How To Start a CBD Dropshipping Shopify in 2024 + Top Suppliers
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Looking to start a CBD dropshipping Shopify business? Dive into this guide to discover the essentials—from understanding the basics of CBD to navigating Shopify’s regulations and finding a reliable CBD supplier to ensure product quality and customer trust.
I’ll explore the steps to launch your store successfully and unlock insights on how to build a profitable CBD business in 2024.
Ready to tap into the booming CBD market with expert tips and top products?
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Key Takeaways
- Compliance is Critical: Ensure you follow Shopify’s CBD policies and understand local regulations for selling CBD products.
- Choose High-Quality Suppliers: Look for suppliers offering Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to guarantee product purity and safety, boosting customer trust.
- Use a Third-Party Payment Processor: Shopify Payments doesn’t support CBD transactions; reliable options include DigiPay and Square for secure processing.
- Select In-Demand CBD Products: Popular choices include CBD oils, gummies, topicals, and pet treats, each catering to specific customer demographics.
- Build a Strong Brand Identity: Use clean designs, high-quality product images, and detailed descriptions to create a professional, trustworthy brand.
- Optimize for SEO and Marketing: Use SEO-rich keywords like “CBD tinctures” and “hemp-derived CBD” to attract organic traffic, and consider influencer partnerships to boost visibility.
- Stay Updated on Legal Changes: CBD laws evolve frequently; staying informed is essential for long-term business compliance and success.
What is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is an active ingredient present in the Cannabis sativa plant or hemp.
However, it does not cause a “high” by itself because it contains low doses of or no THC at all. And THC is what is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
CBD products are most commonly used for health and beauty purposes. They are reportedly used to help with a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, epilepsy, skin conditions, etc.
How To Start a CBD Dropshipping Shopify Store in 2024 [My Step-by-Step Guide]
Step 1 – Choose High-Quality CBD Products for Your Dropshipping Business
To start a CBD dropshipping business, your first task is to select high-quality products that will resonate with your customers.
I suggest finding premium CBD products like CBD oils, tinctures, or CBD-infused products by partnering with reliable suppliers.
For example, you can try SmokeDrop as they’re known for their quality and transparency.
For product research, I recommend using Google Trends to identify current demand for specific keywords like “CBD tinctures” or “hemp-derived products.”
Also, tools like Minea are great for tracking popular products, customer engagement, and competitor strategies.
By starting with in-demand, quality products, your CBD dropshipping store can appeal to a loyal customer base.
Step 2 – Know Your Target Audience and Tailor Product Selection
To create a successful CBD dropshipping business, I advise tailoring your product selection based on your customers’ specific needs. For instance:
- Wellness Seekers: You can focus on CBD oils and tinctures for relaxation or sleep support.
- Pet Owners: Try offering pet CBD oils or treats to target this niche.
- Athletes: Consider CBD-infused products for muscle relief and recovery.
For market research, I recommend using the Meta Ads Library to analyze how competitors are marketing their products.
This insight helps you refine your descriptions, images, and messaging to align with your target audience’s needs. By creating customized product categories, you can improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Step 3 – Fill Out and Submit the Shopify Attestation Form for Selling Hemp Products
To sell CBD products on Shopify, you must complete Shopify’s Attestation for the Sale of Hemp and Hemp-Derived Products if you’re based in the U.S.
I recommend logging into your Shopify account, filling out the form, and submitting it to stay compliant with Shopify’s CBD policies.
This form confirms you’re authorized to sell hemp-derived CBD products and is processed automatically, so you won’t need to wait for approval before starting to sell.
Since CBD regulations frequently change, I advise you to keep up-to-date with Shopify’s policy changes. This will keep your dropshipping business compliant and safeguard your store’s future in this highly regulated market.
Step 4 – Select a Third-Party Payment Processor That Supports CBD Sales
For CBD dropshipping, you can’t use Shopify Payments because CBD is considered high-risk. Instead, I recommend setting up a third-party payment processor.
For instance, DigiPay is a reliable option that works well with CBD products on Shopify. However, some other options include Square and Pinwheel, which can handle high-risk payments and ensure smooth transactions.
Step 5 – Partner with Reliable CBD Dropshipping Suppliers Who Offer Lab Testing
A crucial part of running a CBD dropshipping business is partnering with reliable CBD suppliers who provide Certificates of Analysis (COAs).
I recommend looking at suppliers like Joy Organics or Absolute Nature CBD; both have reputations for quality and transparency, and they offer COAs for their products.
