How to Set up Multiple Domains Under One Shopify Account

Your Shopify store is doing well, and now you're thinking about branching out. Maybe you want to reach new markets, target different customer segments, or create specialized sub-stores for specific products. Expanding your online presence can be a smart move, but you might be wondering how to manage multiple domains within your Shopify account.

Whether you're looking to improve branding, streamline operations, or optimize for international customers, understanding how Shopify multiple domains work is key. Let’s walk through the essentials of setting up and managing multiple domains on Shopify.

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Can You Have Multiple Websites on Shopify?

In short, yes. But there's a twist. Shopify gives you one main domain. Then, you can add up to 10 subdomains in addition to your myshopify.com URL. These would be the same as having different sections in a brick-and-mortar store.

Remember, having multiple domains isn't the same as having multiple Shopify stores under one domain. It's more like having various entrances to the same shop. Each entrance might appeal to different customers, but they're all coming into the same store.

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How to Add a Subdomain to Your Shopify Store

Step 1: Choose Your Subdomain Name

First, decide on the prefix you want to use. This prefix will replace the www in your address.

Format: prefix.yourdomain.com

Examples:

• blog.yourstore.com
• shop.yourstore.com
• A country code like fr.yourstore.com for international markets. (note: “fr” is for France)

Step 2: Configure the DNS Record at Your Registrar

This is an important part and must be done at the website where you manage your domain (like GoDaddy, Namecheap, Google Domains, Cloudflare etc).

1. Log in: Once you’re in, access your domain registrar’s account and head to the DNS (domain name system) settings for your primary domain.
2. Add a New Record: Create a new record using the following details:
   • Type: Select CNAME (Canonical Name Record).
   • Host / Name / Alias: Enter the prefix you chose in step 1 (e.g., enter blog or shop).
   • Points To / Value / Target: Enter the fixed Shopify target address: shops.myshopify.com
   • TTL (Time to Live): You can typically leave this set to its default or choose "Auto."

Save Changes: Save the new CNAME record.

Step 3: Connect the Subdomain in Shopify

Once the DNS record is saved at your registrar, finalize the connection in your Shopify admin:

Log in to your Shopify Admin.

Head to Settings then Domains.

Click the Connect existing domain button.

Type in the Full Subdomain: Type the complete subdomain address (e.g., shop.yourstore.com).

Then, hit Next, and then Verify connection.

Shopify will check for the CNAME record you created. If successful, the status will show as Connected.

» Apart from multiple domains, check out these additional ways to make your Shopify store even better

Build Up Your Store With Minimal Effort

After setting up your domains, you should consider practicing test orders before launch. You can use sample data to visualize your store's layout and functionality.

There are tools available that can automatically add mock products, images, and even simulated orders to your store. This can be helpful for testing purposes or understanding how your store might look when fully stocked.

One such tool is Egnition's Simple Sample Data. It lets you:

• Choose from different sample datasets
• Create test customers and orders
• Easily remove the sample data when you're done

» Want to learn more about this handy app? Check out the following Simple Sample Data review

Generate Sample Data With a Single Click

Generate customers and orders for testing user journeys and flows.

Use Simple Sample Data at no cost as a development store.

Populate your shop with one of three sample datasets.

Learn More

How to Connect Multiple Google Domains:

(In 2023, Google sold "Google Domains" to Squarespace. Expect the interface to be different).

First: Configure DNS Records for Each Domain (Google Domains)

2. Log in to Google Domains: Access your Google Domains account.

3. Select the First Domain: Click on the domain you want to connect to Shopify.

4. Go to DNS: Click the DNS or Manage DNS option in the navigation menu (usually on the left).

5. Edit the A Record:

• Find the record with Type: A and Name: @ (or Host: @).
• Change the Data/Value to Shopify's primary IP address: 23.227.38.65

6. Edit the CNAME Record:

• Find the record with Type: CNAME and Name: www (or Host: www).
• Change the Data/Value to your unique Shopify domain: shops.myshopify.com

7. Save Changes: Click Save (or the equivalent button) to apply the new DNS settings.

Repeat: Repeat steps 2 through 6 for every other Google Domain you wish to connect to your Shopify store.

Connect and verify in Shopify admin: Step 1: Go to Shopify Admin.

Step 2: Head to Settings then Domains.

Step 3: Click Connect existing domain.

Step 4: Enter the full domain name (e.g., yourseconddomain.com).

Step 5: Click Next, then Verify connection.

Repeat: Do this for all the domains you configured in Google Domains.

» Learn how to sync inventory across multiple Shopify stores

Benefits of Having Multiple Domains Under One Shopify Store

Setting up multiple domains and subdomains on Shopify—and testing them—may sound like a lot of work. But it's worth the effort because it helps you:

• Reach new markets: By setting up domains for different countries, you’re essentially creating a local shop in each place, allowing you to expand your customer base and increase visibility.
• Build trust: Using subdomains shows customers that they are still part of your main brand. It creates a familiar, yet tailored experience for different audiences.
• Create special areas: You can create unique sections for VIP customers or specific product lines. This allows you to provide special access or exclusive experiences tailored to specific customer groups.
• Share your knowledge: Starting a blog on a subdomain (e.g., blog.yourstore.com) provides a platform to share your expertise and connect with customers, while also improving SEO and attracting new visitors.
• Try new things: Subdomains offer a great way to test new product lines, marketing campaigns, or features. It’s a low-risk way to experiment and gauge customer interest before fully launching.
• Keep your store organized: Using multiple domains allows you to allocate specific areas of your business to dedicated subdomains, keeping your store organized and making it clearer for customers to navigate.

» Manage your multiple Shopify stores with these strategies

Making the Most of Multiple Domains

To make the most of multiple domains on Shopify, start small and gradually set up your domains. Each subdomain should have a clear purpose, target a specific audience, and cater to their needs. Also, ensure that your branding remains consistent across all domains so customers know it's all part of the same business.

Additionally, before launching a new subdomain, thoroughly test everything to check that it works properly. Click every link and try every feature. Once your domains are live, pay attention to how customers interact with them. You might uncover valuable insights.

Finally, ask for customer feedback on your new domains and use their input to make improvements.

EGNITION Automation Tools

Use Egnition's tools to automate store operations, from inventory to order fulfillment, ensuring a smoother workflow and improved customer experience.

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» Follow these best practices to manage your multiple Shopify stores properly

Expand Your Shopify Presence

Setting up multiple domains on your Shopify account isn’t just a possibility—it’s a powerful strategy for growing your business. It allows you to test new ideas, target new customer segments, and create a more organized shopping experience tailored to different needs.

Start small, test your domains thoroughly, and keep your customers at the center of your strategy. When your domains cater to the specific preferences of your audience, it encourages repeat visits and fosters loyalty. With the right approach, your Shopify store can expand in ways that keep customers coming back. Happy selling!

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