How to Create an E-Commerce Store with OpenCart?

Last updated on June 12th, 2024

E-commerce has become one of the most popular ways for businesses to sell their products and services online. With the rise of technology and increasing internet penetration, more and more people are turning to online shopping for its convenience and accessibility. This shift in consumer behavior has made building an e-commerce website essential for any business looking to thrive in today’s highly competitive market.

OpenCart is a powerful open-source platform that enables users to create and manage their own e-commerce websites with ease. It offers a user-friendly interface, customizable themes, extensive features, and an active community support system. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a beginner, OpenCart provides the flexibility and tools needed to build a robust online store.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about building an e-commerce website with OpenCart. We’ll cover the basics of setting up your store, customizing the look and feel of your site to reflect your brand, managing products and inventory, integrating payment gateways, and optimizing your site for search engines. Additionally, we will touch on advanced features such as multi-language support, multiple currency options, and integrating various extensions and plugins to enhance your store’s functionality.

What Is OpenCart E-Commerce Development?

OpenCart E-Commerce development is the process of creating an online store using the OpenCart platform. It involves designing and customizing your website to match your brand’s identity, adding products with detailed descriptions and images, managing inventory to keep track of stock levels, processing payments securely through various gateways, and optimizing your site for search engines to improve visibility and attract more customers.

OpenCart was developed in 2005 by Daniel Kerr as a simple e-commerce solution designed to make it easier for merchants to sell their products online. Since its inception, the platform has evolved significantly, offering a wide array of features and extensions to meet the diverse needs of online businesses. With a strong community of developers and a user-friendly interface, OpenCart is now used by over 350,000 businesses worldwide, ranging from small startups to large enterprises. The platform supports multiple languages and currencies, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking to reach a global audience.

Must Read: 30+ Best eCommerce Platforms [Free + Paid]

Why Choose OpenCart for Your E-Commerce Website Development?  

There are several reasons why OpenCart is a popular choice for e-commerce website development. Some of the key benefits include:

1. Simple to Use 

OpenCart has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for merchants to manage their online store without any technical knowledge. The admin panel is intuitive and well-organized, allowing you to add products, customize your site design, and track orders with ease. Additionally, the platform offers a variety of plugins and extensions to enhance your store’s functionality, enabling you to provide a better shopping experience for your customers. Moreover, there are plenty of resources available online, including forums, tutorials, and support communities, to help you get started with OpenCart and troubleshoot any issues you may encounter. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced ecommerce professional, OpenCart provides the tools and support you need to succeed.

2. Affordable and Cost-Effective 

One of the biggest advantages of using OpenCart is its affordability. Unlike other e-commerce platforms that require a monthly subscription or hefty upfront fees, OpenCart is completely free to download and use. The platform’s open-source nature also means that there are no hidden costs or restrictions on how you can customize and manage your online store. This makes it an ideal choice for small businesses and startups with limited resources who want to establish an online presence without breaking the bank.

Moreover, OpenCart offers an extensive range of features and plugins that allow you to enhance your store’s functionality. From multiple payment gateways to a variety of shipping options, you can tailor your store to meet your specific needs. Additionally, the community support for OpenCart is robust, providing a wealth of knowledge, resources, and troubleshooting tips that can help you navigate any issues you might encounter. With OpenCart, you have the flexibility and tools to grow your business at your own pace, making it a smart, cost-effective solution for aspiring online entrepreneurs.

3. Scalability and Flexibility

As your business grows, you may need to expand or modify your online store to keep up with the demands of your customers. OpenCart offers a scalable and flexible platform that can accommodate your growing business needs. Whether you want to add new products, change your store’s design, or integrate third-party services, OpenCart makes it easy for you to make these changes without disrupting your store’s operations.

Furthermore, OpenCart is SEO-friendly, which means that it allows you to optimize your website for search engines and increase its visibility in search results. This is crucial for driving traffic and attracting potential customers to your online store. Additionally, with its responsive design, OpenCart ensures that your store looks great on all devices, providing a seamless shopping experience for your customers.

