How to Sell CBD Products Online with WooCommerce: A Complete Business Guide
40 mins read

How to Sell CBD Products Online with WooCommerce: A Complete Business Guide

Mike0

Table of Contents

Introduction

Selling CBD online is now a booming business in the United States. Since the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived CBD has become more accessible. Many entrepreneurs and small brands are launching their own CBD stores.

WooCommerce makes it simple to set up an online store. It is a flexible platform that works well with WordPress. It gives you full control over design, payment, and content.

But selling CBD is not like selling other products. It is a high-risk item with strict rules. You must follow federal and state laws carefully. Many platforms like Shopify or PayPal limit CBD-related sales.

That’s where WooCommerce stands out. It does not restrict CBD products if self-hosted. You can choose your own payment gateways and build your brand your way.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Whether you are just starting or growing your business, this guide is for you.

You’ll learn how to run a safe, legal, and successful CBD business online.

Is It Legal to Sell CBD Online in the USA?

Yes, it is legal to sell CBD online in the United States. But it must meet certain rules set by federal and state laws. Selling CBD is not the same as selling regular products. You must know the legal facts before starting your CBD store.

CBD and the 2018 Farm Bill

The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp-derived CBD legal at the federal level. Hemp is legal if it contains less than 0.3% THC. THC is the part that makes people feel “high.”

CBD must come from industrial hemp, not marijuana. Marijuana-derived CBD is still illegal under federal law.

Here’s what the Farm Bill allows:

  • Legal sale of hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC
  • Transport of CBD products across state lines
  • Growth and harvest of hemp under USDA programs

What Is Legal vs. What Is Not

Even though federal law allows hemp CBD, each state is different. Some states allow all forms of CBD. Others may ban certain types, like CBD in food or drinks.

Also, you cannot make health claims on your site. The FDA does not approve CBD as a cure or treatment.

Avoid saying things like:

  • “CBD heals anxiety or pain”
  • “CBD cures cancer or depression”

Doing so may lead to fines or shutdowns from regulators.

State Laws You Must Follow

Every state has its own rules on selling CBD. Some may require:

  • Product registration with the state
  • Lab testing and certification
  • Special labels or packaging rules

Before selling in any state, check:

  • Local government websites
  • State agriculture or health department pages
  • Legal advice if needed

Selling nationwide? Focus only on states where CBD is legal.

Shipping CBD in the USA

CBD can be shipped legally through USPS, UPS, and FedEx. But each carrier has its own shipping policy. Always follow their guidelines.

To ship CBD legally:

  • Products must be hemp-derived
  • THC level must be below 0.3%
  • Keep lab reports ready to show proof
  • Include proper labels and product descriptions

Some carriers also need:

  • Signed statements from your business
  • Copies of COA (Certificate of Analysis) for each batch

Why Choose WooCommerce for Your CBD Store?

WooCommerce is one of the best platforms to sell CBD online. It’s powerful, flexible, and easy for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or developer, WooCommerce gives you full control.

It’s also open-source, meaning you can change anything you want. You own your data, your design, and your store’s future.

Let’s explore why WooCommerce works great for CBD stores.

  1. No Built-In CBD Restrictions

Unlike Shopify or Wix, WooCommerce doesn’t block CBD products. Since it’s self-hosted, you’re free to sell what you want.

You don’t need approval from WooCommerce to sell hemp products. You also avoid sudden store bans or payment shutdowns.

But remember — you must still follow the law. That includes federal and state rules.

  1. Fully Customizable Storefront

With WooCommerce, your store looks and works how you want. You can pick from thousands of free and premium themes. Add plugins to extend your site’s features.

Want to add:

  • Age verification popups?
  • Product reviews?
  • Subscription boxes?
  • B2B pricing or referral tools?

WooCommerce supports it all with easy-to-use plugins. Most features require no coding.

  1. Payment Gateway Flexibility

WooCommerce gives you full freedom to choose CBD-friendly gateways. You can integrate:

  • Square (for U.S. based stores)
  • Organic Payment Gateways
  • PayKings
  • Easy Pay Direct
  • Crypto payments

You’re not stuck with Stripe or PayPal, which block CBD sales. You can install your preferred payment gateway plugin and start accepting payments securely.

  1. Scalable for Growth

WooCommerce works well for both small stores and big brands. Start with 5 products or scale to 5,000 — it can handle both.

You can add:

  • Product filters and search tools
  • Wholesale pricing
  • Loyalty programs
  • Sales agents or affiliates

As your store grows, WooCommerce grows with it.

