Cancelling your Shopify account is a significant decision that can impact your business in various ways. Before you proceed, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure a smooth transition and avoid potential pitfalls. This guide will cover ten essential things to consider before cancel Shopify subscription account, helping you make an informed decision and prepare adequately for the change.
Evaluate Your Reasons for Cancelling
Understand Your Motivations
Start by understanding why you want to cancel your Shopify account. Common reasons include business closure, switching to another platform, or reducing costs. Clearly identifying your motivations will help you decide whether cancellation is the best option or if there are alternative solutions.
Consider Alternatives
Before cancelling, explore alternatives such as downgrading your plan, pausing your store, or addressing specific issues with Shopify support. Sometimes, a minor adjustment can resolve your concerns without the need to cancel your account entirely.
Backup Your Data
Export Your Store Data
Before cancelling your account, ensure you back up all your store data, including products, customer information, order history, and financial records. This data is crucial for future reference or if you decide to migrate to another platform.
Use Backup Tools
Shopify offers various apps and tools to help you export and back up your data. Make use of these tools to ensure you have a comprehensive backup of your store information.
Fulfill or Refund Pending Orders
Manage Outstanding Orders
Make sure all pending orders are fulfilled or refunded before cancelling your account. This will prevent customer dissatisfaction and potential disputes.
Communicate with Customers
Inform your customers about the status of their orders and provide them with contact information for any inquiries. Clear communication will help maintain a positive relationship with your customers.
Cancel Third-Party Apps and Services
Review Subscriptions
Review all third-party apps and services linked to your Shopify account. Cancel any subscriptions to avoid additional charges after your account is cancelled.
Notify Service Providers
Notify third-party service providers about your decision to cancel your Shopify account. This ensures that they stop billing you and can assist with any necessary transitions.
Manage Your Domain
Decide on Domain Management
If you have a custom domain linked to your Shopify store, decide whether you want to transfer it to another provider or let it expire. This decision will affect your online presence and how customers find you.
Transfer Process
If you choose to transfer your domain, follow the necessary steps to transfer it to a new hosting provider. This may involve unlocking the domain and obtaining an authorization code.
Consider Financial Implications
Review Billing Cycle
Check your billing cycle and ensure you are cancelling your account at the right time to avoid unnecessary charges. Shopify charges on a monthly basis, so timing your cancellation can save you money.
Settle Outstanding Balances
Make sure all outstanding balances are settled before cancelling your account. This includes any fees for third-party apps, domains, or other services.
Inform Your Team
Communicate with Staff
Inform your team about your decision to cancel the Shopify account. This will help them prepare for the transition and address any concerns they may have.
Assign Tasks
Delegate tasks such as data backup, customer communication, and order fulfilment to ensure a smooth cancellation process. Having a clear plan will make the transition easier for everyone involved.
Notify Your Customers
Send Out Notifications
Notify your customers about the impending closure of your Shopify store. Provide them with information about pending orders, refunds, and how they can contact you in the future.
Update Contact Information
Ensure that your customers have updated contact information for any inquiries or support they may need after your store is closed.
Review Shopify's Cancellation Policy
Understand the Terms
Review Shopify’s cancellation policy to understand the terms and conditions associated with cancelling your account. This includes information on refunds, data retention, and account reactivation.
Contact Support
If you have any questions or concerns about the cancellation process, contact Shopify support for assistance. They can provide guidance and help you navigate the process.
Plan for the Future
Consider Future Needs
Think about your future needs and how cancelling your Shopify account will impact your business. Whether you are switching platforms or closing your business, having a clear plan will help you move forward effectively.
Evaluate New Platforms
If you plan to switch to a new e-commerce platform, evaluate your options carefully. Consider factors such as cost, features, and ease of migration to ensure the new platform meets your needs.
Conclusion
Cancelling your Shopify subscription account is a major decision that requires careful consideration and preparation. By evaluating your reasons for cancelling, backing up your data, fulfilling pending orders, and managing third-party services, you can ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, informing your team and customers, understanding the financial implications, and reviewing Shopify’s cancellation policy will help you navigate the process effectively. Finally, planning for the future and evaluating new platforms will ensure that your business continues to thrive even after cancelling your Shopify account. If you have any doubts or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Shopify support for guidance.
