5 Domain Registration Mistakes for New Shopify Store Owners

Updated 2026-05-13 · Hosting Reviews

Launching a Shopify store is an exciting step for any entrepreneur, but the technical setup can trip you up before you sell a single item. One of the most common areas where new owners lose money or credibility is in how they handle their web address. Avoiding these domain mistakes for shopify store setups will save you headaches, protect your brand, and ensure you look professional from day one.

1. Buying Your Domain in the Wrong Place

It is incredibly tempting to buy your domain directly through Shopify when you sign up. It’s convenient, but it isn't always the most cost-effective route, especially if you want to add professional services later. Many third-party registrars offer lower introductory rates and better bundle packages.

While Shopify handles your website hosting, you do not have to host your domain registration with them. Separating these services can give you more control. For example, Hostinger offers an affordable entry point for domain registration. This allows you to manage your digital identity separately from your ecommerce platform, often making it easier to move platforms in the future without transferring domain records.

2. Skipping a Professional Business Email

Nothing says "I am operating out of my garage" quite like a contact email that ends in @gmail.com or @yahoo.com. If you want customers to trust you with their credit card information, you need to look established. This is why investing in Domain & Business Email services is non-negotiable.

When you register a domain, you should immediately set up a matching email address (like hello@yourstore.com). This builds instant authority. Hostinger makes this process seamless by offering domain and business email bundles. You get a custom email that integrates easily with your phone or computer, usually at a fraction of the cost of other major providers.

3. Choosing a Name That Limits Growth

Another one of the major domain mistakes for shopify store owners is being too specific with the domain name. If you call your store "Best-Blue-Leather-Wallets.com," you are stuck if you later decide to sell brown belts or expand into bags.

Keep your domain name broad enough to allow for pivots. Ideally, pick a brandable name rather than a descriptive keyword-stuffed name. Short, easy to spell, and easy to remember are the golden rules. Avoid using hyphens or numbers, as these often confuse customers and look unprofessional.

4. Ignoring DNS and Connection Basics

If you buy your domain from a company like Hostinger but build your store on Shopify, you have to connect the two. This involves updating your DNS settings, specifically pointing your A records and CNAME records to Shopify.

Many beginners panic here, but it is actually straightforward. It usually involves logging into your domain registrar (like Hostinger), finding the DNS management zone, and pasting in the two records Shopify provides you. If this sounds daunting, Hostinger provides excellent guides and a 24/7 support team to help walk you through it. A fast, reliable DNS setup ensures your customers don't experience lag when clicking your links.

How to Set Up Domain & Business Email the Easy Way

You don't need to be a tech wizard to get this right. Follow these simple steps to get online with a professional image:

1. Search for your name: Use a registrar like Hostinger to check availability. Aim for a .com extension as it is the most recognized.
2. Select the Domain & Business Email bundle: Don't just buy the URL. Add the business email package to your cart.
3. Complete the purchase: Expect to pay roughly $10–$20 per year for the domain and around $1–$5 per month for professional email.
4. Connect to Shopify: Copy the DNS records from your Shopify dashboard and paste them into your Hostinger DNS settings.
5. Configure your email: Log in to your new email dashboard, set up your inbox, and add the account to your phone's mail app.

FAQ

Can I move my domain to Shopify later?

Yes, you can transfer your domain to Shopify at any time. However, keeping your domain with a registrar like Hostinger is often cheaper for renewals gives you access to better email hosting bundles.

Why is my domain renewal price higher than the first year?

Most registrars offer a discounted "introductory rate" for the first year to attract new customers. Renewal rates are standard market prices. Always check the renewal price before buying to avoid sticker shock.

Do I need SSL security if I use Shopify?

Shopify provides SSL certificates for your storefront automatically. However, if you are managing your domain and email through a third party like Hostinger, they also provide robust security features to protect your domain ownership and email data from hijacking.