Updated October 2026
What should a Shopify SEO checklist include?
A Shopify SEO checklist should cover store settings, duplicate URLs, collection and product content, apps and speed, structured data, and Google Merchant Center. These areas cause most organic traffic problems on Shopify stores.
Store settings
- Remove the storefront password so the store can be indexed.
- Connect your primary domain and redirect all other domains to it.
- Verify the store in Google Search Console and submit
/sitemap.xml. - Set the homepage title and meta description in Online Store preferences.
URLs and duplication
- Make theme links point to
/products/handle, not/collections/x/products/handle. - Keep product and collection handles short and descriptive.
- Add a 301 redirect in URL Redirects whenever you change a handle.
- Stop filtered collection URLs being indexed unless they target real searches.
Collections and products
- Write a unique title tag and meta description for every important collection and product.
- Add helpful collection copy, such as sizing and buying advice.
- Rewrite manufacturer descriptions for your best sellers.
- Add descriptive alt text to product images.
- Keep temporarily out-of-stock products live; redirect discontinued ones.
Apps and speed
- Remove apps you do not use, and leftover code from removed apps.
- Compress images before upload and avoid autoplay video in the hero.
- Check Core Web Vitals in Search Console for product and collection templates.
Structured data and feeds
- Check that each product page has one valid Product schema, with no duplicate from a review app.
- Include price, availability, brand and GTIN where available.
- Add shipping and returns details to your Merchant Center settings.
- Connect Google & YouTube for free listings in Google Shopping.
What is the most common Shopify SEO mistake?
The most common Shopify SEO mistake is thin collection pages: a title and a product grid with nothing to tell shoppers or Google what makes the range different.
Want help? See our Shopify SEO service.