Using Shopify CLI for Faster App Development

Building apps for Shopify can be time-consuming without the right tools. That's where Shopify CLI changes the game.

Businesses that offer Shopify app development services often rely on Shopify CLI to cut development time and reduce manual steps.

In this post, we’ll break down the key reasons why Shopify CLI matters, how to set it up, and what it helps you build.

What Is Shopify CLI?

Shopify CLI is a command-line tool created by Shopify. It helps developers generate, test, and run custom Shopify apps.

CLI stands for “Command Line Interface.” It helps you interact with your computer by typing commands instead of clicking menus.

Why Developers Prefer Shopify CLI

• It helps you start projects faster
• It supports local development and testing
• It gives quick access to development stores
• It works with popular languages like Node.js and Ruby

Developers can skip hours of setup work and jump right into coding features for Shopify stores.

Prerequisites Before Using Shopify CLI

To get started, you’ll need a few things ready:

• A Shopify Partner account
• A development store
• Node.js installed on your system
• Git installed
• Basic command-line knowledge

These tools are free and easy to install. You’ll also need a text editor like Visual Studio Code or Sublime Text.

Installing Shopify CLI

You can install the CLI based on your operating system. Here are the commands you need:

On macOS

bash

brew tap shopify/shopify
brew install shopify-cli

On Windows

Use the official MSI installer provided by Shopify’s GitHub page.

On Linux

Use Homebrew or install from source:

bash

brew install shopify-cli

After installing, check the version:

bash

shopify version

This confirms that the CLI is ready for use.

Creating a New Shopify App with CLI

Once the CLI is installed, run the following command:

bash

shopify app create

This command prompts you to choose:

• App type (Node.js or Ruby)
• App name
• Preferred template
• Development store to link

The CLI generates a full project folder with the right files and settings.

Shopify App Project Structure

Here’s what the folder includes:

• server folder: Contains backend logic
• web folder: Holds frontend files using React and Polaris
• shopify.app.toml: Core config file for the app
• .env: Stores sensitive data like API keys

Everything is structured for faster testing and updates.

Running Your Shopify App Locally

To run the app in your browser, use:

bash

shopify app dev

This command does three things:

1. Creates a public tunnel using ngrok
2. Connects the app with your development store
3. Opens the embedded app in your browser

This step is key for testing your app’s real-time behavior inside Shopify Admin.

Adding Shopify Extensions via CLI

You can also add extensions like checkout UI or theme app blocks. Use this command:

bash

shopify extension create

This lets you build parts of the app that extend into Shopify’s storefront or checkout.

Supported extension types include:

• Product subscription APIs
• Check out UI blocks
• Theme app extensions

CLI guides you through setup and generates the required code files.

Managing Shopify App Webhooks

Webhooks send real-time store updates to your app. You can register them using the CLI or inside your app code.

For example, to register a webhook manually, use this:

javascript

shopify.webhooks.register({

path: "/webhooks/orders/create",

topic: "ORDERS_CREATE"

});

This lets your app react to events like orders, refunds, or product updates.

Adding App Billing with Shopify CLI

To charge merchants, you can add billing to your app. Shopify supports one-time and recurring billing.

Steps include:

1. Add billing settings in the shopify.app.toml file
2. Use Shopify’s billing API in your app’s code
3. Test payments in your development store

Billing logic is crucial for monetizing your app correctly.

Managing Environment Files (.env)

Your app’s .env file contains values like:

• API keys
• API secrets
• Scopes (access permissions)
• Store URLs

Keep this file private. Never upload it to GitHub.

You’ll usually set this file up right after creating the app with the CLI.

CLI Command List You’ll Use Often

Here’s a list of basic commands and what they do:

You don’t need to memorize all commands. Use shopify help to view them anytime.

Testing and Debugging Your Shopify App

The CLI supports real-time app testing. It opens a preview of your embedded app inside Shopify Admin.

You can also test UI changes with live reload. This helps catch errors early and test actual use cases faster.

Use browser console and CLI logs to trace errors.

Also read: 11 Proven Ways to Increase Shopify App Installs

Best Practices While Using Shopify CLI

• Use Git for version control
• Always run your app locally before submitting
• Keep Shopify CLI updated
• Add error logs to track issues
• Secure your .env file

Following these steps keeps your development clean and reliable.

Deploying Your Shopify App

After development and testing, it's time to move your app to live. Run:

bash

shopify app deploy

You can link the app to GitHub or use the CLI for manual push.

Make sure your app passes Shopify’s security and billing checks before submitting.

Advantages of Using Shopify CLI

• Speeds up app creation
• Reduces setup errors
• Works well with Shopify APIs
• Simplifies app deployment and version control
• Supports both front-end and back-end features

The CLI is a must-have tool for Shopify developers working on real store apps.

Also read: How to Use Shopify’s CLI and API for App Development

CartCoders: Your Trusted Partner for Shopify App Projects

Looking for expert help with custom app builds? CartCoders supports Shopify brands with custom app development, API integrations, and app store submissions. Our team builds:

• Public and private Shopify apps
• Embedded apps using Polaris and React
• Admin panel tools and storefront extensions
• Billing logic and app security features

Whether you run a small store or a large platform, we handle the technical work so you don’t have to. Visit CartCoders to get started with your Shopify app idea today.

Conclusion

Developers using Shopify app development services benefit from faster workflows and cleaner code when using Shopify CLI.

The tool supports quick setups, live previews, and full-stack templates to build apps with confidence. Want to build a powerful Shopify app? Start with the CLI and focus on solving real merchant needs. Contact us to build reliable Shopify apps without delays.