Glossary

E-commerce

E-commerce is the buying and selling of products or services online, through a website with a catalog and secure payment.

3 min read · Published July 7, 2026

E-commerce at a glance

E-commerce is the buying and selling of products or services online. An e-commerce website combines a product catalog, a shopping cart, and secure payment so a business can sell 24/7 without a physical store. Platforms like Shopify, or a custom build, power everything from a single product to a full catalog.

What a good e-commerce site needs

A strong online store loads fast, works perfectly on mobile, and makes checkout effortless, since every extra step loses buyers. Clear product photos, trust signals like reviews and secure payment badges, and a simple path from product to purchase are what turn browsers into customers.

FAQ

How much does an e-commerce website cost?

A simple online store can start from a few hundred dollars on a platform like Shopify, while a custom e-commerce site with specific features typically ranges from $3,000 to $30,000 or more.

Do I need Shopify or a custom store?

Shopify is fast and affordable for standard stores. A custom build makes sense when you need a unique design, special features, or full control over performance and branding.