  1. Built on WordPress

WooCommerce is built on WordPress — the world’s most popular website platform. This gives you extra tools like:

  • Blogging to boost SEO
  • Content management for FAQs, guides, and legal info
  • SEO plugins like Rank Math or Yoast
  • Custom menus and user roles

It also means a large community and lots of tutorials to help you.

  1. Cost-Effective and Transparent

You don’t pay monthly platform fees with WooCommerce. You only need:

  • A domain name
  • Web hosting
  • Free WooCommerce plugin
  • Optional paid themes or extensions

This keeps your startup costs low and predictable.

  1. Control Over Hosting and Security

With WooCommerce, you choose your own host. Pick a CBD-friendly hosting provider that supports your needs.

You also control:

  • Backups
  • SSL certificates
  • Site speed
  • Security settings

This gives you more power than closed platforms like Shopify.

Setting Up Your CBD WooCommerce Store (Step-by-Step)

Starting a CBD store with WooCommerce is a smart move. The setup process is simple when broken down into clear steps. You don’t need coding skills to get started. All you need is time, the right tools, and careful planning.

Let’s go through each setup stage in detail.

Step 1: Choose a CBD-Friendly Hosting Provider

WooCommerce needs WordPress, and WordPress needs hosting. Hosting is where your site lives online. Not all web hosts support CBD stores, so choose one that does.

Here are a few trusted CBD-friendly hosting providers:

  • GreenGeeks
  • Nexcess
  • Cloudways
  • Hostinger (confirm CBD policy before signing up)

Look for hosts that offer:

  • Fast servers with SSD storage
  • Free SSL certificate (for site security)
  • Automatic backups
  • 24/7 support
  • WordPress optimization

Install WordPress directly from your hosting dashboard. Most hosts offer one-click WordPress install.

Step 2: Install WooCommerce Plugin

WooCommerce is a free plugin for WordPress. It turns your site into a full online store.

To install it:

  1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard
  2. Go to Plugins > Add New
  3. Search for “WooCommerce”
  4. Click Install Now, then Activate

WooCommerce will guide you through basic setup steps, such as:

  • Store details (name, address)
  • Industry (select Health and Wellness)
  • Product types
  • Preferred payment gateways
  • Shipping zones and tax options

You can skip some steps and configure them later.

Step 3: Pick a Professional WooCommerce Theme

Your store’s theme controls how it looks. Choose a theme that fits your brand and works well with WooCommerce.

CBD stores should look clean, calm, and trustworthy. Pick a theme that loads fast and works on mobile devices.

Popular WooCommerce themes for CBD:

  • Astra (lightweight and customizable)
  • OceanWP (great design flexibility)
  • Botiga (modern product grid design)
  • Flatsome (highly visual and popular)

Once installed, customize your theme:

  • Add your logo and brand colors
  • Set up homepage layout
  • Create navigation menus
  • Optimize for mobile users

Step 4: Add Your CBD Products

Now it’s time to add your products. In your dashboard, go to Products > Add New.

Include important details like:

  • Product title and short description
  • Full product description
  • High-quality images (at least 1000×1000 px)
  • Ingredients and dosage info
  • Lab test results (COAs)
  • Clear pricing and quantity options

Make sure each product includes:

  • Legal disclaimers
  • THC content (must be below 0.3%)
  • Suggested usage instructions
  • Allergen or warning labels if needed

Use product categories and tags to group similar items. For example:

  • Oils
  • Gummies
  • Topicals
  • Bundles
  • Best sellers

Step 5: Install Key WooCommerce Plugins

Plugins extend your store’s features. For a CBD store, install:

  • Age Verification Popup – This plugin adds a pop-up asking users to confirm their age. It helps restrict access to users under 18 or 21 based on your product rules.
  • WooCommerce Subscriptions – Use this to offer recurring orders for oils, gummies, or other CBD items. It boosts customer loyalty and automates repeat sales.
  • Review or Testimonials Plugin – Display real customer feedback to build trust and social proof. Positive reviews can increase conversions and reduce hesitation.
  • SEO Plugin – Optimize your titles, descriptions, and blog content for better Google ranking. These tools guide you to improve each page’s SEO score.
  • Security Plugin – Protect your CBD store from hackers, spam, and malware attacks. These plugins offer firewall, login security, and threat monitoring.
  • Performance Plugin – These tools speed up your site by caching and reducing page load time. Faster sites offer better user experience and rank higher in search.

