How to Setup and Sell CBD on Shopify in the U.S.

It seems everything and everybody today is embracing the digital world and its potential for further growth. U.S. merchants hoping to sell CBD are no different. If you’re one of the many trying to learn how to set up your Shopify store to sell products containing cannabidiol (CBD), look no further. The following information and tips will help you get started and successfully set up your store.

What is Hemp?

First, what are hemp and hemp-derived products? In short, hemp is a type of plant in the cannabis sativa plant species. It produces a broad range of cannabinoids, but does not produce high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, it is capable of producing high concentrations of CBD. Over the past few years, these products have gained massive popularity for their versatile medical benefits and pain management qualities.

Understanding U.S. Laws

Before you get started, make sure you fully understand the laws in the U.S. surrounding hemp and hemp-derived products. These laws are ever-changing, so it’s important to consult with legal counsel before you take that next step and list your products on Shopify. Review – and continue to monitor – federal, state, local laws and updates from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as you pursue your venture. 

How to Set Up Your Store

Once you understand the ins and outs of running this type of business, the next step is to set up your CBD Shopify store.

1. Login to your Shopify store or, if you haven’t created one yet, sign up for a free trial store.

2. Review and submit the Attestation for the Sale of Hemp and Hemp-Derived Products. Keep in mind you must be signed into your Shopify account as the store owner to complete this form.

3. Research, choose and then apply for a third-party payment gateway. Shopify Payments is not currently available for hemp or CBD products, so you will need to reach out to a third-party. For example, Shopify has partnered with DigiPay, Pinwheel and Authorize.net gateways.

4. Make sure you activate email-only customer notifications for orders and shipping. At this time, you can only send notifications related to CBD products and shops via email. So make sure you disable customer’s SMS notifications.

Of course, there may be other steps you need to add and follow – this may not be an exhaustive list for each situation. And it may even change over time. For now, following these steps will help you set up your online home for your CBD products, reach your target audience and build a loyal following of satisfied customers.

Content crafter Alex Wilmont has been active in the payments industry for over 15 years. He lives simply, gives generously and loves his 2 dogs. His mission is to enhance and innovate the fintech industry for years to come.