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TikTok Shop is an ecommerce experience built right into the TikTok app, this blog guides you through TikTok Shop Setup in easy ways.

TikTok—brands have been using it to engage audiences and drive trends. And now, they can sell products directly on the app.  

All thanks to this nifty solution called TikTok Shop.

In 2023, 33.3% of TikTok users made purchases through TikTok Shop. And by 2026, this percentage is expected to reach nearly 40%. 

What is TikTok Shop?

TikTok Shop is an ecommerce solution for generating sales on TikTok. It allows sellers to sell products directly through:

• In-feed videos (videos appearing in users' feeds)
• LIVE streams (real-time video broadcasts)
• Showcase tab (dedicated shopping section on your profile)

TikTok Shop handles everything from product discovery to checkout and post-payment activities, all within the app. You can post different types of videos like product demos, unboxings, and showcases

In short, TikTok Shop is a built-in tool for selling on TikTok. It makes shopping fun and easy for both sellers and buyers.

The Benefits of Setting Up a TikTok Shop

Setting up a TikTok Shop can transform your business. It's an exciting way to connect with your audience and sell directly on a popular platform. Let’s look at why it’s worth considering.

• Turn fans into customers: TikTok Shop lets you turn viewers into buyers without making them leave the app. People can browse, discover, and buy products right where they are. It’s simple and keeps customers engaged.
• Easy to start: You don’t need much to begin. One product and no minimum followers. Simple, right?
• Reach new customers: TikTok Shop is perfect for finding new buyers. It’s a chance to share your brand story and connect with people who love to discover new things.
• Tap into trends: Using TikTok means you can easily hop on trends or collaborate with influencers. This can boost your product's visibility. Trendy marketing helps your products get noticed and builds trust with customers.
• Access a huge audience: TikTok has over a billion users, with many spending nearly an hour a day on the app. Your brand can reach a massive, engaged audience. Especially Gen Z, who love TikTok and are the future of shopping.
• Sell and have fun: A TikTok Shop lets you have fun and sell at the same time. You can show your products through live shopping, carousels, or shoppable videos. It's a creative way to showcase what you sell.
• Seamless integration: People can buy your products directly from your videos. No need to switch apps. It’s smooth and keeps customers interested.
• Built-in affiliate programs: You can set up affiliate programs easily. Start with a 5% commission. Influencers can help show off your products in new ways.
• Lots of support: TikTok offers a Shop Academy. Learn about trends, policies, and get tips on content creation. You’re never alone.

Requirements for Selling on TikTok

TikTok Shop isn’t available to everyone. There are specific criteria to meet. Who can use TikTok Shop? You qualify if you fall within any of these groups: sellers, creators, partners, and affiliates. Check out the details below.

Group

Description

Requirements

Sellers

Registered companies or brands with products to sell.

Must be in eligible countries like the US, UK, Thailand, Singapore. Provide verifiable evidence of location and business credentials.

Creators

Individuals who make videos on TikTok as a hobby but can sell for brands.

Minimum of 1,000 followers. At least 50 video views in the last 28 days. Must be at least 18 years old.

Partners

Businesses that help companies sell better by teaming up on TikTok.

Must have a registered business in designated countries like China, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Philippines, and others.

Affiliates

Program that helps brands work with influencers who promote products for a commission.

Must sign in as a TikTok Shop seller from countries like the UK, China, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and Philippines.

Things to Consider Before Setting Up Your TikTok Shop

TikTok Shops are new and evolving. The platform's future is still unfolding. It’s a great opportunity, but don't rely solely on it for all your revenue. Start small and see how it goes.

Setting up a Shop on TikTok is free, but there are fees involved. As of January 2024, TikTok increased its commission from 2% to 8%, plus 30 cents per transaction. Be sure to factor these costs into your planning.

Security is worth noting. TikTok Shops are not end-to-end encrypted, so the platform and possibly third parties can read messages between you and shoppers. Check TikTok’s guidelines for what you can and cannot sell to stay compliant.

Overall, TikTok Shops offer a fresh way to reach customers. While it's a promising platform, keep exploring other channels too. Stay updated with changes and make informed decisions as the platform grows.

How to Create a TikTok Shop

TikTok shopping is quickly gaining steam as a new way for people to buy their favorite products. Here are the steps you need to set up your own TikTok Shop and start selling.

