Build Your Dream Online Store with the Best eCommerce Website Builder  

Key highlights  

• Learn how to select a platform that meets your needs, offers scalability and includes essential features. Optimize your eCommerce store with SEO tools, marketing plugins and analytics solutions to boost visibility and sales. 
• Understand the strength of Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution, including ease of use, flexibility and built-in SEO tools. 
• Address common concerns like costs, platform switching and SEO essentials for building a successful online store. 
• From testing platforms to considering long-term business growth, find actionable advice to create and grow your online store. 

Introduction 

Meet Sarah, a small business owner who crafts handmade candles. She started selling through social media, attracting local customers who loved her work. But as her business grew, so did the challenges. Managing orders, payments and customer queries became overwhelming. 

To expand, Sarah needed her own online store. The problem? She wasn’t tech-savvy. Like many new business owners, she wanted a solution that was simple, affordable and didn’t require coding skills. That’s where she came across an online store builder. An online store builder is a platform that helps you create, customize and manage an eCommerce website to sell products or services online. 

It takes the complexity out of creating a professional eCommerce website so anyone can start selling online without stress. Whether you’re selling physical products, digital products or services, the right eCommerce site builder equips you with tools like inventory management and payment gateways to help your online business succeed. 

Let’s explore why and how to build yours! 

Why build a website for your business? 

In 2024, the digital landscape continued to expand rapidly, with approximately 1.1 billion websites worldwide, out of which about 194 million of these are active. This indicates that around 82% are currently inactive. This shows a massive opportunity for businesses to stand out by creating a strong online presence. A website isn’t just a digital address, it’s your storefront, marketing hub and customer service center rolled into one. Here’s why investing in a business website is essential: 

• Expand your reach: An eCommerce website lets you move beyond local customers to a global audience, selling online 24/7. 
• Build trust and credibility: A professional eCommerce store with reviews, secure payments and a custom domain boosts customer trust. 
• Simplify online selling: With an eCommerce website builder, manage inventory, enable smooth checkouts and sell physical or digital products effortlessly. 
• Grow and scale your business: Showcase your brand, attract customers and expand with tools that grow alongside your online business. 
• Boost visibility and engagement: Built-in SEO tools and social media integration drive traffic and connect customers with where they are. 

Step-by-step guide to building your successful online store 

 Step 1: Choose your platform 

Start by selecting the right eCommerce website builder. For instance, while Shopify and Wix are popular options, Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution offers unparalleled scalability for growing businesses and robust customization options, unlike the more rigid frameworks of its competitors. Look for features like easy setup, design flexibility and integrated eCommerce tools to make managing your store simple. 

Feature	Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution	Shopify	Wix
Scalability	High: Supports unlimited products and traffic	Moderate: May require higher-tier plans	Moderate: Limited customization for scaling
Plugin integrations	Extensive: Includes WooCommerce plugins	Limited to Shopify ecosystem	Limited compared to WordPress
Affordability	Cost-effective all-in-one solution	Higher costs for advanced features	Affordable but lacks advanced eCommerce tools
Secure payment options	PayPal, Stripe, and more	Shopify Payments (fees apply)	PayPal and other basic options
Environment	Included for testing changes safely	Not available	Not available

Step 2: Set up your online store 

Once you’ve picked a platform, it’s time to set up your eCommerce store. Begin by adding your products, whether they’re physical products, digital products or services. Include clear descriptions, pricing and appealing images. Enable essential settings like payment options and inventory management to keep everything organized. Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution make this process seamless. With built-in features like secure payment gateways, easy inventory tracking and customizable storefronts, Bluehost simplifies the setup process with features like secure payment gateways (PayPal and Stripe) and staging environments for testing updates without impacting your live store. It also provides scalability. This allows your eCommerce store to grow alongside your business. Whether you’re adding new products, managing shipping options or optimizing for SEO, Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience. 

Step 3: Customize your website 

Every eCommerce website should reflect your brand’s identity. Use the eCommerce site builder to choose a theme, customize layouts and design your store the way you want. Add a custom domain to give it a professional touch. A well-designed site helps you stand out and attract new customers. 

Step 4: Set up shipping and taxes 

Shipping and taxes are critical to a seamless shopping experience. Configure shipping rates, delivery zones and automate tax calculations based on your customers’ location. Efficient eCommerce platforms include tools to simplify these tasks for your online store. 

