Ecommerce Business Start-Up Checklist - 18 Steps To Launch!

Dreaming of launching your own eCommerce brand? You’ll want a clear start-up checklist to guide you, a roadmap that helps you build momentum from day one and sets you up for long-term success.

With the rapid rise of online shopping, it’s easier than ever to start an eCommerce business. Many consumers now prefer buying online from the comfort of their sofa rather than heading to the high street.

Of course, starting any business is challenging and success takes time. But with the right mindset and preparation, launching an online store can be a fantastic opportunity. This eCommerce business start-up checklist will give you a solid foundation to start strong and stay on track.

1. Set Clear Goals from the Outset

Before you do anything else, define what success looks like for you. Setting clear goals helps give direction and makes it easier to track your progress.

Your goal might be to replace a full-time income, work fewer hours, or build something you can scale and sell. Whatever it is, make it SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound.

I’m a big fan of setting five-year goals and breaking them down into annual and monthly targets. It’s a great way to stay motivated while being practical about what’s achievable.

2. Decide What You’re Going to Sell

What products will your store offer? Your range might evolve over time, but start with a clear idea so you can research the market, identify suppliers, and calculate profit margins.

When I started, I was selling job lots on eBay, splitting them, and listing individual items online. Over time, that evolved into a jewellery brand that shipped to over a dozen countries. I’ve sold everything from wallets to washing lines!

Make sure your pricing includes all costs: shipping, packaging, transaction fees, and overheads, so you’re not running an expensive hobby.

3. Define Your Target Market

Now you’ve chosen your products, decide who your ideal customers are. Trying to appeal to everyone is a sure way to appeal to no one.

Avoid vague niche advice online. Instead, identify real customer segments by researching what people are already looking for and buying. For example, your fused-glass art might appeal to pet lovers rather than just “owners of three-legged donkeys” (unless that’s a surprisingly underserved market!).

As your business grows, you’ll collect real customer data that will help you refine your audience further.

4. Choose a Memorable Business Name

Your business name should be short, punchy, and aligned with what you do. It should also sound distinctive. A chocolate company named Bentley would feel off, just as See’s selling speedboats would confuse people.

Think of names based on personal connections, locations, or unique combinations. My own jewellery business was called James Samson – a blend of my middle name and my mum’s maiden name.

Before settling on a name, check that the domain and social media handles are available.

5. Build a Brand Identity

Branding is more than just a logo, it’s how people feel when they encounter your business. Start by choosing words and emotions you want associated with your brand. Then, pick a typeface and two primary colours that reflect that identity.

Once you’ve got those building blocks, you can develop your logo and other visual elements. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect yet, your brand will evolve over time.

6. Secure a Domain Name

Once you’ve got a name and product concept, you’ll need a domain. Ideally, you’ll get your exact business name as a domain. If it’s taken, consider adding a descriptor (e.g., -shop, -UK, -online) or using hyphens.

Check domain registrars like GoDaddy or Hostinger for available options. Most domains are very affordable, and you can register them in minutes.

7. Apply for Licences and Register the Business

Depending on your location and the products you sell, you may need to register for VAT or obtain business licences. Certain product categories: like food, cosmetics, or health-related items, may also have strict legal requirements.

Speak with a solicitor or accountant if you’re unsure. Having professional support early on can save you major headaches down the road.

8. Build Your eCommerce Website

Your website needs to be clear, attractive, and easy to navigate. Many eCommerce websites suffer from poor design, confusing layouts, and broken links. Don’t fall into that trap.

You can use platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce or work with a web designer. Since you’ve already defined your branding, incorporate it into your site design. Use high-quality images, clear calls to action, and ensure your site loads quickly.

And don’t skip the “About Us” page, it’s a great way to build trust and emotional connection with visitors.

9. Ensure Mobile Responsiveness

More and more consumers are browsing and buying from their phones. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, you’ll lose sales. Ensure your design works across all screen sizes and devices.

10. Add Crucial Website Pages

Some pages often get overlooked but are essential for customer trust and clarity:

• About Us

• Terms & Conditions

• Shipping & Returns Policy

These pages answer common questions, reassure visitors, and reduce customer service queries, not to mention help with legal compliance.

11. Set Up Payment Methods

Make it easy for customers to pay you. Most platforms integrate with trusted providers like PayPal, Stripe, and Shopify Payments. Getting started is typically quick and requires minimal setup.

12. Create a Marketing Strategy & Plan

You don’t need to be a marketing guru. A marketing strategy is simply your high-level approach, your “game plan.” A marketing plan then outlines specific tactics to build visibility and attract customers.

Think about which platforms your audience uses, how you’ll communicate your value, and how you’ll track what’s working.

13. Start Promoting

With your strategy in place, it’s time to spread the word. At first, you may be trying lots of different things to see what works. That’s OK, just keep learning and refining.

In the beginning, do things that don’t scale: speak directly to customers, contact local press, join relevant forums. Make your brand personal and approachable.

14. Stock Inventory

If you’re fulfilling orders yourself, make sure you’ve got enough stock to meet demand. Today’s customers expect fast delivery, and early reviews are critical to your growth, so don’t keep them waiting.

15. Prepare Packaging

Invest in a good range of packaging materials: padded envelopes, sturdy boxes, tape, and labels. You don’t need a warehouse full, but being well-stocked will help you ship quickly and professionally.

16. Plan Postage & Delivery Options

Explore your postal options and pricing. Look at your national postal service as well as third-party couriers. Tools like Royal Mail Click & Drop or courier comparison sites can streamline this process.

Knowing your delivery costs ensures you don’t lose money, and keeps customers happy with timely delivery.

17. Build Systems and Processes

It may seem early to think about automation, but documenting your processes now will save you time later. Whether it’s how you handle returns or schedule social media posts, putting systems in place makes it easier to scale or delegate.

Create checklists and templates to reduce repetition and decision fatigue. Your future self will thank you.

18. Schedule Time Off

This one’s often overlooked. Running a business can be all-consuming, especially in year one. But burnout is real and avoidable.

Book a break, even if it’s just a few days. Step away, recharge, and return with fresh energy. Your business will benefit from it.

Using This Ecommerce Business Start-Up Checklist

Starting an eCommerce business is an exciting adventure, but it’s one that needs structure, patience, and persistence. This checklist will help you start strong, stay organised, and build something sustainable.

Get the foundations right, and you’ll be better placed to grow, adapt, and succeed over the long term.