Choose only trusted plugins to keep your store secure and fast.

Step 6: Set Up Legal Pages

CBD stores must follow legal rules. Create these essential pages:

  • Terms and Conditions – Outlines the rules for using your website and shopping from your store. It helps protect your business from legal disputes and chargebacks.
  • Privacy Policy – Explains how you collect, store, and use customer data. This page is required by law and builds trust with your visitors.
  • Shipping and Returns – Details your shipping methods, delivery times, and return policy. Clear policies reduce confusion and support better customer satisfaction.
  • Disclaimer (no medical claims) – States that your products do not cure, treat, or prevent any disease. This protects your store from FDA violations and false advertising claims.

Use a legal page generator or consult a lawyer if needed. Add links to these pages in your footer menu.

Step 7: Test Your Store Before Launch

Before you launch, test every part of your site. Use different devices like mobile, tablet, and desktop.

Check:

  • Add to cart and checkout process
  • Payment gateway setup
  • Shipping rate accuracy
  • Email notifications (order, confirmation, tracking)
  • Mobile performance and layout
  • Page speed (use tools like GTmetrix or Google PageSpeed)

Also, ask friends or colleagues to test and give feedback.

Step 8: Go Live and Start Selling

Once your store works smoothly, it’s time to go live. Announce your launch on social media and through email. Start building trust with clear messaging and helpful content.

Track visitor data using tools like:

  • Google Analytics – Tracks your website traffic, user behavior, and top-performing pages. Helps you understand where visitors come from and what they do. Use this data to improve SEO, content, and conversions over time.
  • Hotjar – Shows heatmaps, click patterns, and user session recordings. Helps you see how real users interact with your CBD store. Perfect for improving UX and fixing drop-off points in the funnel.
  • Facebook Pixel (if ad-compliant) – Tracks conversions from Facebook and Instagram ad campaigns. Let’s you retarget visitors and measure ad performance in detail. Be sure your product and copy follow Meta’s CBD ad policy.

Now you’re ready to grow your CBD brand online.

Product Preparation: What You Can (and Can’t) Sell

Before you start selling, you must know which CBD products are allowed. Not all types of CBD can be sold legally. You also need to prepare your products the right way. This includes labeling, lab testing, and packaging. Let’s break it all down.

Understand What You’re Allowed to Sell

You can sell hemp-derived CBD if it contains less than 0.3% THC. Anything above that level is considered marijuana and is illegal under federal law.

Allowed CBD products include:

  • Oils and tinctures
  • Gummies and softgels
  • Creams, lotions, and balms
  • Bath bombs and skincare items
  • CBD for pets (check state rules)

Avoid selling:

  • Products with more than 0.3% THC
  • CBD in alcoholic drinks or tobacco mixes
  • Products mixed with banned or unsafe substances

Also, check your state laws. Some states may restrict edibles or vapes, even if federally legal.

Avoid Medical or Health Claims

CBD is not approved by the FDA as a medicine. That means you can’t make claims like “cures pain” or “treats anxiety.” Doing so can lead to legal trouble.

Avoid using phrases like:

  • “CBD heals muscle pain”
  • “Cures sleep disorders”
  • “Treats anxiety or depression”

Instead, focus on wellness, balance, or relaxation themes. Use phrases like:

  • “Supports daily calm and focus”
  • “Promotes relaxation and recovery”
  • “Helps maintain overall wellness”

Use customer testimonials carefully. Don’t publish claims that break these rules.

Include Lab Reports (COAs) for Transparency

Each CBD product should come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA). This is a lab report that shows the THC and CBD content.

The lab test must be:

  • From a third-party, independent lab
  • Updated regularly (with each batch)
  • Linked or attached on your product page

This builds trust and shows your products are safe and legal.

Key info to show on the COA:

  • CBD and THC percentages
  • Test date and batch number
  • Lab contact information

Make it easy for customers to view or download these reports.

Labeling Requirements for CBD Products

Your product labels must be clear, honest, and compliant. Labels should include:

  • Product name and type (CBD oil, cream, etc.)
  • Net weight or volume
  • List of ingredients
  • Suggested use and dosage
  • Legal disclaimer: “This product is not approved by the FDA”
  • THC content (must be under 0.3%)
  • Batch or lot number
  • Manufacturer or distributor info

If shipping to multiple states, check if any have extra label rules.

Packaging: Keep It Safe and Informative

Use secure, tamper-proof packaging for all your CBD items. Some states require child-proof containers. Also, use clear and clean designs that show trust.

