Are you a technophobe but still wish to make a website? And, you are low on budget too ☹
Scroll down, we have something for you.
In a world that's rapidly changing, eCommerce has become a crucial component of modern business.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made one thing crystal clear - having an online presence is no longer an option, it's a necessity. E-commerce websites offer an incredible opportunity to boost brand visibility, attract new customers, and drive sales.
But let's face it, creating an eCommerce website from scratch can be overwhelming, especially for small businesses on a tight budget. Luckily, there are free eCommerce website builders out there that can help even the smallest of businesses establish an online presence.
In this blog, we'll explore the best eCommerce website builders that will empower d2c brands to get online with confidence and ease – and, as promised, they would be as inexpensive as a shoestring!
Factors you should consider before choosing an eCommerce website builder
1. Ease of use
It should be easy to use and navigate, with a user-friendly interface that allows you to customize your store without requiring coding skills.
2. Features and functionalities
Look for a builder that offers the features and functionalities you need for your business, such as payment gateways, shipping options, product categories, and customer support.
3. Templates and customization
Check the templates and customization options available with the eCommerce website builder. Ensure that you can choose a design that suits your business branding and customize it to your liking.
4. Integration options
It must offer integrations with third-party tools such as marketing automation, social media, and email marketing platforms, to help you grow your business.
5. Scalability
Consider your future growth plans and ensure that they can accommodate your business needs as it grows.
6. Pricing
Choosing a builder is also depended on your budget as it must offer pricing plans that fit your budget, with no hidden costs or fees.
7. Security
It should have robust security measures in place to protect your customers' data and financial information.
Free E-commerce Website Builders
1. Wix
Wix is one of the most popular website builders for eCommerce website development. In fact, according to Statista, Wix accounted for 43% of the market share which makes it the leading website builder in 2023. The platform is known for its ease of use and offers a range of templates that are designed to make the website-building process as simple as possible. Wix also offers a range of customization options, including the ability to add custom code to the website.
It also offers a range of eCommerce features, including the ability to manage inventory, process payments, and track orders. With a range of marketing features, it has the ability to create and send email campaigns with SEO tools that can help businesses optimize their website to rank higher on search engines.
2. Squarespace
Squarespace, being the second most popular website-building platform, is an excellent choice for small businesses that want to create a professional-looking website without any technical knowledge. The platform offers a variety of templates, including eCommerce-specific templates that are designed to showcase products effectively. The platform also offers a range of customization options, including the ability to add custom code to the website.
One of the best features of Squarespace is its all-in-one platform. With Squarespace, businesses can host their website, register a domain, and even set up email marketing campaigns. It also offers a range of eCommerce features, including the ability to manage inventory, process payments, and track orders.
3. Square Online
Square Online is an eCommerce platform that allows businesses to create an online store quickly and easily. The platform is designed for small businesses and offers a range of features that make it an excellent choice for eCommerce website development. One of the best things about Square Online is its simplicity. The platform is easy to use and offers a range of templates that are designed to make the website-building process as simple as possible.
Square Online also offers a range of eCommerce features, including the ability to manage inventory, process payments, and track orders. The platform also offers a range of marketing features, including the ability to create and send email campaigns.
4. Weebly
Weebly, with a market share of 9.88%, is another good option for eCommerce website development. The platform offers a range of templates, including eCommerce-specific templates that are designed to showcase products effectively. Weebly also offers a range of customization options, including the ability to add custom code to the website.
One of the best things about Weebly is its ease of use. The platform is designed to be user-friendly and offers a range of features that make it easy to create a professional-looking website. Weebly also offers a range of eCommerce features, including the ability to manage inventory, process payments, and track orders.
5. Ecwid
Ecwid is an eCommerce platform that allows businesses to create an online store quickly and easily. This platform is also designed for small businesses and one of the best things is its simplicity.
Ecwid also offers a range of eCommerce features, including the ability to manage inventory, process payments, and track orders. The platform also offers a range of marketing features, including the ability to create and send email campaigns.
