What is a custom domain?
A custom domain is a web address you own — such as shop.yourbrand.com or yourbrand.com — that points to your Cartva storefront. Instead of sharing a Cartva-hosted path, customers type or click your branded URL.
Connecting a domain is a standard step for merchants who want their store to look and feel like an independent business website, even though Cartva still hosts and powers the store behind the scenes.
Default vs custom URL
Every Cartva store receives a default URL at signup (based on your store name). A custom domain is optional but recommended once you are ready to invest in brand recognition.
How it works on Cartva
Domain connection is managed from your store Settings.
Connection process
- Enter your domain — Type the domain you want to use (e.g.,
www.mystore.ht). - Review DNS instructions — Cartva displays the records you need to add at your domain registrar — typically an A record or CNAME pointing to Cartva's servers.
- Configure at your registrar — Log in to where you bought the domain and add the records exactly as shown. Remove conflicting records if prompted.
- Verify — Cartva checks DNS propagation. When verification passes, HTTPS is enabled automatically.
Subdomains and apex domains
You can connect www.yourstore.com or the root domain yourstore.com. The setup guide in your dashboard specifies which record type applies to your choice.
Troubleshooting
If verification fails, common causes include typos in DNS records, cached old records, or conflicting CNAME entries. Cartva's help guides walk through checking propagation with standard DNS lookup tools.
Who it's for
Custom domains are for merchants who treat their online store as a long-term brand asset.
Good fit:
- Businesses printing their URL on packaging, receipts, or signage
- Sellers running paid ads who want a clean, memorable landing URL
- Brands building email lists and repeat customers who bookmark the site
- Stores operating in professional or B2B contexts where credibility matters
Optional for:
- Merchants testing a new product line who are fine with the default Cartva URL temporarily
- Pop-up or seasonal sellers who prioritize speed over branding
What you control vs what Cartva handles
| You control | Cartva handles |
|---|---|
| Domain purchase and renewal at your registrar | SSL certificate provisioning |
| DNS record configuration | Routing verified domains to your storefront |
| Choosing www vs non-www preference | Platform uptime for domain-served traffic |
| When to connect or disconnect a domain | Verification checks and status indicators |
You retain ownership of the domain at your registrar. Cartva does not register domains on your behalf — you point your domain to Cartva's infrastructure.
Pricing model
Cartva does not charge a separate fee to connect a custom domain on standard plans. Your costs are:
- Domain registration — Paid annually to your registrar (typically $10–$20 USD per year for common TLDs, varying by extension and provider)
- Cartva subscription — Your existing plan covers storefront hosting on connected domains
There is no per-domain hosting surcharge from Cartva for a single connected domain. Review your plan if you operate multiple stores with separate domains.