Make sure the packaging:

  • Protects the product from damage or heat
  • Matches your brand look and feel
  • Displays important product info clearly
  • Includes QR code linking to lab report (optional but helpful)

Avoid misleading pictures or phrases. Keep everything honest and accurate.

Group and Organize Products for Easy Navigation

Organizing your products helps buyers find what they need. Group items by:

  • Type: Oils, gummies, topicals
  • Use case: Relaxation, sleep, recovery
  • Strength: Low, medium, high potency
  • For: Humans or pets

Also, highlight:

  • Best sellers
  • New arrivals
  • Limited-time offers
  • Subscription-eligible items

This makes browsing easier and boosts conversion rates.

Legal Compliance Essentials

Running a CBD store requires more than great products and design. You must also follow strict legal rules. Skipping these steps can lead to fines or having your store shut down.

Let’s go over the most important legal tasks you need to complete.

Choose the Right Business Structure

Before selling anything, register your business legally. This protects your personal assets and builds trust.

Popular choices include:

  • LLC (Limited Liability Company): Most common and safe option
  • Sole Proprietorship: Easy to start but offers less protection
  • Corporation: Good for large businesses with investors

An LLC is best for most small CBD businesses. It keeps your personal finances separate from your business.

Apply for a CBD Business License (If Required)

Some states need a special license to sell CBD. Others don’t. Always check your state’s rules before you launch.

You may need:

  • A general business license
  • A retail license or seller’s permit
  • A CBD-specific license from your state’s health department

Visit your state or county government website to learn what’s required.

Get Product Liability Insurance

Insurance helps protect your store from legal and financial issues. CBD is a high-risk product, so insurance is important.

Consider these types:

  • Product liability insurance – protects if someone is harmed
  • General business insurance – covers accidents and property damage
  • Cyber insurance – protects against online data breaches

Speak to an insurance agent who understands the CBD industry.

Display Legal Disclaimers on Your Website

Your website must include clear disclaimers. These protect you from legal issues and show transparency.

Common disclaimers to include:

  • “This product is not intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.”
  • “These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.”
  • “Consult your doctor before using CBD products.”

Add disclaimers to:

  • Product pages
  • Checkout pages
  • Footer section
  • Legal pages like Terms and Disclaimer

Avoid Medical or Health Claims

This point is so important, it’s worth repeating. Do not make health claims on your site. You can’t say CBD treats, heals, or cures any condition.

Instead, use safe, approved phrases:

  • “Supports wellness and balance”
  • “Promotes a sense of calm”
  • “Helps with everyday recovery”

Be especially careful with blog posts, product descriptions, and reviews.

Check Bank and Payment Processor Rules

Some banks don’t support businesses selling CBD. Others may freeze your account without warning.

Before opening a bank account, ask:

  • “Do you support hemp-derived CBD businesses?”
  • “Are there any product limits or reporting needs?”

The same goes for payment gateways. Choose only CBD-friendly processors (more in the next section).

Follow Shipping Laws and Carrier Rules

Shipping CBD is legal, but each carrier has rules. Don’t assume all carriers are the same.

For example:

  • USPS allows hemp-derived CBD if THC is under 0.3%
  • UPS and FedEx allow CBD with proper documentation

Always check:

  • THC levels (must be under 0.3%)
  • Product packaging (tamper-proof, child-safe if required)
  • Required documents like lab reports or signed statements

Include tracking numbers and age verification where needed.

Choosing CBD-Friendly Payment Gateways for WooCommerce

Not all payment gateways allow CBD transactions. Some block accounts without notice. Platforms like Stripe, PayPal, and WooCommerce Payments do not support CBD.

To sell CBD safely, you need a CBD-friendly gateway. These providers work with high-risk industries like hemp, supplements, and CBD.

Let’s walk through how to choose the right one and what options to consider.

Why Popular Gateways Don’t Support CBD

Most popular gateways consider CBD a “high-risk” product. Even if your CBD is legal, companies like:

  • Stripe
  • PayPal
  • Square (standard accounts)
  • WooCommerce Payments

…will often block or freeze your account. This can lead to:

  • Lost sales
  • Withheld funds
  • Sudden account closure

That’s why choosing a specialized gateway is critical for CBD success.

What to Look for in a CBD Payment Gateway

When choosing a payment gateway, look for:

  • CBD approval and experience
  • Clear terms and legal compliance
  • Fast approvals and low setup fees
  • Easy WooCommerce plugin or API integration
  • Fraud protection and secure processing
  • Support for recurring payments (if you offer subscriptions)

Also check if they offer chargeback protection, multi-currency, and live support.

