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    Steps for creating a multi-language Shopify store

    • September 26, 2023
    • 4 min

    If the majority of your clients do not understand your native language, you may want to consider switching the language of your Shopify store. Furthermore, when expanding into new areas, many merchants find that Shopify's language settings need to be updated. Shopify makes it simple to change the language. However, there are several sides that need your attention, such as the checkout and translation of your theme's content. In this blog, you will find steps to create a multi-language Shopify store.

    The first method to create a multi-language Shopify store

    The idea behind this approach is to add support for more languages. The user’s browser will be able to choose the most appropriate language for them. In the event that a user encounters a language they don’t understand, the online store would include a dropdown menu for them to pick their preferred language. It’s a good strategy for cutting down on the quantity of new sites you launch in different countries. One website is sufficient for all locations, and businesses may still expand their consumer base in this way. Here are some steps you need to follow:

    • Log in to your Shopify account. Go to Shopify admin>Settings
    • In the Settings panel, click on languages.
    • Now, Click on ‘Add a language’.
    • When you click on it, a popup will appear.
    • You can select the language of your choice in the drop-down menu. After selecting a language, click on ‘Add’.

    Keep in mind that certain languages are translated professionally to provide a smoother transition from English. However, not all languages have accurate, reliable translations. To get a somewhat accurate translation of the content on your website, Shopify uses automatic translation tools like Google Translate. This might be useful, but in order to get the greatest results, you’ll likely need to provide your own content translations.

    Publish the languages

    By adding a new language, it is not automatically published in your online shop. Shopify’s unpublished languages may be found at the bottom of the store languages page. The change won’t show in the shop until you click the Publish button. Furthermore, you can see how professional and automatic translations will look with your Shopify theme by clicking the Preview button. If you are satisfied with the preview of the store, click on ‘Publish’. The newly added language will be marked as ‘Published’ beside the English language.

    Add market for the multi-language Shopify store

    Shopify’s ‘markets’ feature allows you to cater to customers in countries you don’t normally ship to by providing them with support for their local language and currency. To improve regional customization, retailers can expand into new markets.

    • There is a link labeled ‘Go To Markets’ on the store languages page.
    • Pick the ‘International market’ to easily add the market instead of selecting an individual market for each language.
    • Make sure you assign the language to it else the language will not appear to the people of that region.
    • At last, click on activate.

    The second method to create a multi-language Shopify store

    It takes time and effort to learn how to switch languages on Shopify, since you will frequently need to provide your own translations and the theme may not be compatible with your selections. A language translation app becomes the best choice in this situation. Some notable translation apps for Shopify are Langify, LangShop, Bablic Translation, and Transcy.

    You should try out several translation applications to find the one that works best for your business. In addition to the above-mentioned applications, there are other apps that give human translations.

    Steps to use the app to create a multi-language Shopify store

    To add multiple languages through the Shopify app store, add the Shopify app to the online store. Thereafter, go to Shopify Admin>Apps. Go to the app you added and select the language in the app. After selecting the language, publish it. Thus, it becomes quite easy to make a multi-language Shopify store using translation apps.

    Conclusion

    If you want to attract customers from all over the world, you should open a Shopify shop that supports multiple languages. Maintaining your multilingual shop’s success in expanding into new areas requires constant attention and fine-tuning. Providing your goods and services in more than one language may enhance your customer’s shopping experience and, perhaps, boost your revenue.

    FAQs

    Do I need a separate Shopify plan to create a multi-language store?
    No, you can create a multi-language store on most Shopify plans. Language translation apps are third-party tools that work with your existing plan.
    Can I use multiple language translation apps for different sections of my store?
    It’s not recommended to use multiple language translation apps simultaneously, as they may conflict with each other. Thus, choose one comprehensive app to handle all translations.
    What should I consider when choosing a language translation app for Shopify?
    Consider factors such as language support, ease of use, SEO capabilities, and your budget when selecting an app. Read user reviews and seek recommendations to make an informed choice.
    How can I handle inventory and shipping for international orders in a multi-language store?
    You can use various Shopify features and apps to handle international inventory and shipping, including setting up shipping zones and adjusting currency and pricing.
    Is it possible to switch between languages automatically based on the user's location?
    Yes, some language translation apps allow you to set up automatic language detection and redirection based on the user’s location.

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