Choosing the right website builder for your electronic cigarette store is crucial due to strict industry regulations and unique challenges like age verification. Focus on solutions that handle compliance seamlessly and support specialized payment gateways.
Critical Features for Vape E-Commerce
- Robust Age Verification: Integration with reliable age verification services is non-negotiable. Look for dedicated features, not manual workarounds.
- High-Risk Payment Processing: Must support gateways specializing in restricted industries like tobacco/vape. Avoid platforms blocking these integrations.
- Compliance Tools: Features for FDA/PMTA warnings, shipping restrictions, and local tax rules.
- Scalability & Reliability: Ensure the platform can handle your growth and maintain uptime.
Recommended E-Cigarette Website Builder Brands
- BigCommerce: Explicitly permits vape sales. Offers native integrations for high-risk payment processors and major age verification services. Highly customizable API for complex compliance needs.
- Square Online (with Commerce Plus): Supports CBD/vape businesses when using approved payment processors like Square itself. Built-in age verification tools. Seamless integration with Square POS.
- Shopify (Caution Advised): Officially prohibits tobacco products (including vaping). While technically possible via certain payment gateways and apps, accounts risk sudden suspension. Not recommended for long-term business security.
Dedicated Vape Commerce Solutions (Niche Focus)
- Ecig Express API Engine Platforms: Some builders partner with specialized fulfillment or wholesale providers like Ecig Express, offering pre-built, compliant solutions integrated with their backend.
- Squarespace (Limited): Recently lifted restrictions on CBD sales; carefully review current TOS. Supports age verification gate. Ensure your payment processor integrates smoothly and allows vape.
Key Recommendation: Prioritize BigCommerce or Square Online (Commerce Plus) for their clear stance on vape sales, built-in compliance tools, and established high-risk payment pathways. Avoid platforms where your business model violates Terms of Service. Always verify current payment processor compatibility and platform policies.
