Shopify POS Go is a mobile payment terminal sold directly by Shopify. It's a powerful ally for running a physical store, packing a card reader and barcode scanner in addition to a full POS system.
This article takes a deep dive into the features, benefits, and use cases of Shopify POS Go, which is not yet available in Japan. Let's check the details of Shopify POS Go to prepare for its availability in Japan in the near future.
The blog article below explains the benefits and pricing plans of introducing Shopify POS. Please use it as a reference.
What Is Shopify POS Go?
Image source: Shopify POS Go
Shopify POS Go is a pocket-sized payment terminal that combines all the functionality of a traditional POS system with a built-in barcode scanner and card reader. It handles not only basic payment functions like credit card and contactless payments, but also inventory management via barcode scanning — all in a single device.
By introducing Shopify POS Go, you can manage your online store and physical store's sales and inventory information together in one place. You also no longer need to set up or integrate multiple separate devices.
Data Sync With Your Online Store
Sales and inventory processed on Shopify POS Go sync to the Shopify platform in real time. Because inventory updates in real time, it helps reduce lost sales opportunities from stockouts or overstocking, and also reduces operational workload.
Since it also unifies sales activity and customer management across your online store and physical store, you can run more detailed, targeted marketing initiatives.
An Easy-to-Use, Palm-Sized Device
Shopify POS Go is a device that fits in your hand, much like a smartphone. There's no need to keep it fixed in one spot in the store — you can carry it or move it around depending on customer service or inventory management needs. When paired with the separately-sold POS Go Dock, it can also become a customer-friendly countertop terminal, complete with PIN entry.
It charges via USB-C cable, and a full charge can last a full day of sales use, which also helps reduce the burden on sales staff.
Simple, Straightforward Initial Setup
Setting up Shopify POS Go is very simple. You can get started just by plugging the device into power and connecting it to Wi-Fi.
Flexible Customization
Not just for Shopify POS — high customizability is one of the benefits of adopting Shopify in general.
Shopify POS Go Is Not Yet Available in Japan (as of 2024)
As of 2024, unfortunately Shopify POS is not yet available in Japan.
For merchants running physical stores, Shopify POS Go is a powerful tool that can help cut costs and improve operational efficiency. It's worth keeping this information in mind in preparation for its eventual availability in Japan.
As of 2024, Shopify POS Go is available in the following countries:
💡 Australia, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy, New Zealand, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, and Finland
Things to Watch For When Introducing It in Japan
Image source: Shopify POS Go
Shopify POS Go requires a physical store located in the same country as your Shopify store's settings. Be aware that in some cases — for example, if your store settings are configured for a different country — data sync may not work correctly.
Also, be sure to check in advance whether Japanese tax rate settings can be configured and whether there are any legal restrictions before introducing it. It's also a good idea to check the support contacts in advance in case trouble occurs.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Shopify POS Go?
Shopify POS Go may have a somewhat higher upfront hardware cost compared to other POS systems. However, since it simplifies inventory management and improves operational efficiency, it can help reduce operating costs, so its long-term cost performance can be considered excellent.
Ways to Use Shopify POS Go
Image source: Shopify POS Go
Shopify POS Go is a tool that can be used regardless of store size or type of business. It's especially useful in cases like the following.
Inventory management workload is heavy
- Real-time inventory management is needed across online and physical stores
- Barcode-scanner-based inventory management is effective when SKU counts are high — for example, accessories or apparel
You're strengthening your marketing
- You run campaigns frequently based on customer purchase data
- You run promotions targeted at repeat customers
- You run marketing across multiple store locations — for example, multi-location restaurants or beauty businesses
Run Both an Online Store and a Physical Store With Shopify!
By using Shopify POS and Shopify POS Go, you can break down the barrier between your online store and physical store and expand what's possible for your business. If you're considering physical retail down the road, why not start easily with Shopify POS and try a one-day event or pop-up first?
