Yes, you can sell cannabis in Shopify. If you are in the United States and want to set up your store to sell cannabis or hemp. You can directly sell hemp or products that are derived from hemp. Please make sure that this is only for United States residents. Because you need to comply with the laws and restrictions if you are in a non-US-based country.
Now, Shopify mentions that you are allowed to sell hemp. Now, hemp is a type plant in cannabis sativa plant species. Because it does not produce high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Moreover, it has high concentrations of CBD. CBD full form is Cannabidiol used as a component in medicines for schizophrenia, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and anxiety.
Now, by this, you may have an idea that you are not going to use it only for legal purposes. And if you are thinking of making huge money through means that are prohibited, just because Shopify allows you to sell cannabis, then this is strictly prohibited. You won’t be allowed to make your store live.
Do you need a legal permit to sell Cannabis in Shopify?
Yes, in the United States; you need a legal permit to sell cannabis in Shopify that complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the laws in the jurisdictions of your customers.
Moreover, you will review and submit the attestation for the sale of hemp and hemp-derived products in your Shopify account.
How Can You Set up an Account in Shopify for Selling Cannabis?
Setting up a Shopify store to sell CBD products involves a few steps. Here’s a simplified guide for you. Please note that I am writing this for United States residents only.
Because the cannabis sale-related law differs by country. It may be a case where you may not be allowed by any means to conduct such business online. So, you need to be careful and company with your country’s laws. Or else consult a legal advisor for this.
Step 1: Creating Your Shopify Store:
1. Go to www.shopify.com/sell/cbd on your device.
2. Sign up for a trial store by following the instructions on the website. This will create your online shop where you can sell CBD products.
Step 2: Review and Submit the Attestation:
1. Once you’re logged into your Shopify store as the owner, find the Attestation for the Sale of Hemp and Hemp-Derived Products.
2. Read through it carefully to understand the rules and guidelines for selling CBD products.
3. Fill out the form as required. This is important before you can sell any CBD products in your store.
4. After you submit the form, **wait for Shopify to process it**. You won’t get an immediate response, but the process will continue automatically.
Step 3: Applying for a Payment Gateway:
1. Shopify Payments doesn’t work for CBD products, so you need a different payment method.
2. Choose one of the approved third-party payment gateways like Bankful or DigiPay.
3. Apply for the gateway by following the link provided for the specific gateway you choose. Each gateway might have different rules for approval.
Step 4: Setting Up Customer Notifications:
1. For CBD product orders and shipping, you can only send notifications through email, not SMS messages.
2. Disable SMS notifications for your customers and set up email-only notifications for orders and shipping. This helps your customers stay updated on their purchases.
Final Words:
Remember, selling CBD products has special rules, especially in the United States, so it’s important to follow these steps carefully and understand the guidelines before you start selling.
If you have any questions, ask a legal advisor or someone who can help you with these steps.
