Selling online has become normal for small businesses too. But a successful online store depends more on well-built processes than on design. Find the answers to these questions before you order the site — the project will be ready sooner, and there'll be fewer surprises after launch.
1. How many products will you sell?
20 products and 2,000 products need different solutions. A large catalog needs filters (size, colour, price), search and bulk product upload (from Excel or inventory software). If products will have variants (size, colour), say so in advance — the catalog structure is built around it.
2. How will you take payment?
Online card payments, cash or card on delivery — or both? Online payments need an e-commerce (internet acquiring) agreement with a bank and a technical integration. The bank's document requirements and checks can take a few weeks — start this in parallel with building the site.
3. How will delivery work?
Your own courier, a courier service, or pick-up from the shop? Will prices differ within Baku and in the regions? Free delivery over a certain amount is a proven way to raise the average order value. State delivery times clearly on the site — it's the question buyers ask most.
4. Are your return rules ready?
Clearly written return and exchange terms build buyers' trust and prevent disputes. Spell out within how many days, in what condition, and how and when money is refunded.
5. Who will keep track of stock levels?
A product showing "in stock" on the site but missing from the warehouse is the biggest source of complaints. Decide in advance how stock will be updated: by hand, with an Excel file, or automatically from inventory software.
6. Who will prepare product photos and descriptions?
Good photos and accurate descriptions directly affect sales. This work often takes longer than the site itself. For each product, prepare at least 2–3 photos on the same background and at the same size, plus concrete details like dimensions, material and how to use it. Writing your own descriptions instead of copying the manufacturer's text also gives you an edge in search.
7. How will you find out about orders?
Email, SMS or a Telegram notification — a new order shouldn't sit unanswered for hours. Buyers should also get automatic notifications when their order is received, paid and shipped. Decide who will process orders and during which hours.
8. How will you bring customers to the site?
Opening the store is half the job. Budget for social media, Google ads and search engine optimisation too. In the first months, it's normal for the ad budget to be no less than the cost of the site.
Bonus: the legal and accounting side
Check the tax registration, receipt and reporting requirements for online sales with your accountant in advance. Since the site will collect buyers' details, you'll also need a privacy policy and terms of use ready.
About budget
Building an online store in our catalog starts from 2,500 AZN; we explain what affects the price in How much does a website cost?
If your answers to these questions are ready, take a look at our opening an online store page — let's plan the project together.
