Sales Restrictions on Squarespace
When you're setting up a Squarespace store, you need to follow several layers of rules. It's not just Squarespace's policies – you'll also need to check the restrictions from your payment processor and shipping carriers. Here's what you need to know to keep your store compliant.
TL;DR:
- Follow Squarespace's Acceptable Use Policy and Terms of Service
- Check restrictions for your payment processor (Stripe, PayPal, Square, etc.)
- Review shipping restrictions if using FedEx, UPS, or USPS
- Afterpay and Clearpay have their own prohibited items lists
- Check your payment settings to see which services you're using
Understanding Squarespace's Basic Policies
Squarespace has its own set of rules in the Acceptable Use Policy and Terms of Service. These cover the basics of what you can and can't sell on their platform. Read through these first – they're your starting point.
Payment Processor Restrictions
Each payment processor has its own list of what they won't handle. Since you might be using multiple processors, you need to check all of them.
Stripe
Stripe maintains a list of prohibited businesses. Check this list to make sure your products aren't on it before you start selling.
PayPal
PayPal has its own Acceptable Use Policy that covers what you can sell through their service. Their restrictions might be different from Stripe's.
Square
If you're using Square through Squarespace's point of sale system, check Square's prohibited goods and services list.
Afterpay and Clearpay
These buy-now-pay-later services have Merchant Services Agreements that outline which business types and products they accept.
Quick tip: Go to Commerce > Payments in your Squarespace dashboard to see which payment services you're currently using.
Shipping Carrier Restrictions
Your shipping carrier also has rules about what they'll transport. Here's where to find the restrictions for major carriers:
FedEx – Check their domestic and international shipping policies for prohibited items.
UPS – They have detailed lists of prohibited and restricted items for different shipping methods.
USPS – The postal service has its own guidelines on what you can and can't ship.
Each carrier's restrictions can vary, so check all the services you plan to use.
Staying Compliant
The key is checking all these policies before you launch your store. It's easier to build compliance in from the start than to fix problems later.
If you're unsure about a specific product, contact the relevant service directly. Most have customer support teams that can clarify their policies.
FAQs
Is it difficult to comply with different payment processor policies on Squarespace?
It takes some research upfront, but Squarespace makes it clear which services you're using so you know which policies to check.
Can I sell any product on Squarespace?
You need to check restrictions from Squarespace, your payment processors, and shipping carriers. What's allowed depends on all three.
Where do I find Square's prohibited items list?
Go to Square's website and look for their policies section. They list prohibited goods and services there.
Jargon Buster
Payment Processor – A service that handles electronic payments for online stores
Compliance – Following the rules and guidelines set by a platform or service
Prohibited Goods and Services – Items or services that aren't allowed to be sold on specific platforms due to their policies
Wrap-up
Checking all these policies might seem like a lot of work, but it protects your business from payment holds, account suspensions, or shipping delays. Take the time to review the guidelines for each service you're using. Your future self will thank you when your store runs smoothly without compliance issues.
Ready to set up your Squarespace store the right way? Join Pixelhaze Academy for step-by-step guidance on building a compliant, successful online store.