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How To Sell On TikTok With Shopify: Our Ultimate Guide

November 20, 2023
Written and researched by experts at AvadaLearn more about our methodology

By Sam Nguyen

CEO Avada Commerce

In the ever-evolving world of online commerce, staying ahead of the curve is essential for success. The emergence of TikTok as a dynamic marketing platform has opened up exciting possibilities for businesses worldwide. If you’re eager to explore the potential of “Sell on TikTok with Shopify” you’re in the right place.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the strategies and techniques necessary to leverage this potent combination to its fullest extent.

Can You Sell On TikTok With Shopify?

Yes. With over 1 billion active users, TikTok presents a golden opportunity for e-commerce. TikTok has its “TikTok for Business” tool, offering merchants tools and insights for effective ad campaigns. 

In 2020, Shopify partnered with TikTok For Business, launching the TikTok channel on the Shopify App Store. Through this app, merchants can now effortlessly link their product catalog to TikTok, craft engaging videos, and set up ad campaigns. Moreover, it lets sellers tag products in their videos, simplifying the shopping process for customers.

How To Sell On TikTok With Shopify: Step-by-step Guide

Before diving into the world of TikTok selling, there are several foundational steps you must take to ensure success.

Before You Start

Understand The Platform And Users’ Insights

Understand The Platform And Users’ Insights

TikTok operates differently from other social media platforms. Its fast-paced, short video format is unique and demands specific content strategies. Research and analyze the trending videos, the style of content that gets the most engagement, and the music or challenges that are currently popular.

Equally essential is to understand the TikTok audience. Predominantly, the platform caters to a younger demographic, but that’s rapidly diversifying. Look into user insights, preferences, when they are most active, and shopping behaviors. This will help you tailor your content and marketing strategies more effectively.

Creating a TikTok business account

To sell on TikTok with Shopify, you need a TikTok business account. This type of account offers features that personal accounts don’t, such as detailed analytics, ad creation tools, and the ability to set up a TikTok Shop.

Creating a TikTok business account

Step 1. Download TikTok

Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to download the TikTok app. Once the app is installed and opened, find the Profile icon in the bottom menu bar and click Sign Up to register.

Step 2. Set up your free Business Account

In the app, click “” on the top right of the Profile page, go to Settings & Privacy, then click Manage Account and select Switch to Business Account. Choose the category that best fits your business to receive customized content, events, and solutions.

Step 3. Start creating

Fill in the necessary details about your business and verify any required information. Also, remember to always stay updated with TikTok’s policies and guidelines to ensure smooth operations.

Start Selling On TikTok With Shopify

With the TikTok Business account, you can integrate it with your Shopify store and start selling.

Step 1: Install the Tiktok app on the Shopify App Store

Go to the Shopify App Store and search for the TikTok app. Click on “Install” to add the app to your store.

Install the TikTok app on the Shopify App Store

Step 2: Connect TikTok to your Shopify store within the app

Connect TikTok to your Shopify store within the app

Step 3: Set up your TikTok shop

Set up your TikTok shop

Step 4: Accept Data Sharing Terms and connect your TikTok Shop Account with Shopify

Accept Data Sharing Terms and connect your TikTok Shop Account with Shopify

Step 5: Product Catalog, Inventory & Warehouse Sync

Product Catalog, Inventory & Warehouse Sync

Step 6: Start creating ad campaigns using product photos and videos

Start creating ad campaigns using product photos and videos

Best Practices To Sell On TikTok With Shopify

  • Collaborate with Influencers:

Partnering with TikTok influencers can dramatically boost your brand’s visibility. By sending them products to review or recommend, you leverage their established audience for increased exposure. Furthermore, with Shopify Collabs, finding influencers that align with your brand becomes easier than ever. Whether you send them products for free or run an affiliate program, this method is a surefire way to amplify reach.

  • Maximize TikTok Advertising

Investing in TikTok’s in-app advertising is essential. It’s an effective method to highlight your products and enhance brand visibility. By experimenting with various ad formats, from TopView and Brand Takeover to Hashtag Challenges, you can discern what resonates most with your audience and refine your strategy accordingly.

  • Embrace Interactive Content

Interactive and shoppable videos are key to driving engagement. Features like polls or Q&A sessions foster interaction and keep viewers intrigued. Additionally, producing “how-to-use” or tutorial videos offers a blend of entertainment and valuable information, enhancing the shopping experience.

  • Entice with Offers

Everyone loves a good deal. Hosting flash sales or offering exclusive discount codes specifically for your TikTok audience can be a potent incentive. With catchy calls to action, you can effortlessly guide these enthusiastic viewers to your Shopify store, streamlining their transition from viewer to customer.

  • Foster Community Engagement

Never underestimate the power of community. Engaging actively by replying to comments, participating in trending challenges, or crafting content that sparks meaningful conversation can significantly boost brand loyalty. Over time, this robust community feeling can translate into repeat purchases and a solid customer base.

Bottom Line

Embracing the power of TikTok in conjunction with Shopify can unlock tremendous e-commerce opportunities. The best practices outlined above should serve as a valuable roadmap. Keep this page handy for quick reference, and always prioritize authenticity and value for your audience as you venture into this dynamic platform. 


Sam Nguyen is the CEO and founder of Avada Commerce, an e-commerce solution provider headquartered in Singapore. He is an expert on the Shopify e-commerce platform for online stores and retail point-of-sale systems. Sam loves talking about e-commerce and he aims to help over a million online businesses grow and thrive.