Top CBD-Friendly Payment Gateways for WooCommerce

Here are some trusted options that work well with WooCommerce and CBD:

  1. Square (CBD-Approved Accounts Only)

Square is one of the few big names that supports CBD — with conditions.
You must apply for a CBD-approved account through their special program.

Benefits:

  • Trusted brand with strong fraud protection
  • Easy WooCommerce integration with free plugin
  • Works for both online and in-person sales

Keep in mind: Only available for U.S.-based CBD merchants.

  1. Organic Payment Gateways

This provider works only with high-risk industries, including CBD and hemp. It helps you get approved fast and offers personalized setup support.

Key features:

Ad Banner
  • Accepts topicals, oils, and even vaporizers
  • Works with Authorize.net or NMI back-end
  • Offers custom WooCommerce plugins

They don’t post pricing online, so you’ll need to contact them directly.

  1. Easy Pay Direct (EPD)

EPD supports both online and brick-and-mortar CBD sales. They connect you with multiple banks to spread risk and avoid shutdowns.

Highlights:

  • Load balancing across multiple merchant accounts
  • PCI-compliant and fraud-safe
  • Good for large-volume CBD sellers

They charge setup and monthly fees but offer strong reliability.

  1. PayKings

PayKings is made for high-risk industries like CBD, cannabis, and supplements. They help match your business with a suitable bank or processor.

Benefits include:

  • Support for U.S. and international sellers
  • Integration with WooCommerce and POS systems
  • Accepts ACH, credit cards, and multi-currency payments

Fees depend on your business type, size, and history.

  1. SMB Global

This is a newer but growing name in high-risk payment processing. They support eCommerce and in-store CBD transactions with chargeback tools.

Advantages:

  • Integrates with over 15 acquiring banks
  • Offers eCheck, ACH, and multi-currency payments
  • Provides performance insights and data analytics

Great for scaling brands with strong sales history.

  1. Cryptocurrency Payment Plugins (Optional)

Accepting crypto can help bypass CBD banking issues. You can take Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more with no credit card risk.

Pros:

  • No chargebacks
  • Global reach
  • Instant processing with low fees

Use trusted crypto plugins like NOWPayments or TripleA with WooCommerce.

How to Connect a CBD Gateway to WooCommerce

Once you choose a CBD-friendly payment gateway, you’ll need to connect it to your WooCommerce store. Most trusted providers offer a ready-made plugin or API. These are built specifically to work with WordPress and WooCommerce.

Follow these simple steps to connect your payment gateway:

  1. Install the Plugin Provided by Your Payment Gateway

After your account is approved, the provider will share a plugin or download link. You can install this plugin directly in your WordPress dashboard.

To do this:

  • Go to Plugins > Add New
  • Upload the plugin file (.zip)
  • Click Install Now and then Activate

Some gateways (like Square) are also available in the official WordPress plugin directory. In that case, you can search by name and install with one click.

  1. Enter Your API Credentials

Once the plugin is active, you’ll need to connect your WooCommerce store to the gateway account. Most plugins require API keys or Merchant IDs to complete the link.

You’ll find these credentials inside your gateway’s admin dashboard. Copy and paste them into your WooCommerce settings.

To do this:

  • Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Payments
  • Click on your payment gateway’s name
  • Enter your API Key, Secret Key, and any other required fields
  • Save the changes

This step securely links your checkout process with your payment provider.

  1. Test Transactions in Sandbox Mode

Before you go live, always test the gateway using sandbox mode (also called test mode). This simulates real purchases without charging cards.

Why this step matters:

  • Confirms your checkout works correctly
  • Verifies that payments are processed and confirmed
  • Ensures order emails and receipts are sent properly

Most plugins have a checkbox to enable sandbox mode. Once your test goes well, you can switch it off and move to live mode.

  1. Enable the Gateway in Your WooCommerce Settings

After setting up and testing the plugin, you need to make it active.

To enable your CBD payment gateway:

  • Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Payments
  • Find your gateway in the list
  • Toggle the switch to Enable
  • Set the display name (e.g., “Credit Card – CBD Secure”)
  • Click Save Changes

Now your store is ready to accept live payments from customers.

CBD-Friendly Shipping Solutions

Shipping CBD products is legal in the U.S., but not always simple. Even though hemp-derived CBD is allowed, you must follow carrier and state rules. You also need the right packaging, labels, and documentation to avoid delivery issues.