Step 5: Launch your store and market it 

You’re ready to go live! Publish your eCommerce website and focus on marketing it to your target audience. Promote your online business on social media platforms, run ads and engage with customers to drive traffic. Use analytics to refine your strategy and improve your online sales. 

Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution makes these steps straightforward. It’s a dependable choice for businesses seeking affordable eCommerce solutions, offering all the features you need to set up and grow a successful eCommerce store. Compared to other platforms in an online store builder comparison, Bluehost stands out with its comprehensive eCommerce tools for small businesses. 

Also Read: How To Start an Online Store: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide 

Key features to look for in an eCommerce website builder 

Picking the right eCommerce website builder can make all the difference in creating a sleek, easy-to-navigate online store that represents your brand. It’s not just about building a site; it’s about finding a platform that offers flexibility, scalability and tools to help you grow your online business effortlessly. Here’s a closer look at the must-have features to keep in mind when choosing a website builder for your eCommerce website. 

Customization options 

Your eCommerce website should reflect your brand. Look for a platform with robust customization tools. 

• Platforms like WonderBlocks transform the Gutenberg editor into a powerful eCommerce site builder. 
• WonderBlocks makes it simple to design a unique and professional web store without requiring technical expertise. 
• Ensure you can adjust layouts, colors and fonts to suit your brand’s style. 

With advanced site builders, you can create an eCommerce website that stands out while offering a seamless shopping experience for new customers. 

Built-in SEO tools 

SEO is vital for increasing your store’s visibility and boosting traffic. 

• Tools like Yoast SEO Free and Yoast WooCommerce SEO simplify site optimization for your online store. 
• Yoast Local SEO and Video SEO help you reach local customers and showcase digital products effectively. 
• Better optimization ensures your eCommerce website ranks higher in search results, attracting more visitors. 

These SEO tools reduce the time spent on technical tasks while helping you build a successful online business. 

Payment gateway integration 

Secure and diverse payment gateways are essential for customer trust and higher transaction rates. 

• Platforms supporting PayPal and Stripe offer flexibility to customers. 
• These gateways ensure secure transactions and a smoother checkout process for your online store. 
• They also allow you to cater to a global audience and help customers pay with confidence. 

A reliable eCommerce platform integrates with multiple gateways for a hassle-free payment experience. 

Mobile optimization 

With the majority of online shopping done on smartphones, mobile-friendly design is non-negotiable. 

• Features like YITH WooCommerce Ajax Search improve mobile user experience by offering faster and more accurate search results. 
• Mobile-optimized eCommerce sites ensure that your own eCommerce website runs smoothly on any device. 
• A responsive design not only boosts usability but also enhances SEO rankings. 

Your eCommerce website builder should prioritize mobile compatibility to help you attract and retain customers. 

Scalability and growth potential 

As your eCommerce business grows, your eCommerce platform should grow with it. 

• Plugins like YITH Membership, YITH Subscriptions and YITH WooCommerce Affiliates let you scale easily. 
• Offer subscription-based services, membership plans or affiliate programs to reach new customers. 
• These features open doors for online sales while fostering customer loyalty. 

Investing in a scalable eCommerce solution ensures your store adapts to increasing demands. 

Security features 

Security is a top priority for any online store. A secure environment protects both your store and customer data. 

• Look for staging options to test updates and changes in a duplicate environment. 
• This ensures your live site remains secure and free from performance risks. 
• SSL certificates and secure payment options add an extra layer of protection for your online business. 

A safe and trustworthy eCommerce website builds confidence among store owners and customers alike. 

Advanced eCommerce tools 

The best eCommerce website builder offers tools that simplify operations and enhance customer experience. 

• Abandoned cart recovery helps you re-engage customers who left without completing their purchase. 
• Inventory management ensures you’re never caught off guard by stock levels. 
• Analytics tools track performance, helping you make data-driven decisions to optimize your store. 

These eCommerce features help streamline your workflow and improve your online sales. 

Selling both physical and digital products 

Your eCommerce platform should support the sale of both physical products and digital products. 

• Choose a platform that makes it easy to list, manage and market both types of products. 
• Whether you’re selling downloadable items or tangible goods, ensure smooth transactions and delivery. 

Offering versatile options attracts a wider audience to your online store. 

Flexible pricing and plans 

Not every business has the same needs or budget. Look for platforms offering multiple pricing tiers. 

• Many eCommerce builders provide a free plan or trial for new users to test the waters. 
• Affordable paid plans should include essential features like a custom domain, SEO tools and unlimited product listings. 

