How to Use Instagram Shopping to Sell More Products

Forget about busy malls – Instagram is now the ultimate shopping destination. With over a billion active monthly users, this platform brings the retail experience right to your fingertips.

Instead of sending customers off to your website, Instagram Shopping lets them browse and buy products directly from your posts.

Over 130 million users tap on shopping posts every month, giving you the kind of foot traffic that traditional stores only dream of.

If you’re ready to sell more products, it’s time to set up your virtual storefront. So, keep reading to see how you can use Instagram shopping to sell more products this year.

 

What is Instagram Shopping?

Let’s start with letting you know what this feature is in the first place.

Instagram Shopping is a handy tool that turns your Instagram page into a mini online store. It lets you showcase your products right on your profile. With Instagram Shopping, users can easily explore and buy what you offer without ever leaving the app.

Think of it as your digital storefront. You can create collections that match your brand’s style, making it simple for customers to find what they love.

Whether you sell directly through Instagram using Facebook Pay or link to your website, this feature makes shopping a seamless experience. It’s all about bringing your products closer to your audience in an engaging and interactive way.

 

How Does Instagram Shopping Work?

Instagram Shopping is designed to be super easy for users. The idea is to keep you engaged and make it fun to discover and buy from your favorite brands – all within the app.

To start, look for the shopping bag icon in the app. Tap it, and you’ll see a mix of shops from brands you already follow along with recommendations based on your activity.

You can even explore “Editor’s Picks” where you’ll find curated collections like Gift Guides and more.

When you select “Browse Shops,” you get a list of brands that have set up their own Instagram shops. This is a great starting point since you already know and like these brands.

Once you click on a shop, you’ll see all the products and collections available. You can scroll through, learn more about each item, and then decide to purchase – just like you would on any other e-commerce site.

Who is Eligible for Instagram Shopping?

Before you can set up Instagram Shopping, your business needs to meet a few simple requirements:

• Supported Market: Your business must be located in a country where Instagram Shopping is available. You can check out the list here.
• Physical Products: You should sell physical, eligible products that customers can purchase.
• Policy Compliance: Your business must follow Instagram’s merchant agreement and commerce policies.
• E-commerce Website: You need to own your e-commerce website.
• Business Profile: Make sure your Instagram account is set up as a business profile. If it’s a personal profile, you can easily switch to a business account.

 

Essential Terms Every Retailer Should Know Before Getting Started with Instagram Shopping

• Shop

Think of your Instagram Shop as your online storefront. When someone taps “View Shop” on your account or product page, they land here. It’s the space where you highlight your products, special deals, and current promotions.

• Product Detail Pages

This is where all the important product information lives. From the item description and price to high-quality photos, the product detail page gives customers everything they need to know. It even shows images from Instagram that are tagged with the product.

• Product Tags

Instagram Product Tags let you mark items from your catalog directly in your posts and videos. When people tap a tag, they instantly get more details about that product. Using these tags increases the chances of your products appearing in places where users are ready to shop, like the Instagram Shop tab.

• Collections

Collections help you group similar products together, making it easier for shoppers to find what they’re interested in. Instead of browsing through an endless list, customers can check out a collection tailored to their needs. This is also a great way to feature your best-selling items.

• Checkout

This is where the magic happens. After exploring your products, customers can either click “View on website” to visit your site or, if you offer it, use Instagram’s easy checkout option.

This feature lets them complete their purchase without leaving the app, keeping the shopping experience smooth and convenient.

• Shop Discovery Tab

The Shop Discovery tab is like a treasure hunt for shoppers. Based on their recent activity, Instagram shows users products from various shops.

You can also explore categories like “Offers and Sales” for exclusive deals or “Buy on Instagram” for products available directly through the platform.

 

How to Set Up an Instagram Shop: Step-By-Step

Step 1: Switch to a Business or Creator Account

If you haven’t already, you will need to convert your Instagram account to a Business or Creator account. This change unlocks Instagram Shopping features and gives you access to useful analytics.

To switch:

• On your Instagram profile page, tap on the Hamburger icon at the top right corner to open the Settings
• Tap on Account Type and Tools.
• Choose Switch to Professional Account and follow the prompts.

Step 2: Set Up Your Shop in Commerce Manager

Next, use Commerce Manager or a supported e-commerce platform to create your shop.

• Choose how you want customers to complete their purchases – either directly on Instagram (ideal for U.S. businesses) or on your website.
• Select the Instagram business account you want linked to your shop.
• If you have a Facebook Page, check the box to set up a shop on both Facebook and Instagram.

Step 3: Connect Your Facebook Page

Linking a Facebook Page helps streamline your shop setup.

