Transferring a Shopify store to a new owner or developer involves several steps. Here is how to do it properly.
Transferring Ownership
Shopify allows you to transfer store ownership through the admin panel. The current owner initiates the transfer, and the new owner accepts. All store data — products, orders, customers, domains — transfers with the account.
What Transfers
Store settings, theme, products, customer data, order history, domain, and app configurations all transfer. Payment accounts (Shopify Payments, PayPal) must be set up separately by the new owner.
What Does Not Transfer
Payment gateways need reconfiguration. Third-party app subscriptions must be transferred or re-subscribed. Email marketing integrations need reconnection.
Developer Transfer
If you are handing over to a developer for management, grant them Staff access with appropriate permissions. Do not transfer full ownership unless the developer is taking over the business.
Pre-Transfer Checklist
Back up all data before transferring. Document current settings and configurations. Cancel unused app subscriptions. Transfer domain if needed. Notify customers of any relevant changes.
A clean transfer ensures the new owner can run the store without technical issues.