How to Set Up International Shipping on Shopify [Step by Step 2026 Guide]
Introduction
Expanding your Shopify store to international customers isn’t just about ticking a “worldwide shipping” box, it’s a full-scale growth strategy. Whether you’re targeting Europe, Asia, or North America, setting up international shipping on Shopify allows you to reach new audiences, boost global sales, and future-proof your business against local market fluctuations. The best part? Shopify already gives you the tools to do it.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to configure global shipping zones, assign regional rates, and even automate carriers with third-party apps, all while ensuring compliance with taxes, duties, and delivery expectations.
Recommended Read: Before setting up shipping, make sure your Shopify store name and Shopify URL reflect your brand’s global identity for better international recognition.
Why Offer International Shipping on Shopify?
Offering International Shipping allows businesses to expand their business to reach customers around the world. It provides greater benefits to the businesses, such as:
- You can reach a larger audience around the world instead of selling domestically.
- Selling to International customers can increase your sales and revenue.
- You can offer products to customers who do not have access to the product locally.
- Selling to multiple countries can make your store less vulnerable.
Methods for setting up International Shipping
There are different methods on how to set up international shipping on Shopify. Some of these are listed below:
- Using Shopify Markets
- Using the Shopify Theme Settings
- Install a Shopify App
Method 1: Using Shopify Markets
Shopify Markets are the built-in method for International shipping. Navigate to Shopify Admin > Shopify Markets and add the market. Include the countries in the market and set up the shipping rates. Follow these steps to add International shipping using the Shopify Markets.
Step 1: Navigate to Shopify Admin > Markets.
Step 2: Update the existing one or create a new market.
Step 3: Add the name of the Market and include the countries here.
Step 4: Select the countries and click the Done button.
Step 5: Save the changes.
Step 6: Optionally, you can add tax and duties from here as well for that market.
Pro Tip: Pair this setup with our Shopify B2B & Wholesale Channel if you plan to sell internationally to bulk or business customers.
Method 2: Using the Shopify Theme Settings
In this step, you can offer International Shipping using the built-in Shopify settings. There is no need to add apps or third-party providers to enable that feature. Follow these steps to provide international shipping using the Theme settings.
Step 1: Navigate to Shopify Admin > Settings.
Step 2: Scroll down to the Shipping and delivery section.
Step 3: Open the existing profile or create a new one by clicking the Create Custom Profile button.
Step 4: Click the Add shipping zone button.
Step 5: Add the zone name and include the countries that you want to add here, and click the Done button.
Step 6: Click on the Add rate button.
Step 7: Name your rate, adjust the price, and click the Done button.
Step 8: Click on the Add Conditional Pricing button for advanced pricing.
Step 9: Set the Shipping price based on the weight or order price.
Step 8: Save the changes.
Method 3: Install a Shopify App
If you want more control over International shipping and want to automate your Shipping carriers instead of manually creating them, the Shopify apps can provide great help. Follow these steps to install the app.
Step 1: Navigate to Shopify Admin > Apps.
Step 2: Click on the Apps and sales channel button.
Step 3: Visit the Shopify App Store.
Step 4: Search for the app, such as DHL Express.
Step 5: Install the App.
Step 6: Reconfirm the installation process from the Shopify Admin.
Step 7: Log in to your Account or create an account to get started for free.
Step 8: After completing the setup, follow the app guide to configure and integrate with your Shopify Store.
Conclusion
Setting up international shipping on Shopify opens the door to true global growth. Whether you manage it directly through Shopify Markets, manually configure shipping zones and rates, or use automation apps like DHL Express, you can customize every detail to match your brand’s reach and logistics goals.
To fully optimize your store for international performance, consider partnering with professionals:
Take your eCommerce brand global, start with the right setup, optimize your SEO, and deliver products worldwide with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Live Chat