Initial setup
Planning, design, domain setup, product import, payment and shipping configuration, and testing before launch.
Guide · Online store costs 2026
How Much Does an Online Store Cost in 2026?
Setting up an online store involves different types of costs. Find out what to budget for setup, operations and support – and which solution fits your business.
Understanding the costs
How much does it cost to have an online store built?
If you want to sell products online, an important first question is whether to build the store yourself or have a professional set it up. There is no universal fixed price. The number of products, design requirements, payment and shipping processes, and necessary integrations all affect the budget.
When comparing offers, do not consider the initial setup price alone. Monthly charges, payment processing fees and your own time are all part of the total cost.
Ongoing operations
Depending on the solution, hosting or platform fees, technical support, maintenance and optional modules may cost extra.
Fees per order
Payment providers often charge transaction-based fees. The amount depends on the provider, payment method and contract.
Additional services
Product photography, copywriting, legal review, marketing, custom integrations and future enhancements may require separate budgets.
Planning your budget
What makes an online store more or less expensive?
- Products and variants: A small catalog is less complex than hundreds of items with sizes, colors or tiered pricing.
- Design: A clear design adapted to your brand typically requires less work than a completely custom interface.
- Checkout and payments: Multiple payment options, tax scenarios and special order processes increase setup work.
- Shipping and administration: Shipping rules, invoices, customer accounts and existing-system integrations should be considered early.
- Extensions: WhatsApp consultation, social media integrations or an AI assistant are optional and can be planned for a later stage.
Tip: Start with a reliable ordering process. Add features when they solve a specific business need.
Compare your options
Build your online store yourself or hire a professional?
Build it yourself
A DIY platform can be a good fit if you have the time to manage design, products, payments, legal pages, shipping rules and technical settings.
Professional setup
A managed setup may be right if you want a contact person, have limited technical time or need workflows tailored to your business.
In either case, clarify who will maintain the store, how changes will be made and what ongoing charges apply.
Practical example
From Instagram and WhatsApp to your own online store
A small boutique posts new products on Instagram. Customers message the business to ask about sizes, prices and delivery. This can work when order volumes are low, but tracking inquiries, payments and orders becomes harder as the business grows.
An online store brings product images, options and ordering together in one structured process. Instagram and WhatsApp can still be used to attract visitors and offer advice.
That reduces unnecessary back-and-forth and helps establish a clear process without abandoning your existing channels.
Our solution
How zekacommerce supports your launch
With zekacommerce by zekahub, you receive an individually configured online store under your own domain and brand. We discuss which functions you need and handle the agreed technical setup.
The scope can include a product catalog, variations, shopping cart, checkout, payment options, and customer and order management. WhatsApp, social media and an AI assistant can be assessed as optional extensions.
Pricing depends on your specific project. Instead of promising a universal rate, we review what you really need and which costs are one-time or recurring.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about online store costs
How much does an online store cost per month?
That depends on the platform, hosting, maintenance, add-on services and payment provider. Ask for recurring charges and transaction-based fees to be shown separately.
Can I run an online store without coding skills?
Yes. With professional setup, you can focus on selling and managing your products and orders. Your responsibilities are agreed on during handover.
Can I use my own domain?
Yes. zekacommerce is configured under your domain and with your branding.
Can I add features later?
zekacommerce is modular. Extensions can be planned according to your business and technical requirements.
What does zekacommerce cost?
We prepare a quote based on your catalog, required functions and support needs. We can discuss this during a free consultation.
What would your online store cost?
Let’s talk about your project, the functions you need and possible next steps – clearly and without obligation.