When ‘free’ isn’t free: managing surprise costs from Shopify apps and themes

Many Shopify merchants start their journey with the promise of free themes and affordable apps. But before long, they find themselves paying more in hidden costs than their actual Shopify subscription.

👉 A “free” theme that requires multiple premium apps to be functional.

👉 An app that begins free but charges per transaction or after a usage threshold.

👉 Upgrades that lock essential features behind costly plans.

These surprise expenses can quietly balloon your monthly costs and eat into your margins.

💡 Here are a few ways to manage them:

1. Audit your apps regularly - remove what you don’t use.

2. Prioritize multifunction apps - one tool that solves multiple needs.

3. Customize your theme smartly - avoid relying too much on paid add-ons.

4. Watch free trials - set reminders before they convert into charges.

5. Plan for scaling - check how pricing changes as your store grows.

At the end of the day, “free” isn’t always free, but with careful planning, you can keep your store lean, efficient, and cost-effective.