Why start a webshop?
Starting a webshop to sell your products or services is a logical step today. With an online store, you expand your reach, are open 24/7, and with excellent tools, you can even realise your dream without technical knowledge. But what should you really invest in to not only start but also succeed?
Did you know that 91% of Dutch consumers made online purchases in 2022? (source: Thuiswinkel.org)
What products will you sell?
From jewellery to handmade soaps or digital downloads: starting a webshop where you offer specific products requires focus. Choose a niche where you excel or have a passion. If everyone else is already selling it, how will you stand out?
Do you need to build up stock?
You can work with stock or opt for dropshipping. With dropshipping, you forward orders directly to a supplier who handles everything. The advantage? No warehouse needed. The disadvantage? Less control over delivery times and quality.
Which webshop software suits you?
This is the foundation of your online store. Do you choose a user-friendly all-in-one solution like Booqdoo or do you try to piece together separate tools? Spoiler alert: the latter often costs more time and frustration.
How much does webshop software cost?
The costs vary. Some platforms seem cheap, but as soon as you want extra features (such as payment options or shipping options), the costs pile up. With Booqdoo, you know exactly what you're getting.
How do you attract visitors to your webshop?
You have the most beautiful products and a fantastic website, but without visitors, a webshop is useless. Here are ways to generate traffic:
- Social media: Post regularly on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok.
- SEO: Make sure your webshop is found on Google using smart keywords, such as 'starting a webshop selling'.
- Newsletters: Build an email list and stay in touch with your customers.
Tip: Customers who return via a newsletter spend an average of 30% more.
What payment methods do you offer?
One thing is for sure: payment must be easy. iDeal, credit card, PayPal, AfterPay… Offer the most common methods so you don't lose customers.
How do you integrate payment methods into your webshop?
With all-in-one systems like Booqdoo, this is often built-in as standard. No hassle with separate contracts with payment providers – you're immediately ready for transactions.
How important is a mobile website?
Very important! More than 50% of online shoppers use their smartphone to make purchases. If your webshop is not mobile-friendly, you'll lose customers before they've even added anything to their shopping cart.
Do you need a VAT number?
Yes. If you want to sell products or services via a webshop, you must have a VAT number. Registration with the Chamber of Commerce is therefore also a must.
What if you're starting small?
Even if you're starting small, such as two jars of homemade jam per month, you are technically obliged to register your webshop with the Chamber of Commerce.
What are the marketing options for your webshop?
Making a webshop successful without marketing is like trying to cook without ingredients. Consider:
- Google Ads: Paid advertisements to appear directly at the top.
- Content marketing: Blogging, creating videos, or sharing infographics.
- Social media advertising: Targeted advertising to your target audience.
How do you prevent returns?
Return costs are a webshop challenge. It starts with clear information about your products. Use clear photos, detailed descriptions, and size charts if you sell clothing. Oh, and: be quick with shipping. Long waits lead to more dissatisfied customers.
Can you exclude returns?
In some cases, yes. For example, digital products or custom-made items are often excluded. Check the legal regulations here – they vary by country.
How important is customer service?
Very important. If things don't work, you'll hear about it. Make sure customers can easily reach you, for example via email or chat. No phone available? As long as you clearly communicate when customers can expect a response, that's fine.
Do you need an FAQ?
Absolutely! A well-stocked FAQ saves you time and makes customers happy. Add answers to frequently asked questions about products, payments, and shipping costs.
Do you need an accounting system?
VAT returns, invoices, inventory management: a webshop brings with it administration. An integrated system like Booqdoo combines your accounting with orders and payments. Handy, right?
Why not use separate tools?
Separate tools are more expensive, time-consuming, and prone to errors. One platform like Booqdoo keeps everything organised.
How do you start your webshop with Booqdoo?
With Booqdoo, you get everything you need to start and manage your webshop in one system:
- Register with the Chamber of Commerce and get a VAT number.
- Choose a domain name via our platform.
- Set up your webshop with our user-friendly tools.
- Start selling and view your turnover directly in your dashboard.
Our demo shows you how easy it is. No surprises, no hidden costs. Just get started.