4. Lots of Features and Plugins

One of the biggest advantages of using OpenCart is its extensive range of features and plugins. With over 13,000 modules and themes available in the official marketplace, you can customize your store to fit your specific business needs. Whether you need marketing tools, inventory management systems, or customer support integrations, there is a plugin for almost every aspect of managing an online store.

Moreover, these plugins are user-friendly and easy to install, making it accessible for beginners with little to no coding knowledge. This allows you to quickly add new functionalities to your store without having to spend time and money on hiring developers. For instance, you can seamlessly integrate payment gateways, add advanced SEO features, or implement sophisticated analytics tools to track your store’s performance.

Additionally, the OpenCart community is active and supportive, offering numerous forums and resources where you can seek advice and share experiences. The vast array of options and the ease of use make OpenCart an ideal choice for both new and experienced online retailers looking to create a tailored and efficient e-commerce solution.

5. Store security and updates

Another significant advantage of using OpenCart is its focus on security. As an open-source platform, it is continuously monitored by a large community of developers, making it less prone to vulnerabilities. Moreover, the core team at OpenCart regularly releases updates and patches to address any potential security risks. This ensures that your store remains secure and protected from cyber threats.

Additionally, OpenCart offers comprehensive backup functionality that allows you to schedule automatic backups of your store’s database and files. This feature provides peace of mind in case of any data loss or website crashes.

What Are the Features of OpenCart?

What Are the Steps for Creating an E-Commerce Website with OpenCart?

Step 1: Choose Your Platform and Domain Name

The first step in creating an e-commerce website with OpenCart is to choose the platform you want to use. OpenCart is a popular and user-friendly option, but there are other platforms available as well. Once you have chosen your platform, you will need to register for a domain name. This will be the web address for your online store, so it should be easy to remember and relevant to your brand.

Step 2: Host Your Website

Next, you will need to find a hosting service to host your website. This is where all of your website’s files and data will be stored, ensuring that your site is accessible to users at all times. OpenCart has recommended hosting partners that are optimized for their platform, providing enhanced performance, security, and support tailored to your needs. However, you can also choose any reputable hosting provider that meets your specific requirements, such as storage capacity, bandwidth, and customer service. It’s important to research and compare different hosting options to find the best fit for your online store.

Step 3: Hire a Web Developer or Use a Template

You have two options for the design and development of your OpenCart e-commerce website. You can either hire web developer to create a custom website for you, or you can use pre-designed templates from OpenCart’s marketplace or other third-party providers. Hiring a web developer will ensure that your website is unique and tailored to your specific needs, but it can be more expensive. On the other hand, using a template may save time and money, but it may also result in a less customized design.

Step 4: Select an E-Commerce Template

If you choose to use a template, you can browse through OpenCart’s marketplace or other third-party providers to find a suitable design for your online store. Templates come in a variety of styles and functionalities, so make sure to select one that aligns with your brand image and offers the features you require. You can also customize the template further by adding your logo, images, and content.

Step 5: Add Your Products

Once you have your website set up, it’s time to add your products. OpenCart allows you to easily manage and categorize your products, upload product images and detailed descriptions, and set prices and inventory levels. You can sort products into various categories, making it easier for customers to find what they’re looking for. Additionally, you can provide extensive product information, including specifications, reviews, and related items. OpenCart also enables you to offer discounts, promotions, and special offers for your customers, which can be scheduled for specific times and tailored to different customer groups to maximize sales. With these features, you can enhance the shopping experience and boost your online store’s performance.

Step 6: Set up Payment Gateways

To start selling products on your website, you need to set up payment gateways that will allow your customers to make purchases securely. This is a crucial step in establishing a trustworthy and efficient e-commerce platform. OpenCart, a popular e-commerce solution, comes with built-in integrations for several widely-used payment methods such as PayPal, Stripe, and Authorize.net. These options provide reliable and secure ways to handle transactions, giving both you and your customers peace of mind.

If the built-in options don’t meet all your needs, you have the flexibility to add additional payment methods through extensions or custom code. This allows you to cater to a wider audience by offering localized or niche payment options that could be more convenient for certain customer segments. It’s important to thoroughly research and choose trusted and secure payment gateways to ensure a smooth and trustworthy checkout process for your customers. A secure checkout not only protects your customers’ personal and financial information but also builds confidence in your brand, encouraging repeat business and positive word-of-mouth.