COAs assure your customers that your hemp-derived products are safe and free from contaminants.
Displaying these certificates on your product pages can build trust and boost conversions. It’s a straightforward way to stand out and show you prioritize high-quality CBD products.
For example, I use the Dropshipping.com supplier directory to find reliable CBD dropshipping suppliers.
The platform gives me valuable insights about each supplier like product offerings, product costs, MOQ, shipping info, order processing time, etc.
Step 6 – Build a Strong Brand Identity for Your CBD Dropshipping Store
To set your store apart, I suggest creating a cohesive, trustworthy brand identity. So, you can use Canva or Shopify’s Hatchful to design a logo that reflects quality and wellness.
Choose soothing colors and clean layouts that resonate with a wellness-focused audience.
Moreover, Shopify themes like Minimal or Debutify are excellent for creating a professional, reliable look for your CBD dropshipping Shopify store.
Including high-quality images and detailed descriptions for your CBD products is essential. This way, you can create a memorable shopping experience and encourage customers to return.
Step 7 – Optimize Your Shopify Store for CBD Dropshipping
A well-designed Shopify store is essential for CBD dropshipping success. I recommend using Shopify’s customization options to fine-tune fonts, colors, and layouts to reflect your brand.
Make sure to optimize product pages with SEO-rich keywords like “CBD tinctures,” “hemp-derived CBD,” and “sell CBD products” to attract organic traffic.
Moreover, I suggest you consider adding apps like Booster SEO to enhance searchability, Yotpo for gathering customer reviews, and ReConvert for post-purchase upsells.
With these tools, you can boost traffic, increase engagement, and drive repeat business in your CBD dropshipping store.
Step 8 – Develop a Targeted Marketing Strategy for Your CBD Dropshipping Store
To grow your CBD business, visibility is key. For organic traffic, I suggest using SEO keywords like “CBD dropshipping business,” “sell CBD products,” and “hemp-derived products.”
Thus, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are ideal for showcasing customer testimonials, educating potential buyers, and sharing CBD-related tips.
Moreover, collaborating with wellness influencers can also help you reach a highly engaged audience.
For ads, I recommend using Klaviyo for email marketing and AdEspresso to manage Facebook and Instagram ads effectively.
Running limited-time offers on popular products can further encourage conversions, especially with new customers.
Step 9 – Focus on Customer Satisfaction and Communication
Excellent customer service is essential for a CBD dropshipping store.
I suggest using Tidio to manage customer inquiries, especially questions about COAs, product ingredients, and order statuses.
Moreover, order and shipping notifications can help manage expectations, so customers stay informed throughout the buying process. For example, ShipBob is an excellent dropshipping service provider that handles the whole shipping process and offers fast delivery.
Transparency and consistent communication are key. By focusing on customer satisfaction, you’ll boost your store’s reputation, which is especially important in a competitive, regulated CBD industry.
Step 10 – Ensure Compliance with Local Regulations and Legal Requirements
Since CBD laws vary by state and country, it’s important to research and comply with local requirements before you start selling.
You might need a general business license or a Hemp Handler’s License to operate legally. Keeping your store compliant with CBD regulations builds trust with customers and protects your business.
By following these steps, you’ll create a CBD dropshipping Shopify store that stands out for quality, compliance, and customer satisfaction. This is your foundation for a thriving, profitable business in the CBD market.
What To Consider When Dropshipping CBD on Shopify? Key Factors
Dropshipping CBD products on Shopify involves understanding specific requirements to ensure a smooth, compliant operation. From navigating CBD regulations to selecting the right dropshipping suppliers, here’s what you need to know.
1. Recognizing Legal Requirements for Selling CBD
CBD products, while often non-intoxicating, are part of a highly regulated market. Compliance with federal and state CBD regulations is essential, especially when dealing with hemp-derived CBD.
Federal law allows hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC, but individual states may impose additional rules.
For instance, if your dropshipping suppliers offer CBD oils with trace THC amounts, you’ll need to verify compliance with both your store’s location and your customers’ local laws.
2. Age Restrictions and CBD Products
Selling CBD products often requires verifying that customers meet minimum age requirements, typically 18 or 21. This is especially crucial if your store sells CBD tinctures or CBD oils.
For instance, many Shopify stores use age-verification pop-ups from the Shopify App Store to manage this. Thus, you can simply type in “age verification”, and you can see that there are over 680 apps available right at this moment.