6. BigCommerce
BigCommerce is another free eCommerce website builder platform suitable for small d2c brands and is one of the best things for someone looking for flexibility. The platform offers a range of customization options, including the ability to add custom code to the website.
BigCommerce also offers a range of eCommerce features, including the ability to manage inventory, process payments, and track orders. The platform also offers a range of marketing features, including the ability to create and send email campaigns. BigCommerce consultants can also help businesses optimize their eCommerce websites to increase sales.
7. Shopify
Last but not the least, Shopify, is a popular eCommerce platform that is known for its robust features and ease of use. The platform offers a range of templates that are designed to showcase products effectively. Shopify also offers a range of customization options, including the ability to add custom code to the website.
Just like the previously mentioned platforms, Shopify also offers inventory management, processing payments, tracking orders, ability to create and send email campaigns.
Additionally, Shopify offers a range of integrations with third-party apps that can help businesses streamline their eCommerce operations.
Major Benefits
Now, since you know, what is what, we would like to make it simpler for you as you will read the major benefits each one of these eCommerce website builders has to offer.
Squarespace: Offers a range of templates and customization options, as well as features like inventory management and social media integration.
Square Online: Integrates with Square's payment system and offers a range of features for eCommerce businesses, including inventory management, order fulfillment, and shipping options.
Weebly: Offers an easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface, a range of templates and customization options, and features like inventory management, tax and shipping calculators, and marketing tools.
Ecwid: Offers a range of features for eCommerce businesses, including shopping cart integration, payment options, and customizable design templates.
BigCommerce: Offers a range of features for eCommerce businesses, including payment processing, shipping and tax management, and customizable design templates. BigCommerce consultants can also provide additional support and guidance.
Wix: Offers a range of templates and customization options, as well as eCommerce features like inventory management, payment processing, and marketing tools.
Shopify: Offers a range of templates and customization options, as well as features like inventory management, payment processing, and marketing tools. Shopify also has a large community of third-party app developers, offering a wide range of integrations and additional features.
The eCommerce website builders in a glimpse
Before making any purchasing decision, we know how users analyze different options one-on-one. We have therefore taken care of this and chose rating, pricing plans, free trial period, and drag and drop feature as a basis of differentiation.
Note that the prices and features may vary based on the plan you choose and the region you are in.
Conclusion
In conclusion, eCommerce website development is essential for small businesses looking to increase their online presence and drive sales. Fortunately, there are several free eCommerce website builders available that can help small businesses get online without breaking the bank. Squarespace, Square Online, Weebly, Ecwid, BigCommerce, Wix, and Shopify are some of the best free eCommerce website builders available in 2023. With the right builder, D2C brands can create a professional-looking website that is optimized for sales and growth.
However, if at any point in time, you feel like this is too overwhelming, you can get in touch with an eCommerce website development company like Design Process for more expert assistance.
FAQs
What is a free eCommerce website builder?
A free eCommerce website builder is a tool that allows you to create a website without any coding knowledge. Website builders typically use drag-and-drop interfaces and customizable templates, making it easy to create a professional-looking website quickly and efficiently.
How much does an eCommerce website builder cost?
The cost of a website builder varies depending on the platform you choose and the features you need. Some website builders offer free plans, while others charge a monthly subscription fee. Additional costs may include add-ons and integrations, as well as transaction fees or processing fees associated with payment processing.
Do I need an eCommerce site to sell online?
No, you don't necessarily need an eCommerce site to sell online. You can use online marketplaces like Amazon, Etsy, or eBay to sell your products. However, an eCommerce site gives you more control over your brand, customer data, and sales process, making it a better option for businesses that want to establish their online presence.
How do I build an eCommerce website?
To build an eCommerce website, you can use an eCommerce website builder like the ones mentioned in this blog post. These website builders provide templates, drag-and-drop interfaces, and eCommerce features like product listings, shopping carts, and payment processing. You can also hire a d2c development company or eCommerce website development company to create a custom eCommerce website for your business.