Starting on Etsy is a natural first step for makers and creative entrepreneurs. It’s simple, affordable, and gives you instant access to a marketplace of millions. But as your shop grows, Etsy’s limits may start holding you back. That’s when Shopify becomes the next stage — a platform built for scaling, branding, and full control.
In this post, we’ll explore the key signs that it may be time to move your business from Etsy to Shopify (or run both in tandem).
1. You’re Ready to Build a Brand Beyond Etsy
On Etsy, your shop always lives under the Etsy umbrella. Customers may remember “Etsy” more than your business name. With Shopify, you own your domain, your store design, and your customer experience — giving you the chance to stand out as a brand.
2. Your Fees Are Adding Up (EEK!)
Etsy’s listing fees, transaction fees, and payment processing charges can cut into your profits as you grow. Shopify has a monthly subscription fee, but often ends up more cost-effective once your sales volume reaches a certain point.
3. You Want More Control Over Marketing
Etsy’s algorithm decides how much visibility your products get. On Shopify, you’re in charge of SEO, email marketing, paid ads, and integrations with platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. If you’re ready to actively grow your audience, Shopify gives you the tools.
4. You Need Advanced Features
Features like subscriptions, product bundles, custom checkout, or wholesale pricing aren’t available on Etsy. Shopify’s app ecosystem allows you to tailor your store to your exact needs.
5. You’re Building for the Long Term
Etsy is a marketplace — and you’re playing by their rules. If their policies change (or your shop gets flagged), your income can be at risk. Shopify gives you stability, ownership, and scalability.
Should You Leave Etsy Completely?
Not necessarily. Many sellers keep Etsy as a discovery platform while building their main shop on Shopify. This hybrid approach lets you reach Etsy’s audience but build long-term sustainability on your own site.
Soooo... Is This for You?
If you’ve noticed these signs — brand limitations, high fees, lack of control, and limited features — it may be time to move to Shopify. Whether you fully transition or use both platforms, Shopify is designed to help you grow from hobby shop to full-scale business.
FAQs
Should I close my Etsy shop if I move to Shopify?
Not necessarily. Many sellers keep Etsy for exposure while building Shopify as their main storefront.
Is Shopify more expensive than Etsy?
Shopify has a monthly fee, but once your sales volume grows, the lower transaction fees often make it more cost-effective than Etsy.
Can I migrate my Etsy listings to Shopify?
Yes — you can export your Etsy products and import them into Shopify with tools or apps, making the transition smoother.
Do I need technical skills to run Shopify?
No — Shopify is beginner-friendly with drag-and-drop editing. For custom design or features, you can work with a Shopify expert.
What if I’m not ready to leave Etsy yet?
You can start Shopify alongside Etsy and gradually shift traffic to your own store as you grow.
Keep Reading
More posts to help you launch launch, grow, and thrive online.
🌷 Boost Your Shopify SEO: Fix Blank Collection Descriptions with ChatGPT
🌷 5 Things You Don’t Need to Launch Your Shopify Store — Use ChatGPT to Help