How to Create a BigCommerce Trial Store: A Step-by-Step Guide

In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about where and how to create a BigCommerce trial store, and what you can expect from the trial experience.

What is a BigCommerce Trial Store?

A BigCommerce trial store allows you to explore the platform’s features without committing to a paid plan. This trial is fully functional, giving you the freedom to set up products, customize your store’s design, test different features, and experience how BigCommerce works in real time. The free trial lasts for 15 days, which provides ample time to evaluate the platform’s strengths and determine if it meets your business requirements.

How to Create a BigCommerce Trial Store? Step-by-Step Process

Creating a trial store on BigCommerce is simple and can be done through a few steps directly on the BigCommerce website. Below are the ways to start your free trial:

1. BigCommerce Official Website

The primary and most recommended method to create a BigCommerce trial store is through the official BigCommerce website. This is the direct approach to signing up for the trial and will ensure you are using the latest version of the platform with full access to features.

Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Process:

Go to the BigCommerce Homepage

Visit BigCommerce.com and click on the Start Your Free Trial button, usually located prominently on the homepage. This button will lead you directly to the trial sign-up page.

Fill Out the Sign-Up Form

You’ll be prompted to provide your email address, your store name (don’t worry, you can change this later), and some basic information about your business or what you plan to sell.

No Credit Card Required

Unlike some platforms, BigCommerce does not require you to enter credit card details during the trial signup process, so there’s no risk of being charged if you forget to cancel the trial.

Set Up Your Account

After filling in your details, you will receive an email with a verification link. Follow this link to activate your trial account. From there, you’ll be taken directly to the BigCommerce dashboard where you can start setting up your trial store.

Advantages of Creating a Trial Store via the Official Site:

• Full Feature Access: By creating your trial through the official website, you get access to the entire suite of BigCommerce features for 15 days.
• Direct Customer Support: If you need help during your trial, BigCommerce offers direct customer support via chat, phone, or email.
• Guided Onboarding: Once your trial store is created, you’ll be taken through an onboarding process that shows you how to set up products, design your store, and configure payments.

2. BigCommerce Partner Agencies

Another option for creating a BigCommerce trial store is through BigCommerce Partner Agencies. These agencies work closely with BigCommerce to help businesses build and grow online stores. Some of these agencies offer a trial setup service where they not only create a trial store for you but also guide you through the initial setup, ensuring everything is optimized.

Benefits of Using a BigCommerce Partner Agency:

• Expert Guidance: If you’re new to eCommerce, a partner agency can provide hands-on help in setting up your trial store.
• Extended Trial Offers: Some agencies offer extended trial periods (beyond the standard 15 days) to give you more time to evaluate the platform. This can be helpful if you need more time to make a decision.
• Additional Services: Many agencies offer services like store design, SEO optimization, and custom app integration, which can be beneficial if you want a more personalized setup.

You can find a list of certified BigCommerce partners on the BigCommerce Partner Directory.

3. BigCommerce App Partners

If you’re using a specific app or service for your business, like an accounting tool or shipping solution, some of these companies partner with BigCommerce to offer trial accounts. For example, if you’re already using a marketing automation platform that integrates with BigCommerce, that platform may offer a referral link to set up a trial store.

These trial accounts are identical to the standard BigCommerce trial but may come with additional benefits, such as special app integration demos or exclusive discounts on certain features.

What Can You Do with a BigCommerce Trial Store?

During your 15-day trial, you’ll have full access to all the features that BigCommerce offers, so it’s a good idea to take advantage of this time to explore the platform thoroughly. Here are some things you can do to get the most out of your trial store:

1. Add Products and Categories

One of the first things you’ll want to do is add products to your store. BigCommerce allows you to create detailed product listings with images, descriptions, and pricing. You can also organize your products into categories to make it easier for customers to browse your store.

2. Customize Your Store’s Design

BigCommerce offers a variety of free and premium themes that you can use to design your store. During the trial, you can explore the theme options, customize the layout, and make design changes to suit your brand. Use the drag-and-drop editor to adjust the look and feel of your store without any coding knowledge.

3. Set Up Payment Methods

BigCommerce supports a range of payment gateways, including PayPal, Stripe, and Square. During the trial, you can connect your preferred payment provider and test out how the checkout process works.

4. Configure Shipping Options

You’ll also be able to set up shipping options and rules. BigCommerce allows you to configure real-time shipping rates, flat rates, or free shipping options, depending on your needs. Testing out shipping configurations is a great way to see how well BigCommerce handles logistics.

5. Explore Marketing Features

BigCommerce offers several built-in marketing tools to help you attract and retain customers. During your trial, explore email marketing integrations, abandoned cart recovery, and discount codes. These features can help you assess how the platform supports your marketing strategies.

6. Check Out Analytics and Reporting

BigCommerce includes a robust analytics dashboard that provides insight into your store’s performance. From traffic reports to sales data, use the trial period to explore how the reporting features work and how they can help you make data-driven decisions.

7. Test Customer Support

During the trial, you can reach out to BigCommerce’s support team if you have any questions. Whether it’s through live chat, phone, or email, testing the responsiveness and helpfulness of their customer service is a good way to assess the platform.

Learn More: What is the Difference Between Shopify and Bigcommerce

What Happens After the Trial?

Once your 15-day trial ends, you’ll need to choose a paid plan to continue using your store. BigCommerce offers several pricing options starting at $39/month. If you’re not ready to commit, your store will remain inactive, but BigCommerce usually keeps your data for a limited time, allowing you to return and reactivate your store later.

Conclusion

Creating a BigCommerce trial store is quick, easy, and free. Whether you choose to sign up directly through the official BigCommerce website, work with a partner agency, or explore app partners, you’ll have 15 days to dive into the platform and evaluate whether it’s the right fit for your business. Use this time wisely by exploring all the features, testing your store setup, and making sure BigCommerce aligns with your business needs.