Does the ‘Built For Shopify’ Badge Matter? Q&A for Handmade Sellers

What Handmade Sellers Need to Know About the BFS Badge on Shopify Apps

Q: What is the ‘Built For Shopify’ (BFS) Badge?

A: The BFS badge is Shopify’s way of certifying that an app meets their highest standards for performance, security, and seamless integration with Shopify stores. Apps with this badge have gone through Shopify’s rigorous review process, ensuring they work reliably and align with best practices.

Q: As a handmade seller, should I care if an app has the BFS badge?

A: It depends on what you value most in an app. If reliability, strong customer support, and seamless integration are priorities, then yes, a BFS badge can be a reassuring sign. However, it’s not the only factor to consider when choosing an app.

Q: What are the benefits of using a BFS-certified app?

A:

• Better Performance: Shopify has vetted these apps, so they’re less likely to slow down your site or cause glitches.

• Seamless Integration: They follow Shopify’s latest best practices, making them more compatible with your store.

• Stronger Security: They meet Shopify’s security requirements, reducing the risk of data breaches.

• Reliable Support: Shopify prioritizes apps with this badge, meaning you’re more likely to get fast fixes if something goes wrong.

  
  

Q: Are non-BFS apps bad or risky to use?

A: Not necessarily. Many high-quality apps don’t have the BFS badge yet but still offer excellent features and support. Some reasons an app might not have the badge:

• The developer hasn’t applied for it yet.

• The app is new and hasn’t gone through Shopify’s full review process.

• The app offers features that Shopify doesn’t officially endorse but are still valuable to sellers.

Before ruling out a non-BFS app, check reviews, support responsiveness, and whether other handmade sellers recommend it.

Q: Should I only install BFS apps?

A: Not necessarily. If an app with the BFS badge meets your needs, great! But if a non-BFS app offers unique features that help your business, it might still be worth considering. The best approach is to test apps and see how they perform for your store.

Q: What’s the best way to choose Shopify apps for my handmade business?

A: Here’s a quick checklist to help:

✅ Check reviews and ratings – Look for apps with strong user feedback.

✅ Test customer support – Send a pre-sales question and see how they respond.

✅ Look at update history – Frequent updates mean active development.

✅ Avoid bloated apps – Some apps slow down your store—test speed impact before committing.

✅ Read the fine print – Check pricing, hidden fees, and refund policies.

Q: Final verdict—should I prioritize the BFS badge when picking apps?

A: It’s a helpful indicator, but not a deal-breaker. While BFS apps provide an added layer of trust, what matters most is whether an app fits your business needs, performs well, and offers solid support. Handmade sellers should focus on functionality first and use the BFS badge as one of several factors when making a decision.

Do you use Shopify apps with or without the BFS badge? Let’s chat in the comments!

Would you like any tweaks or a CTA to direct sellers to a resource you offer?