1. Create a TikTok Shop Account 

Go to shop.tiktok.com and click "Get Started." Choose "Seller" and fill in the details. Use a new email for your shop, not the one linked to your current TikTok account. This way, you can unlink and relink different pages if needed. 

2. Register Your Business 

Sign up as an individual or a business. If you’re an individual, enter your name and Social Security number. If you’re a business, use your business name and EIN. Remember, one person or business can only have one TikTok Shop.

3. Verify Your Information 

Upload your ID and proof of address. TikTok needs to verify that you are a real entity. Once verified, you can move to the next steps.

4. Set Up Your Shop Information 

Enter your shop name and choose the primary products you’ll be selling. Avoid using words like "Flagship" or "Official" in your shop name. Select the appropriate product category for your items.

5. Add Your Tax Information 

If you're in the US, you'll need to fill out a W-9 form. Provide the same tax information you did earlier, whether it's your Social Security number or EIN. This step is crucial for compliance and to ensure smooth transactions.

6. Set Up Shipping 

Create a shipping profile with rates. You can choose flat rates or calculated rates with carriers like USPS or UPS. Ensure your shipping zones are set up correctly.

7. Add Your First Product 

Click on "Add Product." You have several options here. You can upload products manually, sync with an online store like Shopify, bulk upload products, or add them through the Seller Center app. I recommend syncing your TikTok shop with your Shopify store (more on this later) for better inventory and sales management.

8. Connect Your TikTok Account 

Link your TikTok account to your shop. Go to your profile on TikTok, tap the three dots, and scan the QR code provided by TikTok Shop.

9. Tag Products in Your Videos 

Create a TikTok video promoting a product. While editing, tap "Add Link," then select "Products and More." Choose the product to tag from your shop, making the video shoppable

10. Final Review and Go Live 

Review all information to ensure accuracy. Submit your shop for review. Once approved, your shop goes live, and you can start selling on TikTok.

Other Ways to Set Up a TikTok Shop

Besides the steps for creating a TikTok Shop, you can set up a Shop by using a partner platform or through API integration. Here’s how:

1. Partner Platform 

Use a supported eCommerce partner platform (BigCommerce, Shopify, Ecwid, etc.) to launch your storefront. Doing this makes it easy to sync your products to TikTok for Business and TikTok Store Manager.

Steps to Set Up a TikTok Storefront on a Partner Platform:

1. Select a compatible partner platform: Pick a platform that works with TikTok. Options include BigCommerce, Ecwid, Shopify, and Square.
2. Create a storefront: Follow the platform's instructions to create your online store. Add product details, images, and pricing.
3. Connect to TikTok for Business: Sign in to your TikTok For Business account. Go to TikTok Store Manager.
4. Sync items: Sync your products from the partner platform to TikTok. This makes your products available for purchase on TikTok.
5. Customize storefront Make your TikTok Storefront look appealing. Use visuals, engaging descriptions, and catchy product names.
6. Activate storefront Review everything. Once satisfied, activate your TikTok Storefront so users can start shopping.
7. Monitor and optimize Keep track of your storefront's performance. Monitor sales and customer interactions. Use insights to improve your store.

2. API Integration 

For those with tech skills, using TikTok’s Marketing API can offer a customized setup.

Steps to Set Up TikTok Storefront via API:

1. Create a developer account: Go to the TikTok developers portal and create an account. Verify your email and set a password.
2. Accept terms and conditions: Read and accept the TikTok Developer Terms and Conditions.
3. Connect your application: In the "My Apps" tab, choose "Connect a new app." Enter the app name and upload its icon.
4. Submit application for review: Fill in the necessary details like app name, category, download URL, description, website, Bundle ID, and PKG name. Submit the app for review.
5. Receive approval: Wait for TikTok to approve your application. Once approved, you get a Client Key to start working on the integration.
6. Set up store: Use the API to create a store on TikTok Business Center. Bind the store and catalog to the TikTok For Business user’s account.

How to Connect Your Shopify Store to TikTok Shop

Linking your Shopify store to TikTok Shop is a great way to sell products directly on TikTok. Whether you already have a Shopify store or want to do dropshipping, connecting them is simple. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.

1. Prepare Your Shopify Store 

Make sure your Shopify store is set up and ready. You need to be on a plan, have payment options configured, and set up shipping. Ensure your products are imported and ready to go. If you don’t have a Shopify store yet, check the description for a discount on your first month.