Choose a platform with transparent pricing and no hidden fees to manage your monthly fees effectively. 

Marketing and integrations 

Marketing is key to driving traffic to your eCommerce store. Look for eCommerce tools that integrate with popular platforms. 

• Social media integrations help you promote your store on channels where your audience spends time. 
• Google Shopping integration makes it easy to showcase your products directly in search results. 
• Email marketing tools keep customers engaged and updated about new arrivals and promotions. 

Effective marketing features ensure you can start selling online faster and with better results. 

User-friendly interface 

A simple and intuitive interface makes managing your eCommerce website easier. 

• Look for drag-and-drop site builders that don’t require coding skills. 
• Platforms with a user-friendly interface save time and make managing your store stress-free. 

Ease of use is especially crucial for new business owners looking to start selling quickly. 

Support for existing WordPress sites 

If you’re already a WordPress user, consider platforms that integrate seamlessly with your WordPress site. 

• Plugins like Yoast and WooCommerce transform a basic WordPress site into a full-fledged eCommerce site builder. 
• WordPress plugins make it easy to manage everything from inventory to marketing. 

This option is ideal for those transitioning from a blog or informational site to an eCommerce business. 

Picking the right eCommerce website builder can make all the difference when it comes to setting up a successful online store. Platforms like Bluehost, Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, BigCommerce, Shift4Shop and Square Online offer tailored solutions to meet diverse business needs. The right platform doesn’t just help you get started. It makes it simple to start selling online and gives you the tools to grow your business with confidence. Here are some of the best eCommerce website builders to help you bring your ideas to life. 

Also Read: How to Build Your eCommerce Website on WordPress 

Benefits of using a website builder  

Save time and effort 

A website builder lets you create your eCommerce website quickly. You don’t need coding or design skills. It offers pre-built templates and drag-and-drop tools. These allow you to set up your eCommerce store with minimal effort. 

Cost-effective solutions 

Hiring developers can be costly. With a website builder, you save money. Many builders offer free plans or affordable paid plans. You can build your own online store without stretching your budget. 

Easy customization options 

The best eCommerce website builder gives you tools to customize your site. You can add your brand logo, choose your colors and adjust layouts. This helps your online store stand out. 

Built-in eCommerce tools 

A reliable eCommerce platform comes with built-in eCommerce tools. Features like inventory management, shipping options and payment gateways streamline operations. This makes managing your eCommerce business easier. 

Built-in SEO tools 

Many eCommerce site builders include built-in SEO tools. These help your site rank higher on search engines. Better SEO means more traffic and new customers. 

Sell physical or digital products 

Whether you’re selling physical products or digital products, a website builder supports both. You can list, manage and sell products seamlessly on your eCommerce store. 

Integration with social media platforms 

Most eCommerce website builders integrate with social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. You can promote your products easily and reach more new customers. 

Secure and easy payment gateways 

The best eCommerce websites offer secure payment gateways. This ensures customers can pay safely and builds trust. 

Mobile-friendly designs 

A good eCommerce platform ensures your site is mobile-friendly. Your eCommerce store will look great on phones, tablets and desktops. 

Abandoned cart recovery 

Some eCommerce tools include abandoned cart recovery. This feature re-engages customers who didn’t complete their purchase. It is one of the ways that help boost online sales. 

Manage unlimited products 

The right eCommerce site builder allows you to list unlimited products. Whether you sell a handful or hundreds of items, it scales as your eCommerce business grows 

Advanced tips for growing your online store 

Building a great eCommerce website is just the beginning. To truly succeed in your online business, you need to focus on strategies that can drive traffic, boost sales and create a loyal customer base. Let’s dive into some advanced tips to help you take your eCommerce store to the next level. 

Expanding your marketing reach 

Marketing is the heartbeat of a successful online business. To grow your audience and encourage repeat purchases, focus on creating smart marketing strategies. 

Incorporate tools like YITH WooCommerce Affiliates to build an affiliate program. This allows influencers or satisfied customers to promote your products in exchange for a commission, helping you start selling online faster. 

For email marketing, CreativeMail Email Marketing is a simple yet effective way to reach your customers. You can send personalized messages, offer exclusive deals or keep your audience informed about new arrivals. 

Loyalty programs are another great way to keep customers coming back. Use YITH Points & Rewards to incentivize repeat purchases. Customers earn points for every purchase, which they can redeem for discounts, fostering long-term loyalty. These strategies don’t just help you sell online, they make customers feel valued and connected to your brand. 

