Alright, let’s get real: If your small business isn’t online yet, or you’re stuck with a clunky ecommerce platform, you're leaving money on the table.
In 2024, ecommerce isn’t just a "nice-to-have" anymore — it’s an absolute must if you want to compete and grow. The good news? There are killer ecommerce platforms out there that make it easier than ever to set up shop and start selling.
But with so many options, how do you choose the right one?
Let's break down the best ecommerce platforms for small businesses to try in 2024, and help you figure out which one is going to take your business to the next level.
Simply put, an ecommerce platform is the foundation of your online store.
It's the software that lets you build your website, list your products, manage inventory, process payments, and handle everything behind the scenes.
Think of it as your digital storefront, and just like you wouldn’t open a physical store without the right space and setup, you shouldn't try selling online without a solid ecommerce platform.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your business, the right platform is your ticket to running an efficient, profitable online business.
In 2024 customers have high expectations. Customers want smooth, fast, and seamless shopping experiences, and small businesses that can’t deliver that are going to get left behind.
An ecommerce platform gives you the power to compete with big brands by making it easy to manage your online store, automate your processes, and reach customers wherever they are — all without needing to be a tech genius.
Bottom line: If you want to grow your business, boost sales, and stay relevant, an ecommerce platform is your best friend this year. Let’s dive into the best ones to help you crush it in 2024.
Shopify is a leading ecommerce platform that’s built specifically for online stores, making it perfect for small businesses looking to quickly launch and scale their ecommerce operations. Known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, Shopify takes care of everything from hosting to payment processing.
Whether you’re selling physical products or digital goods, Shopify’s extensive app marketplace and built-in tools allow you to grow your business with ease.
Shopify offers several pricing plans tailored to different business needs:
Shopify is ideal for small businesses looking for a reliable, all-in-one ecommerce platform that can scale with their growth. With plenty of built-in features and a rich app ecosystem, Shopify is a great choice for businesses serious about selling online.
WooCommerce is the go-to ecommerce solution for small businesses using WordPress. As a free, open-source plugin, WooCommerce offers virtually unlimited flexibility, making it perfect for businesses that want full control over their online store.
It integrates seamlessly with WordPress, allowing you to customize every aspect of your store, from design to functionality, without being tied to specific hosting or rigid plans.
WooCommerce itself is free, but there are costs associated with hosting and additional features:
WooCommerce is a fantastic choice for small businesses that prioritize customization and control. If you’re already using WordPress or want to tailor your online store to specific needs, WooCommerce offers unmatched flexibility.
Square Online stands out as an easy-to-use ecommerce solution for small businesses, especially for those already using Square’s popular point-of-sale (POS) system. With a free plan and a straightforward setup, Square Online is ideal for businesses looking to quickly establish an online presence without the hassle of managing multiple systems.
It seamlessly integrates with Square’s POS, making it perfect for small retailers, restaurants, and service providers.
Square Online has a straightforward pricing structure:
Square Online is a solid choice for small businesses that want a simple, budget-friendly ecommerce solution. It’s especially appealing for those already using Square’s POS system and looking for a seamless way to sell online.