How to Build and Transfer a Shopify Development Store

Creating a Shopify development store is a crucial step for developers, agencies, and freelancers working on eCommerce projects. Whether you’re building a store for a client or testing out new features, a Shopify development store allows you to work in a controlled environment before going live.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of setting up a Shopify development store and transferring ownership to a client when it’s ready.

Introduction

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of setting up a Shopify development store and transferring ownership to a client when it’s ready.

What is a Shopify Development Store?

A Shopify development store is a free store created via the Shopify Partner Program. It allows developers to:

Test themes and apps before launching
Build and customize stores for clients
Access Shopify’s full feature set without paying for a plan (until the store is transferred)

Step 1: Sign Up for the Shopify Partner Program

Before you can create a development store, you need to be a Shopify Partner.

Go to the Shopify Partner Program and sign up.
Complete the registration process by providing your business details.
Once approved, access your Shopify Partner Dashboard.

Step 2: Create a Development Store

From the Shopify Partner Dashboard, navigate to Stores > Add Store.
Choose Development Store and enter store details:
- Store name
- Store URL (this will be a temporary Shopify URL)
- Store purpose (e.g., building for a client)
Click Create Store.

Default Features of a Development Store

Unlimited time for testing
Access to most Shopify features
Ability to install free and paid themes
Ability to test Shopify apps

Step 3: Customize and Develop the Store

Once your store is set up, you can start building and customizing it.

1. Choose a Theme

Navigate to Online Store > Themes
Select a free theme or upload a custom one
Customize the design using the Theme Editor

2. Add Products

Go to Products > Add Product
Upload images, set prices, and add descriptions
Organize products into Collections

3. Configure Store Settings

Set up payment gateways (Shopify Payments, PayPal, Stripe)
Adjust Shipping & Taxes
Enable SEO settings for better visibility

Step 4: Test the Store Functionality

Before transferring the store, conduct a thorough test to ensure everything works correctly.

✅ Test the checkout process with Shopify’s Bogus Gateway
✅ Ensure theme customizations display correctly on all devices
✅ Verify that email notifications and automation settings are working

Step 5: Transfer the Shopify Development Store to a Client

Once the store is ready, you need to transfer ownership to your client.

Go to Your Partner Dashboard
- Click on Stores > Select the development store
Click on ‘Transfer Ownership’
- Under the Settings, select Transfer Store
Assign the New Owner
- Enter the client’s email
- Shopify will send them an invitation to accept ownership
Client Accepts the Transfer
- They need to log in, accept the ownership, and choose a Shopify plan
Your Partner Access is Retained
- After transfer, you’ll still have collaborator access unless removed by the client

Conclusion

Setting up a Shopify development store and transferring it is a straightforward process that allows developers to deliver fully functional eCommerce stores to clients. By following these steps, you ensure a smooth handover while maintaining access for future updates.

Need Help with Shopify Development?

At Coders Create, we specialize in Shopify store development, customization, and seamless transfers. Contact us today for expert assistance!

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