• Go to your Instagram Edit Profile
• Under Public Business Information, tap Page.
• Choose your Facebook Business Page and connect it.

Step 4: Upload Your Product Catalog

Now, add your products. You have two main options:

• Manual Upload: Use Facebook Business Manager for a smaller catalog.
• E-commerce Integration: Import your catalog automatically via a platform like Shopify or BigCommerce.

Step 5: Submit Your Account for Review

Once your product catalog is in place, submit your shop for Instagram’s review. This process might take a few days and may include verifying your storefront domain.

• Go to Settings on your Instagram profile.
• Tap Sign Up for Instagram Shopping and follow the instructions.
• Check the status of your application under Shopping in your settings.

Step 6: Activate Instagram Shopping

After your account is approved, it’s time to connect your product catalog to your Instagram Shop.

• Open your Instagram Settings.
• Tap Business, then Shopping.
• Select the product catalog you want to display.
• Tap Done to finish setup.

Benefits of Having an Instagram Shop

But why would any brand manager want to set up an Instagram shop? Well, setting up an Instagram Shop is a smart move for any brand.

It opens your business up to a massive audience that loves to discover and shop directly on the app. According to Instagram, 60% of people interviewed said they discovered new products on the app.

If you don’t already have one set up for your business, now might just be the time to consider that. Here are some key benefits that motivate you even more:

• It’s Cost-Effective: Setting up your Instagram shop is free. You only pay selling fees when a sale is made or if you choose to promote your shop with ads.
• Extra Online Storefront: Don’t rely solely on your website. Having an Instagram shop gives you another channel to sell your products, so if one platform has issues, you’re not left empty-handed.
• Mobile-Friendly Catalog: Instagram Shops are designed to be clean and easy to navigate on mobile devices. This makes it simple for customers to browse your products and get a clear sense of your brand’s style – all from their phone.
• Tap into Shopper Enthusiasm: With a large number of users discovering new products on Instagram, having a shop lets you capture the attention of eager buyers who are already in the shopping mindset.
• Grow Your Following: By showcasing your products in an Instagram Shop, you will not only be driving sales but also attracting new followers who are interested in what you offer. This can boost your overall social media presence and support your marketing strategy.

 

What Type of Content Can I Post on Instagram Shopping?

Instagram Shopping offers a range of ways to showcase your products and engage your audience. Let’s quickly talk about the key content types you can use:

#1: Tagged Product Posts

Transform your regular photo posts into shopping opportunities by tagging your products. Whether it’s a beautiful product shot or an action-packed image of your items in use, these tags invite followers to tap and explore your store.

Below, we can see how Danner Boots uses tagged products and how much engagement they were able to gather with the post.

#2: Tagged Product Stories

Bring your products to life with Stories. Use Instagram’s Product sticker to tag items in your Stories. To create a tagged product Story:

• Simply create your Story as usual
• Tap the sticker icon
• Choose the Product sticker
• Select the item from your catalog.

This feature makes it super easy for viewers to tap a link and visit your storefront.

Pro tip: Customize your sticker colors to match your Story for a cohesive look.

#3: Shopping Ads

Shopping ads are a powerful tool for reaching potential customers who might have missed your posts. These ads, which appear in users’ feeds and Stories, put your products front and center, encouraging immediate engagement.

They’re especially effective for retargeting visitors or catching the eye of serial scrollers. Below is a shopping ad from Feroldis.

#4: Live Shopping Streams

Join the trend of livestream shopping by hosting Live sessions where you can tag products in real time. This interactive format is perfect for product launches, special drops, or introducing new items.

It creates a dynamic shopping experience that lets viewers ask questions and shop as they watch.

#5: Shopping Guides

Instagram Guides allow you to create mini blog-style posts right on the platform. You can use them to craft gift guides, trend reports, or educational pieces that highlight your products.

Guides let you combine editorial content with product recommendations, offering a curated shopping experience for your audience.

To create a shopping guide:

• Tab on the + icon in the upper right corner of your profile
• Select Guide
• Tap on Products
• Search for the product listing you would like to include. You can do that by searching for the account of the product owner.
• Select the product you would like to add and tap Next.
• Add your guide title and descriptions. You can also add a cover photo to the guide
• Now, tap Next in the upper right corner
• Finally, tap Share

 

Expert Tips to Sell More with Instagram Shopping

1. Pay Attention to Your Product Visuals

Your product images are the first thing customers notice. Invest in high-quality photos that highlight your products from various angles.

Use natural lighting, clear backgrounds, and close-ups to reveal details. A visually appealing image builds trust and encourages users to explore further.

2. Launch Timely Collections

Create collections that align with current trends, seasons, or special events. For instance, if it’s summer, consider launching a collection featuring your best outdoor or vacation products.

