Choose a niche and target market
Research competitors and validate demand
Find reliable suppliers (AliExpress, CJdropshipping, Spocket, Printful, DSers, local wholesalers)
Set up a dropshipping store platform (Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce)
Create a domain and configure basic store settings (tax, shipping, policies)
Build product pages with clear titles, pricing, photos, and variants
Set up shipping and delivery options (verify delivery times and tracking)
Configure payments (Shopify Payments, Stripe, PayPal, alternative gateways)
Add compliance pages (Refund Policy, Shipping Policy, Terms of Service, Privacy Policy)
Connect apps/tools for automation (DSers/CJ, Oberlo alternatives, email marketing, product import)
Create a customer support workflow (email, chat, response templates)
Set up marketing channels (Facebook/Instagram ads, Google Ads, TikTok ads, SEO, email)
Launch with a small curated product catalog to test performance
Create an offer and pricing strategy (bundles, discounts, free shipping threshold)
Set up email/SMS flows (welcome, abandoned cart, post-purchase, win-back)
Configure analytics (GA4, Google Search Console, Meta Pixel) and conversion tracking
Start ad campaigns with test budgets and focused audiences
Optimize creatives and landing pages based on performance data
Monitor supplier fulfillment times, stock status, and customer feedback
Improve product selection using sales and conversion metrics
Handle orders, returns, and customer issues promptly
Scale winning products and campaigns while reducing underperformers
Keep store policies, supplier terms, and ad account compliance up to date