Example: A CBD seller with a focus on premium CBD products can install an app to ensure only eligible visitors view product pages.
3. Shopify’s CBD Sales Requirements
CBD sellers on Shopify must follow platform rules, such as selling only hemp-derived cannabidiol and avoiding therapeutic claims unless FDA-approved.
Shopify requires compliance with local laws where you operate and where you ship.
So, as a dropshipping CBD Shopify store featuring high-quality products like CBD tinctures and CBD oils, you should list each product’s THC content to attract customers while staying compliant.
4. Choosing a Payment Processor for CBD Transactions
Because Shopify Payments doesn’t support CBD sales, a third-party payment processor is necessary.
Based on Shopify, your best options are DigiPay and Bankful. These two specialize in processing CBD payments, though they have their own approval processes.
5. Managing Notifications and Building Customer Trust
When selling hemp-derived CBD, note that Shopify restricts SMS notifications.
Only email is available for order and shipping notifications, so focus on using high-quality images and product descriptions to attract customers.
Is CBD Legal?
The legal status of CBD has been in flux in the United States. The good news is that CBD (with less than 0.3% THC) is now legal in all 50 U.S. States.
It is also legal in Europe. However, according to EU law, you can sell CBD products unless they exceed 0.2% THC.
This is part of the reason that the CBD industry has seen a steady rise in e-commerce sales.
Namely, online CBD sales in the United States only, are expected to increase to approximately $4.671 billion in 2024.
Top 10 Dropshipping Suppliers of CBD Products
Do you have deep pockets and significant botanical expertise to manufacture your own CBD products? Just kidding! You want to start a dropshipping business, right?
Therefore, you need to choose a dropshipping supplier that can send CBD products straight to your customers. Here is a list of the best suppliers in the industry:
1. CBD Essence
Founded in 2014, CBD Essence is renowned for its high-quality, pure, and organic CBD products produced in small batches.
This supplier offers a variety of products, including CBD oil tinctures, capsules, gummies, topicals, and pet products, all of which align with the demand for premium CBD products.
The price range for CBD Essence products generally falls between $20 and $70 depending on the product type.
They provide fast shipping within 24 hours of order to ensure freshness, and they offer free shipping on orders over $49 within the US, making them an appealing option for a CBD dropshipping store focused on customer satisfaction.
2. US Hemp Wholesale
US Hemp Wholesale claims to be a pioneer in the global hemp market. It offers a wide range of hemp-derived CBD oil products, edibles, skincare & topicals, etc.
Their pricing ranges from $15 to $90, depending on the product. Moreover, processing and shipping are usually completed within 1-3 business days for domestic orders, making this supplier a strong choice for those seeking a reliable CBD dropshipping business option.
Are you prepared to join the world of CBD dropshipping? If so, why not join forces with this dropshipping supplier?
But to do so, you need to be a US-based online seller, have an established URL for your site, and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
US Hemp Wholesale also offers white-label and private label dropshipping services.
3. Margaret River Hemp Co.
Based in Australia, Margaret River Hemp Co. specializes in a range of hemp-based products that include hemp foods, skincare products, clothing, and pet items.
Their price range is typically between $10 and $80, depending on the product category. Due to their Australian base, international shipping can take up to 21 business days, which may affect delivery times for overseas dropshipping stores.
This supplier caters to customers interested in high-quality hemp derived products and is ideal for stores targeting eco-conscious consumers in the CBD community.
4. Eco Sciences
Eco Sciences is a US-based supplier that offers a variety of CBD tinctures, capsules, creams, gummies, drinks, and pet products.
With a pricing range from $15 to $80, they serve a broad audience in the CBD industry. However, orders must be placed manually since Eco Sciences currently lacks Shopify integration.
Their products ship from Newport Beach, California, with an average processing time of 1-2 business days.
This supplier is suited for online stores that prioritize US-made, high-quality CBD products and are willing to manage orders manually.
5. Charlotte’s Web
Known as a respected name in the CBD market, Charlotte’s Web provides a range of high-quality hemp-derived products designed to improve well-being naturally.
With product prices between $20 and $100, Charlotte’s Web focuses on quality and customer satisfaction.
Based in the United States, they offer free shipping on orders over $74 within the US.
This supplier also has a CBD dropshipping program and it requires an e-commerce website, a compatible shopping cart, and an approved CBD merchant processor upon launch, making it an option worth watching for a successful CBD dropshipping business.
