Shopify Flow is a free tool that automates tasks like inventory tracking and customer tagging. This guide covers what Shopify Flow is, how to use it, how it compares to Zapier, its cost, and more, with real user feedback from Reddit.
What is Shopify Flow?
Shopify Flow is an automation tool from Shopify that helps merchants manage tasks by creating workflows. It uses a no-code builder to set up triggers, conditions, and actions. For example, you can automatically tag customers or reorder stock. It’s available on all Shopify plans (Basic, Shopify, Advanced, Plus) and works with apps like Slack, Google Sheets, and Klaviyo.
Main Features
- No-Code Builder: Set up automations without coding.
- Templates: Use pre-made workflows for common tasks.
- App Connections: Works with apps like Rise.ai and Yotpo.
- Free Access: Included in all Shopify plans.
User Feedback: A Reddit user said, “Flow is a secret sauce. Use it to tag high valued customers or VIP’s. Make a LLA of those high spenders” (Reddit).
How to Use Shopify Flow: Step-by-Step
Shopify Flow is simple to use. You can start with templates or create custom workflows. Here’s how:
Step 1: Open Shopify Flow
- Log in to your Shopify admin.
- Go to Apps > Flow or install it from the Shopify App Store.
Step 2: Create a Workflow
- Using Templates:
- Click Create workflow > Browse templates.
- Pick a template, like “Low inventory alert.”
- Edit settings, such as tags or email recipients.
- Click Turn on workflow.
- Creating Manually:
- Choose a trigger, like “Order placed.”
- Add a condition, like “Order total over $100.”
- Set an action, like “Send gift card.”
- Add more conditions or actions if needed.
- Click Turn on workflow.
Step 3: Check and Adjust
- View workflow results in the Flow dashboard.
- Update settings if needed.
Common Uses
- Inventory Tracking: Get alerts for low stock via Slack.
- Customer Tagging: Tag high-spending customers for marketing.
- Fraud Checks: Cancel orders from risky email addresses.
User Feedback: A Reddit user shared, “I use it to tag products which are running low for stockchecking” (Reddit).
Shopify Flow vs. Zapier: Which Tool to Choose?
Shopify Flow and Zapier are automation tools, but they differ in focus and features. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | Shopify Flow | Zapier |
|---|---|---|
| Users | Shopify stores | Any business |
| Connections | Shopify apps, Slack, Google Sheets | 5,000+ apps |
| Ease of Use | No-code builder | Simple, some technical skills for complex tasks |
| Cost | Free | Free tier; Paid plans start at $29/month |
| Best For | Shopify tasks | Multi-app workflows |
Why Use Shopify Flow?
- Free: No extra cost for Shopify users.
- Shopify-Focused: Works well within Shopify’s system.
- Easy Setup: No coding needed.
Why Use Zapier?
- More Apps: Connects to apps outside Shopify.
- Complex Tasks: Supports advanced workflows.
User Feedback: A Reddit user noted, “Shopify Flow is great for Shopify-specific automations, but Zapier is better for external tools” (Reddit).
How Much Does Shopify Flow Cost?
Shopify Flow is free for all Shopify plans (Basic at $29/month, Shopify at $79/month, Advanced at $299/month, Plus at $2,000+/month) as of April 2025. Some apps that work with Flow, like Flow Plus for webhooks, may have separate fees, but the core tool is free.
User Feedback: A Reddit user said, “I switched to Flow because it’s free and works well for my Shopify store” (Reddit).
Why Shopify Flow Rocks in 2025
Shopify Flow has a solid 3.7-star rating from 103 reviews on the Shopify App Store. It’s free, plays nice with Shopify’s ecosystem, and doesn’t demand coding skills. Whether you’re restocking inventory, tagging VIPs, or sniffing out fraud, Flow handles the grunt work so you can focus on scaling your business.
Ready to automate? Install Shopify Flow from the Shopify App Store and build your first workflow today.
Sources: Shopify Flow Official Page, Shopify Help Center, LiteExtension Shopify Flow Tutorial, GetMesa Shopify Flow vs Zapier, Reddit Shopify Community