Step 7: Finalize Shipping Details

Shipping is another vital aspect of running an online store. You need to set up shipping methods and rates that align with your business model and provide the best options for your customers. OpenCart also offers a range of built-in shipping methods, including flat rate, weight-based, and location-based options. These can be customized according to your preferences.

Additionally, you have the option to integrate with third-party shipping providers such as FedEx, UPS, or USPS for more advanced shipping features and real-time tracking information. This is particularly useful if you offer international shipping or have large products that require special handling.

Properly configuring your shipping options ensures that your customers know exactly what they are paying for at checkout and reduces the risk of any unexpected costs or confusion during the delivery process. It also allows you to accurately calculate shipping costs and provide accurate estimates for both domestic and international orders.

Step 8: Conduct Pilot Tests

Before officially launching your online store, it’s important to conduct thorough testing to ensure that everything is functioning properly. This includes testing the checkout process, payment gateways, shipping methods, and any other features or integrations you have implemented.

Invite a small group of individuals to test your website and provide feedback on their overall experience. This can help identify any potential issues or areas for improvement before your store is open to the public.

Step 9: Launch Your Website

Once you have completed all the necessary steps and conducted thorough testing, it’s time to officially launch your online store! This is an exciting moment that marks the culmination of all your hard work and dedication. However, it’s important to continue monitoring your website and making any necessary updates or improvements as needed to ensure smooth operation and a great user experience.

Stay on top of customer feedback and reviews to ensure that your store is providing a positive shopping experience. Actively engage with your customers to gather insights and address any concerns they may have. Regularly review sales data and make adjustments to your marketing strategies or product offerings as needed. Consider running promotions or special campaigns to attract more visitors and boost sales.

Remember, the launch is just the beginning. Continuously optimizing your online store and staying responsive to your customer’s needs will help you build a successful and sustainable business. Keep learning and adapting to the ever-changing e-commerce landscape to stay ahead of the competition.

Also Read: Guide on eCommerce Mobile App Development

How Do You Install the Theme in An OpenCart?

To install a theme in OpenCart, follow these steps:

• Log into your OpenCart admin panel.

• Click on “Extensions” from the top menu and select “Extension Installer.”

• Click on the “Upload” button and browse for the theme file in .zip format.

• Once you have selected the file, click on “Continue” to start the installation process.

• After the theme is successfully uploaded, navigate to “Extensions” again and select “Themes.”

• Find your newly installed theme in the list and click on the green checkmark icon to make it active.

• Your new theme should now be live on your website.

7 Live Examples of OpenCart E-Commerce Websites

Exploring real-world examples of OpenCart-powered e-commerce websites can provide valuable insights and inspiration for your online store. Here are seven live examples of successful OpenCart e-commerce websites:

1. Shore Lines Apparel

Shore Lines Apparel is an online store that sells bohemian-inspired clothing and accessories, perfect for those who love a free-spirited and eclectic style. Their carefully curated collections include a variety of unique and colorful pieces, ranging from flowy dresses and comfortable tops to eye-catching jewelry and chic bags. Their website, built with OpenCart, features a clean and modern design that showcases their products beautifully, ensuring that every item stands out. The website also has advanced filtering options that allow customers to easily find what they’re looking for, whether it’s a specific size, color, or price range. Additionally, the responsive layout ensures that browsing and shopping are seamless on any device, whether you’re on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone. With its user-friendly interface and aesthetically pleasing design, the Shore Lines Apparel website offers an enjoyable shopping experience for all fashion enthusiasts.

2. Gt Omega Racing

Gt Omega Racing is a leading manufacturer of sim racing equipment, catering to gamers and racing enthusiasts around the world. Established with a passion for high-quality gaming gear, they have quickly become a top choice for both amateur and professional racers. Their website, powered by OpenCart, offers a wide range of products including gaming chairs, steering wheels, pedals, and other accessories essential for an immersive racing experience.