Tracking and analytics 

Data is your best friend when it comes to improving your eCommerce business. Keeping tabs on customer behavior and sales trends can provide insights that drive smarter decisions. 

Use Jetpack CRM to organize and track customer data. It helps you understand buying patterns, preferences and customer feedback, all of which are essential for personalizing your shopping experience. 

For a deeper dive into your eCommerce store’s performance, Ecomdash Reporting can be a game-changer. This tool lets you monitor sales across multiple channels, streamlining order management while giving you an overview of your store’s health. Whether you’re selling on your own online store or across platforms like Google Shopping, these insights are invaluable. 

How to choose the best eCommerce website builder for your business 

Selecting the best eCommerce website builder can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your online business, choosing the right eCommerce platform is critical. The following pointers will help you make an informed decision by focusing on your needs, testing platforms and considering long-term goals. 

Assess your needs 

Before diving into the world of eCommerce site builders, it’s essential to know what you need for your eCommerce store. 

Understand your business model 

Are you selling physical products, digital products or services? A platform suited for selling physical products might have different requirements than one for selling services. 

List the must-have features  

If you’re planning to start selling online, look for eCommerce features like inventory management, multiple payment gateways and abandoned cart recovery. Store owners often benefit from tools like built-in SEO tools for better visibility and checkout customization for a seamless shopping experience. 

Consider your scalability  

If you’re planning to grow your online store, ensure the platform supports an unlimited number of products and has the capacity to handle increased traffic and sales. 

Evaluate design and customization needs 

Your own eCommerce website should reflect your brand. Opt for a website builder that offers pre-designed templates and flexibility for customizations. Platforms like WordPress with WordPress plugins can be helpful if you’re working on an existing WordPress site. 

Set a budget that works for you 

Many eCommerce site builders offer a free plan to get started. However, upgrading to paid plans might unlock advanced tools. Always consider the monthly fees and long-term costs. 

Test different platforms 

Once you know your needs, it’s time to test some of the best eCommerce website builders available. 

Start with free trials 

Most platforms, like Square Online and Shopify, offer trials that allow you to explore their features. Use this opportunity to check how user-friendly their interface is and whether their tools align with your needs. 

Check for integrations  

A good eCommerce platform should seamlessly integrate with social media platforms, Google Shopping and email marketing tools. If you plan to sell across multiple channels, platforms with built-in analytics tools can help track sales performance. 

Review payment options  

Ensure the platform supports popular methods like PayPal and Stripe and credit card payments. Customers should be able to pay conveniently, regardless of their location or preferred method. 

Evaluate customer support  

Starting an online business can be tricky. Choose a platform that provides reliable support, whether it’s through live chat, email or phone. 

Test site performance  

Load speed and responsiveness matter for any online store. A slow website can drive potential customers away. Make sure your chosen eCommerce solution performs well across devices. 

Think beyond today 

Choosing a full eCommerce solution isn’t just about your current needs. Think about how your online store will evolve over time. 

Custom domain options  

Having your own domain adds credibility to your brand. Most eCommerce platforms offer a custom domain with their paid plans. 

Community and updates 

Platforms like WordPress have active user communities that provide constant updates and new features. This ensures your eCommerce website stays secure and up-to-date with trends. 

Additional features  

Tools like print shipping labels, loyalty programs and marketing integrations can make a significant difference. These eCommerce features are great for keeping your own store efficient and customer-friendly. 

Ongoing costs 

Factor in not just the monthly fees but also additional costs for plugins, premium themes and third-party apps. 

Final thoughts 

Deciding on the best eCommerce website builder must match your business needs and style, much like choosing the ideal pair of shoes. The correct platform is essential whether you’re just getting started with online sales or growing your eCommerce business. For a seamless experience, we offer Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution for building and scaling your online store. 

Focus on what matters such as ease of use and payment gateways. Explore Bluehost’s eCommerce hosting solutions today and experience the benefits of a platform designed for growth. Test out free plans, compare site builders and see why Bluehost is the smarter choice for businesses ready to scale their online presence. 

At the end of the day, your online store should reflect your vision and make shopping a breeze for your customers. So, roll up your sleeves, pick the best tools and build an eCommerce website that’s as irresistible as a buy-one-get-one sale! Happy selling! 

Also Read: Supercharge Your Online Store with Bluehost WordPress Commerce Solution 

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