Selling online lets a Bahamian business take orders around the clock, reach customers on every island and cut down on phone calls and messages. Getting started is easier when you know the main steps in the right order.
1. Decide what and how you will sell
Start with the basics:
- Which products will you sell online first?
- Will customers pick up, or will you deliver?
- Which islands will you serve, and how will you get orders to them?
You do not need to put everything online at once. Many businesses launch with their best sellers and add more once the process runs smoothly.
2. Choose your platform
For most small and medium businesses, WordPress with WooCommerce is a strong choice. You own your site, it handles large catalogues, and it can connect to local payment gateways. Platforms like Shopify can also work well, depending on your needs. The right choice depends on your products, budget and how much control you want.
3. Plan for card payments early
This is the step that catches most businesses off guard. To accept card payments online, you need a merchant account approved by your bank, and your website must meet the bank’s requirements, such as clear policies and secure checkout.
Start this process early, because approval can take time. In the meantime, options such as bank transfer can let you start taking orders.
4. Prepare your product information
Good product pages sell. For each product you need:
- Clear photos, ideally on a plain background
- A short, honest description
- Price, sizes or options, and stock levels
- Delivery or pickup details
5. Write your store policies
Customers want to know what happens if something goes wrong. Write clear policies for delivery, returns, refunds and privacy. Banks often ask to see them, too.
6. Test before you launch
Place a few real test orders from your phone. Check the confirmation emails, the payment, and how the order reaches you. Fix anything confusing before customers see it.
7. Launch and tell people
Share your store on social media, add the link to your Google Business Profile and WhatsApp, and let existing customers know they can now order online.
Need help getting started?
First Glance Bahamas builds online stores for Bahamian businesses, including payment setup with local banks, ordering systems and delivery options. Tell us about your store and we will help you plan the next step.