The website has a sleek and professional design that appeals to their target audience of tech-savvy gamers who demand both functionality and aesthetics. With detailed product descriptions and high-quality images, customers can easily make informed decisions before making a purchase. Each product page provides comprehensive information about features, specifications, and compatibility, helping customers choose the right equipment for their needs.

Additionally, the website features customer reviews and ratings, offering insights from other buyers to aid in decision-making. Their customer service is renowned for being responsive and helpful, ensuring a smooth shopping experience. The website integrates with multiple payment options, ensuring secure transactions for customers all over the globe. Furthermore, Gt Omega Racing frequently offers promotions and discounts, making their premium products more accessible to a wider audience.

3. Get Laid Beds

Get Laid Beds is a UK-based company that specializes in handcrafted, high-quality wooden beds. The company takes pride in its skilled craftsmen and the use of sustainable materials to create elegant and durable bed frames. Their website, powered by Shopify, offers a seamless shopping experience with a wide range of bed designs and sizes to choose from.

The website stands out for its clean design and user-friendly interface, making it easy for customers to browse through their collection. Each product page includes detailed descriptions, images, and dimensions to help customers envision how the bed will look in their own space. Customers can also customize their bed by choosing from different wood finishes and adding optional under-bed storage drawers.

One unique feature of Get Laid Beds’ website is their “Design Your Own Bed” tool, which allows customers to fully customize their bed frame by choosing the size, shape, and design of the headboard and footboard. This feature gives customers more control over the look of their bed and makes it stand out as a unique piece in their home.

4. Arrowfile

Arrowfile is a UK-based company that specializes in archival and storage solutions for photos, documents, and collectibles. Their website, powered by Magento, offers a comprehensive range of products to help customers preserve their memories and collections.

The website has a clean and organized layout, making it easy for customers to find what they need. The homepage features different categories such as photo albums, scrapbooks, and document binders, making it convenient for customers to navigate through the site. Each product page includes detailed descriptions, images, and customer reviews to help customers make informed purchasing decisions.

One standout feature of Arrowfile’s website is their “My Collections” section where customers can create virtual collections of their own using products from the site. This allows customers to plan and organize their collections before making a purchase, ensuring they have all the necessary products to properly store and display their items.

5. Kleshna

Kleshna is a British jewelry brand that specializes in designing and creating high-quality, handcrafted pieces using precious metals and gemstones. Their website showcases their stunning collections and offers customers the option to customize their piece of jewelry.

The homepage features beautiful images of their latest collections, making it visually appealing for customers. The site also has a “Design Your Own” section where customers can choose the type of metal, gemstone, and design style to create a personalized piece of jewelry.

In addition to selling products, Kleshna’s website also offers educational resources such as a ring sizing guide and information on different types of gemstones. This adds value to the customer experience by providing useful information for those interested in purchasing or learning more about jewelry.

6. Marmalade (Asset Store)

Marmalade is an online asset store that offers a wide variety of digital products and resources for game developers, filmmakers, and creatives. Their website is user-friendly and easy to navigate, with categories such as 3D models, animations, sound effects, and more.

One of Marmalade’s standout features is their “Weekly Free Assets” section where users can download a selection of free assets every week. This not only allows customers to try out new products but also showcases the quality of the assets available on the site.

The site also has a search function that allows customers to filter through thousands of assets by category, price range, or popularity. Customers can also leave reviews and ratings on products they have purchased, helping others make informed decisions.

7. Everbuild (Construction Supplies)

Everbuild is an online retailer of construction supplies and building materials. Their website features a wide range of products from well-known brands, making it a convenient one-stop shop for contractors, builders, and DIY enthusiasts.

The site has a user-friendly interface with categories such as adhesives, sealants, waterproofing, and more. Each product page includes detailed information about the item, including specifications and recommended uses. This allows customers to make informed decisions based on their specific needs.

In addition to selling products, Everbuild’s website also offers helpful resources such as safety data sheets and technical data sheets for each product. This adds value to the customer experience by providing important information for the proper handling and usage of the products.

Trends and Technologies Ecommerce Website Development with Opencart

The rise of ecommerce has led to an increase in the development of online shopping platforms. One popular choice among developers is OpenCart, an open-source ecommerce platform that allows businesses to create and manage their online stores.