6. Inventory Source
Inventory Source is not a CBD dropshipping supplier. But what is it, then? It is one of the best Shopify dropshipping apps – it allows you to automatically upload products and place orders with dropshipping suppliers to your Shopify store.
If you want to start a CBD dropshipping Shopify business, Inventory Source is an app to install.
By using this app, you will surely find a trustworthy CBD dropshipping supplier based on your needs.
7. Green Roads
Green Roads is a popular supplier in the CBD industry, known for its pharmacist-formulated CBD oils, gummies, capsules, and topicals. They emphasize quality and transparency, making them a reputable choice for any CBD dropshipping store.
Also, their product prices typically range between $20 and $80, depending on the item. Green Roads offers fast shipping within 1-2 business days for domestic orders, ensuring timely delivery to customers.
This supplier is particularly ideal for dropshippers aiming to provide high quality products backed by third-party lab testing, catering to a discerning audience within the CBD market.
8. Joy Organics
Joy Organics offers a range of USDA-certified organic CBD products, including tinctures, softgels, topicals, gummies, and pet products.
Known for their commitment to quality, they focus on providing THC-free and broad-spectrum options.
Moreover, their products range from $25 to $90 and are well-suited for customers prioritizing purity and organic certifications.
Shipping is quick, with processing times within 24 hours and typical delivery in 2-3 business days. For a dropshipping CBD store emphasizing premium, organic CBD products, Joy Organics provides both quality assurance and quick shipping to enhance customer satisfaction.
9. HempMeds
With an extensive catalog, HempMeds offers a variety of hemp-derived CBD products, including CBD oils, capsules, skincare items, and edibles.
Thus, their pricing is competitive, ranging from $10 to $70, and appeals to a wide range of budgets.
Based in the United States, HempMeds generally processes orders within 1-2 business days, with shipping taking an additional 2-5 business days. For those looking to diversify their CBD dropshipping business with reputable suppliers that offer both high-end and affordable options, HempMeds is an excellent choice.
10. Direct CBD Online
Direct CBD Online serves as a marketplace for multiple CBD brands, providing an expansive selection, including CBD tinctures, edibles, vapes, topicals, and pet products.
With prices ranging from $15 to $100, they cater to various customer preferences and budgets. Orders are processed within 24-48 hours, and they offer free shipping on orders over $65.
Direct CBD Online is ideal for dropshippers who want to offer a diverse range of CBD products and find a reliable CBD dropshipping supplier to support different customer needs within one platform.
8 Profitable CBD Products To Dropship On Shopify in 2024
As you can see, some of the most common hemp-derived CBD products available nowadays include topicals and edibles.
Sure, you can add some of the following products to your dropshipping store:
1. CBD Oil Tinctures
CBD oil tinctures stand as a must-have product in the CBD dropshipping business due to their popularity among consumers seeking natural wellness solutions.
Tinctures from hemp-derived CBD offer benefits without intoxicating cannabis compounds, making them suitable for a wider audience, which enhances their appeal.
The target audience includes adults aged 25-45 who focus on natural remedies and stress relief. With supplier prices between $8 and $15 and a market price range from $30 to $70, this product can offer a profit margin of up to 100%.
According to Google Trends, interest in CBD tinctures continues to grow, showing promise for anyone starting a CBD dropshipping store on platforms like Shopify.
With a reliable CBD dropshipping supplier and high-quality images, you can easily attract customers to your CBD dropshipping Shopify store and tap into a highly regulated market that prioritizes non-prescription cannabis products.
2. CBD Gummies
CBD gummies are a top choice for dropshipping CBD products.
They are ideal for younger demographics aged 18-35 who want functional snacks that promote relaxation and well-being.
Moreover, the supplier prices for CBD gummies range between $5 and $10, while they sell for $25 to $40 in the CBD market, offering a potential profit margin of around 70-90%.
Also, Google Trends reflects consistent demand for CBD gummies, suggesting that these CBD-infused products can drive CBD sales as part of your successful CBD dropshipping business.
So, a dropshipping store that sells CBD products can achieve impressive customer engagement by using premium CBD products from reliable suppliers in the CBD industry.
3. CBD Capsules
For CBD sellers looking to cater to older demographics, CBD capsules make an excellent addition to a CBD dropshipping business.
Capsules offer precise dosing and appeal to adults aged 30-50 seeking convenient wellness solutions.