Let’s break down the steps to create a safe and legal shipping setup.

Understand CBD Shipping Laws

Federal law allows you to ship CBD across state lines. But the CBD must be:

  • Extracted from hemp, not marijuana
  • Contain less than 0.3% THC
  • Compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill

Some states restrict certain types of CBD products, like edibles or vapes. Always check state laws before shipping to that location.

Which Carriers Allow CBD Shipping?

Not all delivery companies support CBD shipping. Choose a carrier that knows the rules and supports your business model.

Here are the most reliable CBD-friendly shipping providers:

USPS (United States Postal Service)

  • Ships hemp-derived CBD products legally
  • Requires written statement and lab reports if requested
  • THC must be under 0.3%
  • No restricted items like vapes or THC edibles

UPS

  • Ships CBD products from licensed businesses
  • Seller must meet all federal and state regulations
  • Requires clear labeling and full compliance
  • Will not ship products with unclear or mixed ingredients

FedEx

  • Allows CBD shipping with restrictions
  • Seller must verify legality and product origin
  • No shipment of vapes or devices
  • Requires accurate product information and legal proof

Use only major, verified carriers—avoid third-party couriers who may not understand CBD rules.

Prepare the Right Documentation

Some carriers may ask for documents to verify your product’s legality. Keep this information ready:

  • Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each product batch
  • Signed statement confirming the CBD is hemp-derived
  • Business licenses and seller registration (if required)

Even if they don’t ask every time, having these proves compliance and builds trust.

Use Proper Packaging for CBD Products

Your packaging should protect your products and follow safety standards. Secure packaging also helps avoid tampering and protects during shipping.

Key packaging tips:

  • Use tamper-proof, sealed containers
  • Add child-resistant caps for tinctures or oils (if needed)
  • Print THC content, ingredient list, and product name clearly
  • Avoid flashy or misleading labels that may cause issues

For edibles, follow food packaging standards in your shipping states.

Enable Real-Time Tracking and Notifications

Customers want to track their orders from start to finish. Use WooCommerce shipping extensions to provide real-time tracking numbers.

Recommended options:

  • WooCommerce Shipping
  • ShipStation for WooCommerce
  • Advanced Shipment Tracking

These tools let you print labels, set rates, and update delivery info automatically.

Also send email or SMS notifications for:

  • Order confirmation
  • Shipment tracking
  • Delivery updates

Clear communication builds trust and reduces support requests.

Offer Shipping Options and Rates

Customers love flexibility. Offer a mix of shipping speeds and prices.

You can set up:

  • Free shipping on orders over a set amount
  • Flat rate shipping for specific zones
  • Real-time carrier rates from USPS, UPS, or FedEx
  • Local delivery or pickup (if you serve a small region)

Always be clear about delivery times and limits. For example, “No shipping to Idaho, South Dakota, or Iowa.”

Sales Tax Configuration

Charging the correct sales tax is a must for any CBD store. Tax rules can vary by state, so it’s important to get it right. WooCommerce gives you tools to automate and manage taxes easily.

Let’s go through how to set up CBD sales tax the right way.

Understand Sales Tax Rules for CBD Products

CBD sales are taxed just like other retail products. But tax laws change from state to state. Some states charge full sales tax on CBD. Others treat it like supplements or over-the-counter products.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • If your store has a physical location, charge tax there
  • If you ship to other states, you may owe remote sales tax
  • CBD products are taxable in most states, including topicals and oils
  • Always check the current tax rate for each state you serve

To stay legal, follow economic nexus laws. These rules apply if you make a certain number of sales or revenue in a state—even without a store there.

Enable Taxes in WooCommerce Settings

WooCommerce makes it easy to enable taxes site-wide. Here’s how:

  1. Go to WooCommerce > Settings > General
  2. Check the box for “Enable taxes and tax calculations.”
  3. Save changes

This unlocks the Tax tab in your WooCommerce settings. From here, you can set rates, apply rules, and manage locations.

Use a Tax Plugin to Automate the Process

Manual tax setup works—but it’s risky and time-consuming. For CBD stores, automation is safer and faster.

Use trusted tax tools like:

✅ TaxJar for WooCommerce

  • Automates sales tax rates for all U.S. states
  • Update rates in real-time
  • Prepares monthly sales tax reports
  • Offers auto-filing in select states

✅ Avalara AvaTax

  • Handles multi-state tax compliance
  • Validates addresses for tax accuracy
  • Scales well for growing CBD brands

These tools keep your tax setup accurate and reduce human error.

