How to create a correct domain name?
Of course, when choosing a domain name, you don't go about it overnight if you want to start an online store. You think about that, because that's the name your target audience needs to get to know and remember. Moreover, there are several rules to follow when choosing a domain name. For example, not all characters are allowed. You also think about the extension that will appear after the domain. Therefore, discover here how to choose a correct domain name for your online store.
Is the domain name still available?
You've probably been brainstorming to come up with the ideal name for your online store. Many popular names are already taken, which is why checking a domain name is also the first step before moving forward. Adomain name checkshows whether the domain with the corresponding extension is still available or already taken. If the name is still available, you have the possibility to register it immediately. Do you only choose the extension .nl or are you planning to go international? In that case it is also possible to register other country extensions for your domain immediately, such as .be or .de.
Domain name registration rules
A domain name must have a minimum of two characters and a maximum of 63. No characters or spaces are allowed in the domain. The minus sign is allowed, but % and &, for example, are not. There are also words that you are not allowed to use in a domain. For example, if the word is lewd or contrary to public policy. Watch out for using other people's brand names in your domain. This is because there is a chance that it is not allowed.
Short and easy-to-remember domain
Of course, you want your webshop to be easy to reach for your target audience. Therefore, it is also advisable to choose a domain name that is easy to remember. Among other things, it is advisable to choose a short and powerful name. It also helps if the name is simple to spell. Do you have an online store linked to a physical store and have a local business? In that case, consider including the city name in your domain name as well.
Find suitable domain name for your shop
When looking for a suitable domain name for the web shop, you need to consider several factors. For example, do you choose your company's name as the domain name? Do you want to incorporate important keywords in the domain name of your online store? How do you make it as easy as possible for visitors to share the domain name with others? Below we list the most important points for you!
Provide a recognizable domain name
The moment a potential customer enters your domain name or comes across it on the Internet, it should be clear what you have to offer. If you sell home accessories, it may be smart to include something with "living," "interior design" or "houses" in the domain name. This does not have to be a Dutch term, but could also be "home" or "interior," for example. The important thing is that the domain name matches the content of the website.
Choose keywords instead of a brand
In addition to being able to incorporate a brand name into your domain name, you can also choose keywords. In general, a domain name with keywords scores more easily on your online store's main keyword, than a brand name. To illustrate: "homeaccessoires.nl" scores faster on the search term "home accessories" than a domain name like "interiorstylista.nl". However, don't let this be a limiting factor! Not everyone likes to use keywords in the domain name, rather than a brand name.
Pay attention to the extension of a domain name
Not only do you want a domain name for the web shop to make clear what you have to offer visitors. The domain name also indicates which market you are focusing on. A .nl domain name shows that you are trying to serve customers in the Netherlands. Whereas with a .be or .com domain name, your webshop focuses on the Belgian or international market, respectively. In the latter case, it is smart to choose English content on the website. This may put off Dutch or Belgian customers.
Do not use existing brand names
You want to avoid having to shut down your new web shop within a short time because you unknowingly infringe on the trademark rights of large companies. This is the case, for example, when you incorporate the brand name of such a company in your domain name. Especially with online stores, this is looked at strictly! After all, you could benefit from the name recognition and reliability that large companies have.
Don't make the domain name too long
A fourth factor to consider is the length of a domain name. Try to keep the domain name short and sweet. A short domain name is not only faster to type in, but is more easily remembered in the process. Thus, you increase the chances of existing customers sharing your domain name with friends and family. Somewhat related to the length of a domain name is the choice of words. Make sure there is only one way a word can be written.
Tips for the domain name of your webshop
Below we have listed the most important tips from this article for you. Keep these in mind, when you apply for a domain registration for your webshop.
- Preferably choose a .nl domain name;
- Make sure the domain name is not too long;
- Avoid using dashes in the domain name;
- Don't use numbers, write out words;
- Beware of using existing brand names;
- Choose easy-to-write words.
Have you already found a great domain name for your web shop? Register it as soon as possible to prevent other parties from registering it! It may be wise to apply for a .be and .com domain name in addition to the .nl domain name. You may eventually want to expand to other countries.