With supplier prices between $10 and $20 and market prices ranging from $40 to $80, capsules offer a 60-80% profit margin.
Moreover, Google Trends indicates that CBD capsules have become increasingly popular in the CBD community.
By sourcing from reputable suppliers, dropshippers can capitalize on the capsule trend in the CBD industry through their online business.
4. CBD Topicals (Creams and Balms)
CBD topicals, like creams and balms, are designed for localized relief and attract an audience aged 30-60 looking to manage pain or skin issues naturally.
As an essential part of the CBD dropshipping store, topicals show a steady growth in Google Trends searches, making them one of the best-selling CBD products.
Moreover, with supplier costs ranging from $10 to $25 and retail prices from $40 to $100, these products yield a profit margin of around 80%.
When selling hemp-derived products, especially in a Shopify store, make sure to adhere to CBD regulations and include order and shipping notifications to enhance customer satisfaction.
5. CBD Pet Treats
CBD pet treats represent a unique segment in the CBD industry with growing demand. They appeal to pet owners aged 25-45 who consider their pets’ well-being a priority.
These treats, hemp derived and tailored for animals, are sourced at $6 to $15 and retail between $20 and $50, offering a solid profit margin of around 85%.
Moreover, Google Trends shows increasing interest in pets CBD oils and other hemp products for animals, indicating a strong future for CBD pet treats.
For anyone looking to sell CBD to pet owners, this product could be a significant addition to a CBD dropshipping store focused on CBD infused products.
6. CBD Bath Bombs
CBD bath bombs merge relaxation with the wellness benefits of CBD products, appealing especially to younger, wellness-focused demographics aged 20-40.
Moreover, the supplier prices are around $3 to $7, while these bombs retail for up to $20, allowing for profit margins as high as 80- 90%.
Demand for CBD bath products remains strong, as shown by Google Trends. However, the months between January and May are best for dropshipping these products.
7. CBD Vape Pens
CBD vape pens attract customers looking for fast-acting CBD solutions. With an audience primarily aged 18-35, vape pens are ideal for consumers familiar with vaping CBD gummies and other hemp products.
What’s more, supplier prices generally range from $15 to $30, with market prices reaching $50 to $100, creating a profit margin of around 80%.
Also, Google Trends data shows a high interest in CBD vape products, and these items can be a significant part of a CBD dropshipping Shopify store aimed at the CBD community.
8. CBD Sleep Aids
With an ever-growing interest in natural sleep solutions, CBD sleep aids are ideal for dropshipping. They attract adults aged 30-50 facing sleep disorders or high stress levels.
The supplier price range for sleep aids is between $10 and $20, and they are sold in the CBD market for $35 to $70, yielding a potential profit margin of around 60- 85%.
Also, Google Trends shows that CBD and sleep-related searches are gaining traction, making CBD sleep aids a valuable addition to an online store focused on selling CBD products.
Each of these products not only provides a strong profit margin but also meets high demand across various segments in the CBD industry, creating excellent opportunities for a CBD drop shipping business with access to reliable CBD dropshipping suppliers.
By sourcing high quality products from reputable suppliers and adhering to local laws and CBD regulations, your CBD dropshipping Shopify store can thrive in this highly regulated market.
Is It Possible To Start CBD Dropshipping With Shopify?
Yes, you can sell products that contain CBD on Shopify. To start a CBD dropshipping Shopify business, you need to set up a Shopify store first.
But you cannot sell such products to any country you want. You should not rush to incorporate hemp or hemp-derived products that contain CBD in your product offerings.
Remember that although CBD is legal in the United States and Europe, it is not the end of the story.
You must learn more about and comply with the laws surrounding hemp and hemp-derived products that might apply to your online business. Needless to say, it is also a good idea to consult legal counsel before dropshipping such products.
Dropshipping Niche Idea: Dropshipping Medical Supplies (+Product Ideas).
Conclusion
Starting a CBD dropshipping Shopify business is an exciting venture with incredible growth potential.
However, remember that success in this niche requires more than just adding products to your store.
Compliance is key—ensure you understand and follow Shopify’s CBD policies and local regulations to avoid any issues down the road.
Moreover, prioritize high-quality suppliers who provide third-party lab testing, as this builds trust with your customers and reinforces your brand’s credibility.
Most importantly, take time to research your target audience and select products that meet their needs, whether it’s CBD oils for wellness seekers or treats for pet owners. With the right approach and dedication, you can build a thriving CBD dropshipping business on Shopify. Good luck!