So, you've built a fantastic Shopify store, but your domain is still with Squarespace? Don't worry—connecting them is a straightforward process that ensures your customers can find your website seamlessly.
Whether you want to keep your domain registered with Squarespace and simply point it to Shopify or fully transfer it for centralized management, understanding the right method will save you time and avoid potential disruptions. This guide will walk you through both approaches, troubleshooting common issues along the way, and ensuring your transition is as smooth as possible.
Understanding Your Options: Pointing vs. Transferring
Before making any changes, it's essential to understand the difference between pointing and transferring a Squarespace domain to Shopify. Choosing the right method depends on how much control you want over your domain settings and where you prefer to manage renewals and DNS configurations.
- Pointing: Your domain remains registered with Squarespace, but its DNS settings are adjusted to direct traffic to Shopify. This method is faster and retains your existing domain management setup.
- Transferring: The domain is moved entirely from Squarespace to Shopify, meaning Shopify will become your new domain registrar. This is ideal for those who want to manage everything from one place without dealing with two platforms.
Pointing Your Squarespace Domain to Shopify
If you want to connect your existing Squarespace domain to Shopify without transferring ownership, pointing your domain is the best approach. This allows you to continue using Squarespace for domain renewals and management while ensuring that visitors reach your Shopify store when they enter your domain name. Follow these steps to correctly update your DNS settings.
Step 1: Access Your Squarespace Domain Settings
First, log into your Squarespace account and navigate to Settings > Domains. Here, you'll see a list of all the domains associated with your account. Click on the domain that you want to connect to Shopify. This section is where you'll adjust the necessary DNS records to ensure your domain correctly points to your Shopify store.
Step 2: Find Your DNS Records
Once inside the domain settings, locate the Advanced Settings or DNS Management section. DNS records control how your domain directs visitors to different online locations. Modifying these records will allow your domain to display your Shopify store instead of your Squarespace website.
Step 3: Update DNS Records
To successfully point your Squarespace domain to Shopify, you need to modify two important records:
- A Record: This directs your domain to Shopify's IP address. Shopify's latest IP address can be found in their official documentation.
- CNAME Record: This ensures that the "www" version of your domain is properly linked to Shopify. It should be set to shops.myshopify.com.
Step 4: Save Changes & Wait
After updating your records, save the changes. Keep in mind that DNS propagation can take anywhere from a few minutes to 48 hours before the changes take full effect globally. You can check the status by trying to access your domain in a browser.
Transferring Your Squarespace Domain to Shopify
Transferring your domain to Shopify means that Shopify will become your domain registrar, allowing you to manage everything (including renewals and DNS settings) directly from your Shopify admin panel. This approach is ideal for those who want to consolidate their store and domain management in one place.
Step 1: Check Domain Eligibility
Before starting the transfer, ensure that your domain is eligible for transfer. Domains that were recently purchased (less than 60 days ago) or transferred from another provider may be locked due to ICANN regulations. You can verify eligibility by checking Squarespace's domain settings.
Step 2: Unlock Your Domain & Get the Transfer Code
To begin the transfer, go to Settings > Domains in Squarespace and select your domain. Look for the option to unlock the domain. Once unlocked, request the authorization code (also known as an EPP code). This unique code is required to authorize the domain transfer to Shopify.
Step 3: Start the Transfer in Shopify
Now, log into your Shopify admin panel and navigate to Settings > Domains. Click on Transfer domain and enter the domain name you wish to move. Shopify will then prompt you to enter the authorization code from Squarespace.
Step 4: Confirm & Pay
Shopify will guide you through the final steps, which may include a domain transfer fee. This fee usually covers one additional year of domain registration. Once you confirm the transfer, the process can take several days to complete.
Troubleshooting Domain Connection Issues
If your domain isn't connecting properly, here are common issues and how to resolve them:
- Domain not working after DNS changes: Wait up to 48 hours for propagation.
- Incorrect DNS settings: Verify that you have entered the correct A and CNAME records in Squarespace.
- Transfer issues: Ensure your domain is unlocked and your authorization code is valid.
Best Way to Move a Domain to Shopify
Deciding between pointing and transferring depends on your needs:
- Pointing: Best for users who want to keep their domain management separate while still connecting it to Shopify.
- Transferring: Ideal for store owners who prefer to handle everything within Shopify.
Useful Links
Pointing a Squarespace Domain – This guide explains how to point your Squarespace domain to an external website, such as your Shopify store, by updating DNS settings.
Accessing Your Squarespace-Managed Domain's DNS Settings – Learn how to access and manage the DNS settings of your Squarespace domain to make necessary changes for connecting to Shopify.
Transferring a Domain Away from Squarespace – This article provides step-by-step instructions on transferring your Squarespace domain to another provider, such as Shopify, including how to unlock your domain and obtain the authorization code.
Troubleshooting Domain Transfers – If you encounter issues during the domain transfer process, this guide offers solutions to common problems and tips for a successful transfer.
Adding DNS Records to Your Domain – Understand how to add or modify DNS records in your Squarespace domain settings, which is essential for pointing your domain to Shopify.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to point or transfer your domain, ensuring a smooth setup is crucial for your e-commerce success. A properly connected domain enhances your brand credibility, makes your store more accessible, and helps build customer trust. By following the right steps and troubleshooting potential issues, you can confidently move forward with your Shopify store.