If you’re still using an older Shopify theme, you’re missing out on the powerful new features introduced with Shopify Online Store 2.0. The upgrade brings performance improvements, flexible theme architecture, and a faster way to customize your storefront using sections everywhere and app blocks. But don’t worry — migrating to Shopify 2.0 doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to migrate your store to Shopify 2.0 in 6 easy steps.
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Theme
Before you begin, determine if your current theme is 2.0-compatible.
- Visit Online Store > Themes
- Check the name and version of your theme
- Cross-check it on the Shopify Theme Store
Tip: If your theme is outdated or unsupported, consider upgrading to a new 2.0-ready theme like Dawn, Shopify’s free reference theme.
Step 2: Back Up Your Current Store
Always back up your store before making major changes.
- Export theme files: Go to Online Store > Themes > Actions > Download theme file
- Export CSVs: Backup your products, customers, and order data under Settings > Export
This gives you peace of mind in case something goes wrong.
Step 3: Choose a Shopify 2.0 Theme
If your current theme isn’t compatible, choose a new 2.0 theme:
- Free themes: Dawn, Craft, Refresh
- Paid themes: Browse the Shopify Theme Store
Key features to look for:
- Sections everywhere
- App blocks
- JSON templates
- Faster load speeds
Step 4: Customize the New Theme
Once the 2.0 theme is installed, start customizing:
- Go to Online Store > Themes > Customize
- Use sections on all pages (not just homepage!)
- Drag-and-drop app blocks into product and collection pages
This flexibility is one of the biggest benefits of Shopify 2.0.
Step 5: Migrate Custom Code or Apps
If you’ve added custom Liquid code or scripts to your old theme, you’ll need to:
- Recreate snippets in the new 2.0 theme
- Use app blocks instead of hardcoded app code
- Leverage metafields and dynamic sources to power custom content
Bonus: You can now manage metafields natively from the product editor — no extra apps needed.
Step 6: Test and Publish
Before going live:
- Preview every major page (Home, Product, Cart, Checkout)
- Test responsiveness (desktop, tablet, mobile)
- Make a test order
- Confirm all analytics and pixels are working
When you’re ready, hit Publish!
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