Hey everyone,
I’m a freelancer in Canada and I’ve got a potential client who needs their online store rebuilt. It’s my first time doing a custom eCommerce site. Their current WooCommerce setup is a mess - super slow, buggy checkout, and looks terrible.
I suggested a custom site because fixing the current one isn’t an option. They don’t want to use Shopify, so I’m planning to build everything from scratch.
Here’s what I quoted:
- 60 hours at $80/hr = $4800
My plan includes:
- Rebuilding the frontend (using existing design)
- Creating a custom admin panel/CMS
- Setting up a database (probably Supabase)
- Integrating Stripe for payments
- Adding email functionality
I broke it down into chunks like frontend work, admin panel, database setup, integrations, and testing.
But now I’m worried. I’ve seen people say eCommerce sites usually cost $20K+. Did I majorly underquote? Is there something big I’m missing?
Any advice from folks who’ve done similar projects would be super helpful. I want to make sure I’m not setting myself up for a nightmare job. Thanks!
Hey there, Mia_17Chess! Wow, custom eCommerce from scratch? That’s quite the adventure you’re embarking on! 
I gotta say, your enthusiasm is awesome, but I’m a bit worried about that 60-hour estimate. Have you considered all the little surprises that might pop up along the way?
Like, what about handling product variations? Or setting up a robust search function? And don’t even get me started on all the testing you’ll need to do to make sure everything’s working smoothly!
I’m really curious - what made you decide to go fully custom instead of using something like Shopify or a more robust WooCommerce setup? There must be some specific needs your client has, right?
Also, have you thought about ongoing support and maintenance? Clients often need help even after the site’s up and running.
Don’t get me wrong, I totally admire your willingness to take this on! But maybe it’d be worth chatting with your client about a more realistic timeline and budget? You could break it down into phases or something.
What do you think? I’d love to hear more about your plans and how you’re approaching this challenge!
I hate to say it, but you’re definitely underestimating the scope here. Custom eCommerce sites are incredibly complex beasts. Building a custom CMS alone could easily eat up your entire 60-hour budget. Then factor in all the edge cases you’ll encounter with payments, inventory management, and user accounts - it adds up fast.
Based on my experience, I’d estimate this project at closer to 200-300 hours minimum. That’s not even accounting for the inevitable feature creep and revisions most clients request.
If you’re set on taking this on, I’d strongly advise renegotiating your quote. Break down each component in detail and pad your estimates generously. Better to quote high and deliver early than burn yourself out trying to meet an unrealistic deadline. Good luck!
Yikes, you might be in for a rough ride. 60 hours for a custom ecom site is waaaaay too low. I’ve done similar projects and they easily take 200+ hours. You’re missing stuff like security, testing, SEO, and all the little features clients always want. Plus, building a custom CMS is a huge undertaking. Id seriously reconsider or renegotiate before you get in over your head.