Thinking about launching an online store? Whether you’re a small business, a startup, or a solo creator, launching an eCommerce website is a big step — and getting it right from day one is key. In this post, we’ll walk you through the essentials you need to have in place before your online store goes live, so you can hit the ground running with confidence and clarity.
Why Getting the Foundations Right Matters
Your eCommerce website isn’t just a storefront — it’s a complete customer experience. Rushing through setup can lead to technical issues, missed sales, and a poor user experience. But with a solid pre-launch checklist, you can avoid the headaches and start strong.
What You Need Before Launching Your Online Store
1. A Clear Product Catalogue
Before anything else, organise your product data:
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Product names, descriptions, and prices
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High-quality images
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Variants (size, colour, etc.)
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Stock levels and SKUs
Pro Tip: Use consistent naming and high-res images to build trust and improve conversion.
2. Payment Gateway Setup
Choose a secure and reliable payment processor (e.g. Stripe, PayPal, Square) and test it thoroughly.
Make sure: Your checkout process is fast, secure, and mobile-friendly.
3. Shipping & Fulfilment Plan
Define your shipping zones, rates, and delivery timeframes. If you’re offering local delivery or click & collect, make it clear.
Bonus: Include estimated delivery times and return policies on product pages.
4. Legal Essentials
Don’t skip this part — every online store needs:
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Terms & Conditions
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Refund & Returns Policy
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Privacy Policy
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Cookie Consent (if applicable)
These pages build trust and help keep your store compliant.
5. SEO & Product Page Optimisation
Make sure each product page includes:
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A clear title
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A short, keyword-rich description
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Alt text for images
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Easy-to-read pricing and CTA buttons
This improves discoverability and user experience.
6. Email & Order Notifications
Set up automated emails for:
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Order confirmations
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Shipping updates
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Abandoned cart reminders
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Welcome and thank-you messages
Why? It builds trust and keeps your customers in the loop post-purchase.
7. Test Everything — Twice
Before launch, test every part of your store:
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Add to cart
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Checkout process
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Mobile responsiveness
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Confirmation emails
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Site speed & usability
Ask friends or colleagues to do a test purchase and report any issues.
Conclusion
Launching an eCommerce website is exciting — but success starts with preparation. With the right tools, setup, and strategy in place, you’ll be ready to welcome your first customers confidently.
At MrTech Melbourne, we specialise in building eCommerce sites that don’t just look good — they work hard. From Shopify to WooCommerce to fully custom builds, we’ve got your back.