OpenCart offers a wide range of features such as multiple payment gateways, multi-language support, and SEO optimization. It also has a user-friendly interface that allows for easy customization and management of products, orders, and customers.

1. ERP vs. CRM Integration: Streamlining Business Processes

One major advantage of using OpenCart for ecommerce websites is its ability to integrate with other business systems such as ERP (enterprise resource planning) and CRM (customer relationship management). This integration streamlines processes by allowing data to flow seamlessly between different systems.

ERP integration allows for real-time syncing of inventory, orders, and customer information. This eliminates the need for manual data entry and minimizes errors in managing stock levels and order fulfillment. On the other hand, CRM integration helps businesses track and analyze customer behavior, allowing them to personalize marketing strategies and improve customer satisfaction.

2. Top ERP & CRM Systems for OpenCart Integration

Some popular ERP and CRM systems that can be integrated with OpenCart are listed below:

• SAP Business One
• Microsoft Dynamics
• Salesforce CRM
• Odoo ERP

These systems offer a wide range of features and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses.

3. Mobile CRM Integration: Reaching Customers on the Go

In today’s digital age, businesses need to have a strong online presence and reach customers through multiple channels. With the increasing use of mobile devices, integrating OpenCart with a mobile CRM system can help businesses stay connected with their customers on the go.

Mobile CRM integration allows for real-time access to customer information and enables businesses to send targeted promotions and personalized messages to customers directly through their mobile devices. This not only improves customer engagement but also helps in increasing sales.

4. Analyzing Space with Apple Vision Pro

Apple Vision Pro is a visual analysis tool that uses augmented reality to measure and analyze spaces accurately. This can be beneficial for businesses using OpenCart as it allows them to easily visualize how their products will fit into different spaces and provide accurate measurements to customers.

This integration can also help in reducing returns and exchanges, as customers can get an accurate idea of the product before purchasing. Furthermore, this technology can be used by businesses to create interactive and engaging shopping experiences for their customers.

5. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Sales and Marketing

AR and VR technologies have been gaining popularity in recent years, especially in the retail industry. By integrating OpenCart with AR and VR tools, businesses can create immersive shopping experiences for their customers.

Using AR technology, customers can virtually try on products before making a purchase, reducing the need for physical store visits. This not only enhances the overall customer experience but also increases sales by providing a more personalized and interactive shopping experience.

What Is the Average Cost of Building an OpenCart Website?

The cost of building an OpenCart website can vary significantly based on several factors, including the complexity of the design, the number of custom features, and the level of expertise of the developers involved. On average, a basic OpenCart website can cost between $1,000 and $5,000. This price range typically includes a simple template design, basic functionality, and minimal customization. For a more advanced OpenCart website with custom design elements, additional modules, and tailored features, the cost can rise to between $5,000 and $15,000. This higher range often reflects the expenses associated with hiring experienced developers, utilizing premium themes, and integrating third-party services or plugins.

• Basic OpenCart Website: $1,000 – $5,000
• Simple template design
• Basic functionality
• Minimal customization 

• Advanced OpenCart Website: $5,000 – $15,000
• Custom design elements
• Additional modules
• Tailored features
• Hiring experienced developers
• Utilizing premium themes
• Integrating third-party services or plugins

Hire Expert E-Commerce App Development Company

How Can iTechnolabs Help You with OpenCart Development?

iTechnolabs is a team of experienced developers and designers who specialize in OpenCart development. Our skilled professionals are dedicated to helping businesses thrive in the digital marketplace. We offer a wide range of services, including custom OpenCart website design, module development, theme customization, and ongoing maintenance and support. Whether you’re starting a new online store or looking to enhance an existing one, we have the expertise to create and maintain an effective online presence with OpenCart websites. Our goal is to deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring their success in the competitive e-commerce landscape. Our services include:

• Custom OpenCart website design: We work closely with our clients to understand their brand, target audience, and business goals to create a unique and visually appealing website design that reflects their brand identity.
• Custom OpenCart development: Our skilled developers have extensive experience in developing custom features and modules for OpenCart websites, allowing businesses to have a fully tailored solution that meets their specific needs.
• Responsive design: With the increasing use of mobile devices for online shopping, we ensure that all our OpenCart websites are responsive and optimized for different devices and screen sizes, providing a seamless user experience for customers.
• Integration of third-party services or plugins: We can integrate various third-party services or plugins into your OpenCart website to enhance its functionality and provide additional features such as payment gateways, social media integration, and more.
• Ongoing maintenance and support: Our team provides ongoing maintenance and support services to ensure that your OpenCart website is always up-to-date, secure, and functioning smoothly. This allows our clients to focus on their business while we take care of the technical aspects.