Set Up Tax Rates Manually (Optional)

If you prefer manual control, you can enter rates yourself:

  1. Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Tax
  2. Click Standard Rates
  3. Add rows with the state code, rate, and label
  4. Apply rates based on the billing address or the shipping address

This method works if you sell in one or two states. But it becomes harder as your business grows.

Display Taxes Clearly at Checkout

Always be clear with customers about tax charges. Show tax on:

  • Product pages (if required)
  • Cart and checkout pages
  • Order confirmation emails

In WooCommerce, you can choose to:

  • Show prices with tax included
  • Show prices without tax, and add it at checkout

Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Tax > Display Prices to set your preference.

Collect and Remit Sales Tax to Each State

Collecting tax is only the first step. You also need to remit it to each state.

To stay compliant:

  • Register with the tax department of each state you sell in
  • File returns monthly, quarterly, or annually (based on state rules)
  • Use TaxJar AutoFile or Avalara returns to file automatically
  • Keep records of all transactions and filings for audit protection

Filing late or skipping taxes can lead to heavy penalties.

Top Plugins for CBD Stores

The right plugins can take your CBD WooCommerce store to the next level. They help you improve performance, trust, legal compliance, and the overall shopping experience.

Below are the best plugins every CBD store should consider.

  1. Age Verification Popup

CBD is age-restricted in most U.S. states. You must verify customer age.

This plugin displays a popup asking visitors to confirm they are 18+ or 21+. You can customize the message, design, and button labels easily.

Benefits:

  • Helps you comply with local laws
  • Blocks underage users from accessing the site
  • Improves legal safety for your business

It’s lightweight and works well with all WooCommerce themes.

  1. WooCommerce Subscriptions

Subscriptions help increase repeat sales for products like oils, capsules, or gummies.

This plugin lets customers sign up for auto-renewal deliveries. You can control pricing, intervals, and even offer discounts for recurring orders.

Benefits:

  • Predictable monthly revenue
  • Better customer retention
  • Fully integrates with CBD-friendly payment gateways

A great tool if you plan to build loyalty and convenience.

  1. Review or Testimonials Plugin

CBD customers want proof before they buy. Reviews create social proof.

Use plugins like Judge.me, Customer Reviews for WooCommerce, or YITH Reviews. These allow users to leave detailed product reviews with photos or star ratings.

Benefits:

  • Builds trust and boosts conversions
  • Displays verified customer feedback
  • Helps with SEO through fresh user-generated content

Enable reviews on product pages and post-purchase emails.

  1. SEO Plugin (Rank Math or Yoast)

SEO is key for driving free traffic to your store. These plugins help you optimize:

  • Product titles and descriptions
  • Meta tags and schema markup
  • Image alt texts and keyword placement

Rank Math and Yoast SEO are both beginner-friendly and powerful. They give real-time tips while editing pages.

Benefits:

  • Better rankings on Google and Bing
  • Improved click-through rates
  • SEO health check for your whole site

Rank Math also includes advanced WooCommerce support.

  1. Security Plugin (Wordfence or Sucuri)

CBD stores are a target for bots and hackers. Keep your site safe.

These plugins protect against:

  • Malware and brute-force attacks
  • Suspicious logins and plugin vulnerabilities
  • Unauthorized file changes

Wordfence offers real-time firewall protection. Sucuri includes a cloud-based firewall and performance boost.

Benefits:

  • Peace of mind with 24/7 security
  • Alerts when your site is under threat
  • Firewall and malware scanning built-in

Every store should run a security plugin from day one.

  1. Performance Plugin (LiteSpeed Cache or WP Rocket)

A slow store loses customers and ranks lower in search. Speed matters.

LiteSpeed Cache and WP Rocket optimize your site by:

  • Caching pages and reducing server load
  • Minifying CSS, JavaScript, and HTML
  • Improving mobile performance

Benefits:

  • Faster page load times
  • Better user experience
  • Higher SEO scores on Google PageSpeed

LiteSpeed is ideal for compatible hosting. WP Rocket works everywhere and is beginner-friendly.

  1. Advanced Shipment Tracking

CBD buyers want clear delivery updates. This plugin adds shipment tracking to WooCommerce.

You can:

  • Add tracking numbers to orders
  • Send shipping updates via email
  • Display delivery status in customer accounts

Benefits:

  • Fewer support emails
  • Better customer satisfaction
  • Works with USPS, UPS, FedEx, and more

Pair it with your carrier plugin for smoother logistics.

