Does Shopify Include SEO Features? A Look at Built-in Optimization Tools
Shopify doesn't directly offer SEO services, but it does provide built-in SEO features and tools within its platform. I'll explain exactly what Shopify offers for SEO and what it doesn't.
The built-in SEO features Shopify provides include:
• Customizable title tags and meta descriptions • Automatic sitemap generation • Editable URL structures • Alt text for images • Automatic canonical tags • Robot.txt file management • 301 redirects • Mobile-friendly themes
While these features are helpful, they're basic tools rather than comprehensive SEO services. For full SEO optimization, you'll need to either handle it yourself or work with third-party experts.
To maximize your Shopify store's SEO potential, you have three main options:
1. Use Shopify's built-in tools and manage SEO yourself 2. Install SEO apps from the Shopify App Store 3. Hire independent SEO professionals or agencies
If you're looking for hands-on SEO services, Shopify recommends working with their Expert Marketplace partners. These are independent professionals and agencies vetted by Shopify, though they're not directly employed by the platform.
The cost of SEO services for Shopify varies significantly:
• SEO apps: $10-100/month • Independent consultants: $500-5000/month • Agency services: $1000-10000/month
I recommend starting with Shopify's built-in tools and gradually expanding to third-party solutions as your business grows. This approach helps manage costs while ensuring your store maintains basic SEO optimization.
Remember that while Shopify provides the technical foundation for good SEO, successful optimization requires ongoing effort, whether you handle it internally or work with external experts.