Are you planning to Hire the Best OpenCart Website Development Developer?

Choosing iTechnolabs for your OpenCart website development brings numerous advantages that set us apart in the industry. Our team not only possesses deep technical expertise but also a strong commitment to delivering high-quality, customized solutions tailored to meet your specific needs. We pride ourselves on our ability to understand your business goals and translate them into a seamless, user-friendly online experience. With iTechnolabs, you can expect innovative features, robust performance, and ongoing support to ensure your e-commerce platform thrives in the competitive market. Here are some key benefits of working with iTechnolabs:

• Expertise in OpenCart: Our developers have extensive experience and a thorough understanding of the OpenCart platform. This proficiency allows us to build powerful, scalable e-commerce websites tailored to your business needs.
• Tailored Solutions: At iTechnolabs, we recognize that every business is unique. We take the time to understand your specific requirements and craft solutions that align with your goals, ensuring you stand out in a competitive market.
• Seamless User Experience: We place a strong emphasis on creating websites that are not only visually appealing but also easy to navigate. Our designs focus on enhancing user experience, which can lead to higher customer satisfaction and increased conversion rates.
• Responsive and Mobile-Friendly Design: With the growing number of users accessing websites through mobile devices, our responsive design approach ensures your OpenCart website functions flawlessly across all screen sizes and devices.
• Integration Capabilities: We excel in integrating various third-party services and plugins, offering added functionality such as advanced payment systems, social media tools, and more. This integration helps expand your website’s capabilities without compromising performance.
• Ongoing Support and Maintenance: Our commitment doesn’t end with the launch of your website. We provide ongoing support and maintenance services to ensure your website remains up-to-date, secure, and running smoothly. This allows you to concentrate on growing your business.
• Cost-Effective Solutions: We understand the importance of budget management. Our solutions are designed to be cost-effective without sacrificing quality, offering you excellent value for your investment.

Conclusion:

At iTechnolabs, we strive to provide our clients with the best possible solutions that align with their business goals and cater to their unique needs. Our expertise in OpenCart development, combined with our commitment to excellent user experience, integration capabilities, ongoing support, and cost-effectiveness, makes us the ideal partner for your e-commerce website needs.  With our help, you can take your online business to new heights and stand out in a competitive market. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to create a website With Opencart?

The time it takes to create a website with OpenCart depends on the complexity of the project, as well as any specific customization or integration requirements. However, our team at iTechnolabs is dedicated to delivering high-quality solutions on time, and we work closely with our clients throughout the development process to ensure their satisfaction.

Can I build an App with an OpenCart?

Yes, it is possible to build a mobile app using OpenCart. With the increasing use of mobile devices for online shopping, having a user-friendly and responsive mobile app can greatly benefit your business. At iTechnolabs, we have experience in developing mobile apps using OpenCart that seamlessly integrates with your website and provide an enhanced user experience for your customers.

How to Migrate to OpenCart?

Migrating to OpenCart from another e-commerce platform can be a complex process, and it is important to ensure that all data and functionality are properly transferred. At iTechnolabs, we offer professional migration services to help you seamlessly transition your website to OpenCart. Our team will handle the entire process for you, ensuring that all data and settings are accurately transferred without any disruptions to your business operations.

Is Opencart SEO-friendly?

Yes, OpenCart is designed with SEO in mind. This means that it has features and tools that can help improve your website’s search engine rankings, making it more visible to potential customers. Additionally, our team at iTechnolabs has expertise in optimizing websites for search engines, and we incorporate SEO best practices into all of our OpenCart projects to ensure maximum visibility and reach for your business.