Everything You Need to Launch Your Shopify Store Successfully
Launching your Shopify store is exciting, but rushing it can cost you sales and credibility. That’s why we’ve created this Shopify store checklist to make sure you’re fully ready before you hit publish.
At Futurmedia, we build Shopify stores that are designed to convert. Whether you’re building yourself or working with an agency, this checklist will help you launch with confidence.
1. Store Setup Essentials
Custom domain connected (e.g. yourbrand.co.uk)
UK tax and shipping rates configured
Legal pages: Privacy Policy, Terms, Refund Policy
Branded email addresses set up
2. Theme and Design
Mobile-optimised theme installed
Logo, colours, and fonts match your brand
Navigation menus are simple and intuitive
Homepage is clean, fast-loading, and visually strong
Need help? Check out our Shopify store build guide.
3. Product Pages
Clear product titles and SEO-friendly meta descriptions
High-quality product images (minimum 2-3 per product)
Compelling product descriptions with benefits and features
Alt text added to all images
4. Payment, Shipping & Tax
Shopify Payments, PayPal, and additional gateways set up
Shipping zones and rates configured (UK, international, if applicable)
VAT properly set up for UK sales
Tested payment process (run a test order)
5. Store Policies and Trust Signals
Privacy Policy, Refund Policy, and Terms of Service are live
Contact page is fully functional
Trust badges displayed on product pages and checkout
Social proof elements like reviews or testimonials added
6. Speed and Mobile Optimisation
Store tested on mobile and tablet
All pages load quickly (aim for under 3 seconds)
Image sizes optimised for fast loading
Navigation and buttons work smoothly on all devices
Check out our Shopify speed optimisation guide for more tips.
7. Analytics and SEO Basics
Google Analytics 4 set up
Google Search Console verified
Sitemap submitted
Meta titles and descriptions written for all key pages
8. Pre-Launch Testing
Test orders placed using real and test payments
All emails (order confirmations, shipping notifications) reviewed
Product filtering and search fully functional
Pop-ups and discount codes tested
FAQs: Shopify Store Launch
Q: What happens if I miss a step?
A: Missing steps can lead to a poor customer experience or failed payments. That’s why our Shopify agency always double-checks this checklist before going live.
Q: Can I update my store after launch?
A: Yes! One of the best things about Shopify is that you can update content, products, and apps anytime, even after launch.
Q: How soon can I launch with a Shopify agency?
A: With Futurmedia’s Shopify experts, most stores can go live within 2-6 weeks, depending on complexity.
Ready to Launch?
If you want your Shopify store launched properly, with no missed steps, book your free Shopify strategy call now.