  1. Cookie Notice and Compliance Plugins

CBD stores must follow privacy laws like GDPR and CCPA.

Use plugins like Complianz or CookieYes to:

  • Show cookie consent popups
  • Block scripts until accepted
  • Add legal disclaimers for tracking

Benefits:

  • Stay legally compliant
  • Build customer trust
  • Avoid privacy fines or warnings

Set up once and forget—it runs automatically in the background.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Launching a CBD store online is exciting—but easy to get wrong. Many store owners make small mistakes that lead to big problems. These issues can cause legal trouble, payment failures, or poor customer trust.

Let’s go over the most common CBD eCommerce mistakes and how to avoid them.

  1. Using the Wrong eCommerce Platform

Not all platforms allow CBD sales. Some block your account suddenly.

Avoid using:

  • Shopify (without applying for CBD approval)
  • Wix or Squarespace (with unclear CBD policies)
  • WordPress.com (not self-hosted, restricts high-risk products)

Instead, use WordPress.org with WooCommerce. It offers full control and freedom for CBD sellers.

  1. Choosing Unsupported Payment Gateways

CBD is a high-risk industry. Gateways like PayPal and Stripe do not allow it.

Using them may result in:

  • Frozen funds
  • Account bans
  • Chargeback issues

Always use CBD-friendly gateways like:

  • Square (CBD-approved account)
  • PayKings
  • Easy Pay Direct
  • Organic Payment Gateways

Check terms before signing up.

  1. Making Health or Medical Claims

You cannot claim CBD “cures” or “treats” anything. The FDA bans that.

Examples to avoid:

  • “CBD treats anxiety and pain”
  • “Heals inflammation or depression”
  • “Clinically proven to improve sleep”

Use safe phrases like:

  • “Supports daily wellness”
  • “Promotes calm and balance”
  • “Great for general relaxation”

Also avoid publishing user reviews that contain health claims.

  1. Not Including Lab Reports (COAs)

Certificates of Analysis (COAs) prove your CBD is legal and safe. Missing COAs can hurt your brand trust and lead to legal trouble.

Make sure each product has:

  • A valid third-party COA
  • THC content listed (under 0.3%)
  • Updated batch info and test date

Link the COA on product pages for transparency.

  1. Poor Labeling and Packaging

Your product label is more than just a design. It must meet legal standards.

Don’t forget to include:

  • CBD content and THC amount
  • Ingredient list and dosage instructions
  • Legal disclaimers and batch numbers
  • Manufacturer or seller contact info

Avoid bright, flashy labels that resemble food or candy packaging.

  1. Skipping State Law Checks

Just because CBD is federally legal doesn’t mean all states allow it. Some states ban edibles, smokeables, or pet CBD.

Before shipping to any state:

  • Check local CBD rules
  • List restricted states on your site
  • Disable checkout for those zones

This keeps your store compliant and avoids legal risks.

  1. Ignoring Customer Support and Trust Signals

Poor support kills repeat sales. Customers need quick answers and clear policies.

Avoid missing:

  • Contact details (email, phone, chat)
  • Refund and return policy
  • FAQ page for CBD product use

Also add:

  • Verified reviews
  • SSL certificate (secure site)
  • Clear shipping updates

These steps build trust and loyalty.

  1. Not Optimizing for Mobile and Speed

Many CBD shoppers browse from phones. A slow site pushes them away.

Avoid:

  • Large images that slow loading
  • Unresponsive themes
  • Missing mobile menus or checkout buttons

Use:

  • Lightweight WooCommerce themes
  • Speed plugins like LiteSpeed or WP Rocket
  • Image compression tools (like TinyPNG)

Mobile optimization improves SEO and conversions.

Conclusion

Selling CBD online is not just a business—it’s a responsibility. You’re offering wellness products that require trust, care, and legal compliance. Every decision, from product labeling to payment setup, directly affects your brand’s future.

WooCommerce gives you the freedom to run your CBD store your way. But with freedom comes complexity. Laws change. Plugins conflict. Shipping gets tricky. And even a small technical issue can cost you customers.

That’s where WooHelpDesk comes in.

We’re not just here to fix bugs—we’re here to build your success. Whether you need help with plugin setup, legal-friendly design, performance tuning, or full store management, our team is ready to support your growth.

📌 Ready to build, launch, or scale your WooCommerce CBD store?
 👉 Contact WooHelpDesk today for expert, personalized support.

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