Two Options To Get A Custom Domain For Your Printify Popup Store

Printify’s Pop-Up Store is a fantastic platform for budding entrepreneurs who want to explore the world of print-on-demand without the hassle of managing inventory.

However, one significant limitation remains the inability to use a custom domain name. The store URL will always follow the format [store-name].printify.me. This restriction can hinder those seeking to build an online robust and unique brand presence. But all is not lost. There are viable options available to work around this limitation. Here are two prominent strategies sellers can adopt.

Option 1: Creating a Full E-commerce Site

One robust solution to bypass the custom domain limitation is to create a full-fledged e-commerce site on platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or BigCommerce and integrate Printify as a fulfillment provider.

Why Choose This Option?

1. Branding Control: With a custom e-commerce site, you have complete control over your branding. Every aspect can be tailored to reflect your brand identity, from the domain name to the website design.
2. SEO Advantages: Custom domains and dedicated e-commerce sites offer better SEO capabilities. This means higher visibility on search engines, which can drive more organic traffic to your store.
3. Extended Features: Platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce offer a plethora of plugins and features that can enhance the functionality of your store, from advanced analytics to marketing tools.

Steps to Implement

1. Choose a Platform: Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, or your preferred e-commerce platform. Each has pros and cons, so choose based on your specific needs and budget.
2. Set Up Your Store: Follow the platform’s setup process to create your online store. This includes choosing a theme, adding products, and setting up payment and shipping options.
3. Integrate Printify: Use the Printify integration available on these platforms to link your store with Printify for order fulfillment. This integration ensures that when a customer places an order, Printify handles the printing and shipping.

Costs Involved

While this option offers extensive benefits, it does come with higher setup and maintenance costs. Hosting, domain registration, and platform subscription fees can add up. However, the investment can be worthwhile for those looking to establish a solid online presence and scale their business.

Option 2: Buying a Custom Domain and Forwarding It to Your Printify Store

Buying a custom domain and forwarding it to your Printify store is a practical alternative for those wanting a more straightforward and cost-effective solution.

Why Choose This Option?

1. Cost-Effective: Domain forwarding is significantly cheaper than setting up an entire e-commerce site. You only need to purchase a domain name, which can be pretty affordable.
2. Easy Setup: The process of domain forwarding is straightforward and doesn’t require technical expertise. Most domain registrars provide simple steps to forward your domain.
3. Future Flexibility: If you decide to transition to an entire e-commerce site in the future, you can use the same domain. This ensures continuity in your branding and avoids the hassle of changing URLs.

Example in Action

An excellent example of this strategy is the Instagram account Exmorobo. This user has purchased a custom domain and forwarded it to their Printify store, creating a cleaner, more professional look for their online presence.

Steps to Implement

1. Purchase a Domain: Buy a domain name from a registrar like GoDaddy, Namecheap, or Link. Store. Look for a name that aligns with your brand and is easy to remember.
2. Set Up Domain Forwarding: Log into your domain registrar account. The domain forwarding settings are often found in the 301 redirect tab. Enter your Printify store URL as the destination. This will redirect anyone who types in your custom domain to your Printify store.
3. Update Branding: Use your custom domain in all your marketing materials, social media profiles, and business cards to maintain a consistent brand identity.

Costs Involved

The primary cost here is the domain registration fee, ranging from a few dollars to around $50 per year, depending on the registrar and the domain’s popularity. No additional hosting or platform fees exist, making this a budget-friendly option.

Getting Started for Free with Link.Store

For those looking to get started without any initial investment, Link.Store provides an excellent solution. Link.Store allows users to claim free branded links for their Printify store, making it an ideal starting point for beginners.

Why Choose Link. Store?

1. No Cost: Unlike other domain registrars, Link. The store offers free branded links, so you can start promoting your Printify store without spending a dime on domain registration.
2. Easy Setup: The process of claiming a free branded link on Link. The store is simple and user-friendly. You don’t need any technical expertise to get started.
3. Professional Appearance: Using a branded link from Link. Store enhances the professional look of your Printify store, making it more appealing to potential customers.

How to Get Started

1. Visit Link. Store: Go to Link.Store and sign up for a free account.
2. Claim Your Branded Link: Follow the prompts to claim your free branded link. Choose a name that aligns with your brand and is easy to remember.
3. Set Up Forwarding: Once you have your branded link, set it to forward to your Printify store URL. This will ensure that anyone clicking your branded link is directed to your Printify store.
4. Update Your Branding: Use your new branded link in all your marketing materials, social media profiles, and business cards to maintain a consistent and professional brand identity.

Advantages of Link.Store

• Zero Cost: Save money on domain registration fees.
• Quick Setup: Get your branded link up and running in minutes.
• Brand Continuity: Maintain a consistent brand presence with a professional-looking link.

Conclusion

While the inability to use custom domains directly with Printify Pop-Up Stores is a limitation, it doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker by creating an entire e-commerce site and integrating Printify, buying and forwarding a custom domain, or leveraging free branded links from Link. Store sellers can maintain control over their branding and improve their online presence.

Option 1 is ideal for those with a higher budget and who desire extensive customization and SEO benefits. Option 2 provides a cost-effective and straightforward solution for those just starting out or working with a limited budget. Link. The store offers an excellent free starting point for those who want to begin without any initial investment.

Regardless of the path chosen, these options enable sellers to establish a professional and memorable online store, paving the way for business growth and success. Start by evaluating your budget and business goals to determine the best approach for your print-on-demand venture. Happy selling!