FAQ / Setting Up Checkivo
Setting Up Checkivo
From Shopify install to first live subscription — what setup looks like.
How long does setup take?
Most merchants install the Shopify app, connect Stripe, configure a checkout and publish a subscription product within hours to a few days — not a quarter-long replatform. Complex migrations take longer and are covered under Core Pro.
Do I need developers?
Not for the standard path. Catalog stays in Shopify; Checkivo provides the checkout and billing UI. Developers are useful for custom theme deep-links, headless storefronts or SDK integrations.
What are the setup steps?
1) Start a Checkivo account and install the Shopify app. 2) Connect Stripe. 3) Configure payment methods (iDEAL, Bancontact, SEPA, cards, wallets). 4) Create subscription / purchase options. 5) Point product CTAs to Checkivo checkout. 6) Test, then go live.
Will I get a fixed contact person?
Core is self-serve with support when you need it. Core Pro customers get hands-on implementation with a clear owner during onboarding.
Can I import existing subscribers?
Yes. We support migration paths from common subscription apps. Bring customer, plan and billing-anchor data; Core Pro includes assisted migration for larger catalogs.
Does setup happen on-site?
No — everything is remote: app install, Stripe Connect, configuration calls and screen shares.
Can I test without charging real customers?
Yes. Use Stripe test mode during setup, place test orders, then switch to live keys when you’re ready.
What about my existing Shopify theme?
Your storefront stays. You add Checkivo CTAs / buy buttons that open the one-page checkout. Theme edits are usually minimal.
Do I need Shopify Plus checkout extensibility?
No for Checkivo’s own checkout. Plus is optional; Checkivo is built so Basic plans can run a custom one-page flow on Stripe.
How do I go live safely?
Test renewals, failed-payment retries, portal cancel/skip, and local payment methods for your markets. Then flip traffic from a single product or collection before full catalog cutover.
Where do I start right now?
Open https://app.checkivo.com/signup?plan=core or visit /webdemo/ to see the product, then /contact/ if you want a guided walkthrough.