Timely collections feel fresh and can create a sense of urgency, prompting your audience to shop before the season ends.

3. Make It Easy for Shoppers

Simplify the shopping process by organizing your products into clear categories and collections. Ensure that your product pages are user-friendly and load quickly.

A streamlined experience minimizes friction, making it easier for customers to find and buy what they’re looking for.

4. Leverage Instagram-Specific Promotions

Use exclusive Instagram promotions like limited-time discounts, flash sales, or product drops to create buzz. These offers not only reward your followers but also encourage them to act quickly. Tailor your promotions to your audience to make them feel special and valued.

5. Entice Shoppers with Captions and Product Descriptions

Craft engaging captions that tell a story and highlight the benefits of your products. Use persuasive language and focus on what makes your product unique.

Detailed descriptions help shoppers understand the value of your product and visualize how it fits into their lives. However, don’t be tempted to go for click-bait – it doesn’t end well.

6. Add Hashtags

Hashtags are essential for boosting the discoverability of your posts. Use a mix of popular, niche, and branded hashtags that relate to your product and target audience.

They help your posts reach new users who are interested in similar products, increasing the chances of a sale.

7. Showcase Satisfied Customers Through User-Generated Content

Encourage your customers to share their experiences and tag your products. Reposting this user-generated content not only builds social proof but also makes your brand more relatable.

When potential buyers see real people enjoying your products, they’re more likely to trust your brand.

8. Show Your Product in Action

Create content that demonstrates how your product works in real life. Use videos or carousel posts to showcase different features or uses. Seeing your product in action helps customers understand its functionality and envision it as part of their everyday life.

9. Play with Color

Colors can evoke emotions and draw attention. Use a consistent color scheme that reflects your brand’s personality to make your posts more recognizable. Experiment with vibrant or contrasting colors in your visuals to capture your audience’s interest quickly.

10. Invest in Ads

Instagram ads can extend your reach beyond your current followers. Use them to retarget users who have interacted with your posts or visited your website. A well-targeted ad campaign can drive more traffic to your shop and boost conversions.

11. Work with Influencers

Collaborate with influencers whose audience aligns with your target market. Their authentic recommendations can introduce your products to new potential customers. Influencers bring credibility and can significantly boost your brand’s reach and engagement.

12. Include Tagged Products as Part of Your Content Calendar

While you plan and schedule posts on Instagram, regularly incorporate posts and Stories that feature tagged products. This not only keeps your shop active but also constantly reminds your audience of the items they can purchase.

13. Craft Compelling CTAs

Every post should have a clear call-to-action that tells your audience what to do next. This could be “Shop Now,” “Learn More,” or “Tap to Buy.”

Know that a compelling CTA will always motivate your audience to take action. It will drive more traffic to your shop and boost sales.

Instagram Shopping vs. Facebook Shops

Although Instagram and Facebook are separate platforms, they work closely together under the Facebook umbrella. Here’s what you need to know:

• Shared Foundation:
  Instagram Shopping is powered by Facebook, which means you’ll need to connect your Instagram account to Facebook to set up your shop. Payments are processed through Facebook Pay, linking the two experiences.
• Product Syncing:
  Because both shops rely on your Facebook catalog, you can display the same products and collections on both platforms. This makes it easier to manage your inventory if you’re targeting users on both apps.
• Audience Considerations:
  Think about where your target customers spend most of their time. If your audience is more active on Instagram, then setting up an Instagram shop should be a priority.

If your customers are split between both platforms, having shops on both can maximize your reach.

In short, using both platforms can give you more visibility and flexibility. It’s a smart move to connect your Instagram shop to your Facebook account, especially if you’re aiming to reach diverse demographics and streamline your online selling process.

 

Getting Paid for Instagram Shopping Products: How Does It Work?

When it comes to buying and selling on Instagram, understanding the payment process is key. You have two main options.

You can set up your Instagram shop so that when someone taps on a product, they’re taken to your own e-commerce site.

There, they can complete the purchase in a browser within the Instagram app. This method gives you full control over the checkout experience.

On the other hand, you can decide to keep everything within Instagram. That means you will be enabling in-app purchases by linking your shop to Facebook Pay.

When buyers make a purchase, they’ll enter their payment details – using a credit card, debit card, or PayPal – directly in the app.

This streamlined process minimizes steps for the customer, making it easier for them to complete the purchase.

 

Final Note

Instagram Shopping can be a game-changer for brands and business owners. It brings your products directly to a massive, engaged audience and makes the shopping experience simple and fun.

Use the tips and strategies from this guide to set up your shop, showcase your products, and connect with customers in a way that drives real sales.

Now’s the time to up your selling game on Instagram and get the conversion pouring in!