How-to's · Shopify · 2 min read
Can You Sell CBD on Shopify?
Short answer
Yes, in the United States Shopify allows merchants to sell hemp-derived CBD products if they accept Shopify's hemp requirements, use a third-party payment provider that supports hemp sales, and comply with federal, state and local laws. Some features, such as SMS notifications and Shopify POS hardware that relies on Shopify Payments, are not available for hemp products.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. CBD regulation is complex and changes, so talk to a lawyer who knows your state's rules.
What Shopify allows
Shopify's help center covers selling hemp products for US merchants (and cannabis for Canadian merchants under separate rules). To sell hemp-derived CBD on Shopify in the US, you must:
- Accept Shopify's hemp requirements for your country.
- Use a third-party payment provider that supports hemp sales.
- Follow all federal, state and local laws, plus policies of Shopify, apps and your providers.
Payments
Many mainstream processors decline CBD. Shopify lists options for hemp payments in its help center. Expect higher processing fees and more underwriting than ordinary products.
Features with limits
- SMS notifications are not supported for hemp products, so use email notifications.
- Shopify POS hardware that requires Shopify Payments cannot be used; use your provider's card reader.
- Shipping labels: only with carriers that allow hemp shipments. Use shipping profiles to restrict where products ship.
Compliance basics
- Certificates of analysis (COAs) from accredited labs, available to customers.
- Labelling that meets state requirements.
- Age restrictions where required.
- No unproven health claims. Regulators have issued warning letters for claims about treating diseases.
- State-by-state rules: some states restrict certain products or ingredients.
Marketing CBD
Ad platforms limit CBD ads. Organic channels matter more: SEO, email, content and communities. See 7 SEO tips for Shopify and ecommerce email marketing strategies.
Writing compliant product pages
CBD product pages need extra care. Good practice includes:
- Accurate cannabinoid content per serving and per package, matching the lab report.
- Link to the certificate of analysis for each batch.
- Ingredients and usage directions without medical claims.
- Clear warnings where required, such as pregnancy or medication interactions recommended by your legal advisor.
- Neutral language: describe the product, not what it supposedly cures. Phrases like "treats anxiety" or "relieves pain" can attract regulatory action.
Choosing a payment provider
When comparing hemp-friendly payment providers, ask about:
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Processing rates and monthly fees | High-risk categories often cost more |
| Reserves or rolling holds | Some providers hold a percentage of sales |
| Contract length and termination fees | Flexibility if you need to switch |
| Chargeback handling | Disputes are costly in this category |
| Shopify compatibility | Must work with Shopify checkout under its hemp rules |
Read contracts carefully before signing and keep a backup option in mind; providers in this space change policies.
Age verification and shipping limits
Some states and products require age verification. Apps can add age gates or verification at checkout. Use Shopify shipping profiles to block shipping to locations where your products are not allowed, and keep those settings updated as laws change.
Keeping records
Store lab reports, supplier documentation and product formulations in one place. If a payment provider, platform or regulator asks questions, being able to produce documentation quickly can be the difference between a short review and a frozen account.
Setup checklist
- Confirm product legality in the states you plan to ship to.
- Apply for a hemp-friendly payment provider.
- Accept Shopify's hemp requirements.
- Configure shipping profiles and email notifications.
- Publish COAs and compliant product descriptions.
- Review ad policies before advertising.
Related: Shopify product types and what sells best on Shopify.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Shopify Payments for CBD?
Shopify's hemp guidance requires a third-party payment provider that supports hemp sales, and POS hardware that depends on Shopify Payments cannot be used for hemp.
Can I advertise CBD on Facebook and Google?
Ad platforms restrict CBD advertising and policies vary by country and product type. Check each platform's current policy before running ads.
Can I make health claims about CBD?
In the US, the FDA and FTC have acted against companies making unproven health claims about CBD. Avoid disease or treatment claims.
Sources and further reading
Platform features, prices and policies change. Check the official help pages linked above before you act on a detail that matters to your store.