2. Install SKU IQ App

Go to your Shopify dashboard. Click on "Apps" and search for the SKU IQ app. Install it. The process is simple and free. This app will help you manage everything.

3. Connect Shopify to TikTok Shop 

Open SKU IQ from your Shopify home screen. Connect your Shopify store and TikTok Shop by signing into your TikTok Shop account. Follow the app’s instructions. Log in with the same credentials you used to create your TikTok Shop seller account.

4. Sync Shopify Products to TikTok Shop 

In your SKU IQ account, select the products you want to sell on TikTok. Push them to your TikTok Shop. Assign them to a category, like home supplies. Let the app process the sync.

5. Refresh TikTok Shop Seller Central 

Go to your TikTok Shop Seller Central page. Refresh it to see your products ready to sell. Start making videos and use affiliates to promote your products.

6. Use Affiliates to Boost Sales 

In TikTok Shop Seller Central, go to the affiliate tab. Select your products and set commission rates. Affiliates can earn $1 to $5 per sale. This method helps drive traffic to your TikTok Shop.

How to Optimize Your TikTok Shop

Once you’ve set up your TikTok Shop, take some steps to optimize it. TikTok Shop optimization mainly requires you to:

• Describe your business in your bio: Your TikTok bio is important. It’s the first thing people see when they visit your page. Make it clear what your brand is about. Use keywords that people might search for. If you sell handmade vintage clothing, say that in your bio. Be creative and memorable.
• Optimize your product catalog: Your TikTok storefront should look good. Use high-quality images with consistent lighting and style. Make sure your product titles are clear and use keywords. Even though links in descriptions aren’t clickable, still provide detailed information about each product.
• Add a call to action (CTA) to videos: A CTA tells viewers what to do next. Use phrases like “buy now” or “sign up.” Include CTAs in your videos and your bio. Guide users to your shop or special offers. This can increase conversions by giving clear instructions.

Ways to Sell Your Products with TikTok Shop

Now that you’ve optimized your TikTok Shop, let's see how you can sell your products. You have options like shoppable videos, live streams, and the Shop tab. Here’s how it works.

1. Shoppable Videos 

Create videos with your products and include shoppable links. Viewers can purchase directly from the video without leaving the page. It makes the buying process easy and fast. A makeup brand, for example, can feature its items in a tutorial video, allowing users to buy right away.

2. LIVE Shopping 

Use live streams to sell in real-time. Show your products during the stream, and a pin with product details will pop up. Viewers can tap to add items to their cart immediately or wait until the stream ends to buy everything shown.

3. Shop Tab 

TikTok’s Shop Tab is a marketplace where users can browse products from multiple creators. Available in select markets, this feature lets creators and affiliates add items from various TikTok Shops and earn commissions on sales without owning the products.

4. TikTok Ads 

TikTok ads can help get your products in front of more people. With the TikTok App for Shopify, you can create shoppable ads. Users can buy items directly from the ads they see. It’s a great way to boost visibility and sales.

5. Challenges 

TikTok is about fun and interaction. Spend some time on the app to see what trends and challenges people enjoy. Create your own challenge to promote your products. It could be a dance, a fun task, or something creative. Offer small prizes or freebies to get people involved. This should excite users and generate lots of user-made content for your brand.

6. Product Promotion

Be proactive in promoting your products. Create videos that highlight your items. Use filters and follow trends to attract more followers. Engage viewers with content they want to re-watch and share. The more people interact with your videos, the more TikTok will show them to others

7. Brand Authorization 

Brand authorization lets you sell products with a brand's trademark, name, or logo. Here’s how to do it:

1. Find the tool Go to My Account, then Seller Profile, and click on Brand within Seller Center.
2. Add a new brand Follow the prompts to submit the required documents.
3. Check existing authorized brands: Review your current authorized brands to ensure everything is up to date.

If you manage to secure authorization, you’ll have an edge as it shows your products are genuine. It's also the most effective way to build trust and boost your shop’s credibility.

Final Thoughts

Social commerce is fast-growing and expected to shake up eCommerce in the next few years. With TikTok Shop, brands can reach consumers where they already spend their time. Use the steps above to set up and promote your own TikTok Shop and see the impact this has on your sales. Go ahead and turn your TikTok into a shopping destination today.