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Upgrading or migrating to Magento 2 (M2) is not as simple as running a script or issuing a few basic commands. Migrating to Magento 2 is a complex process that must be planned. This executive overview is written for retailers who want a high-level snapshot of a typical Magento migration including key considerations, benefits, time, and costs.

Every retailer running on Magento 1 will need to migrate eventually. As the end-of-life date gets closer, many businesses may find themselves in a crunch to get it done and will be waiting in line behind other last-minute retailers. If you decide to wait, set a target date, plan your strategy, and budget for it.

How Long will a Migration Take?

The amount of time it takes to move to Magento 2 depends on the number of customizations, store complexity, extensions required, and data migration requirements. Migration for a typical store with minimal 3rd party integrations is 3 – 6 months.

What Basic Steps are Involved in a Magento 2 Migration?

Magento 2 comes with a completely different architecture and database design. A lot of people talk about “upgrading” or “migrating” to Magento 2 but migration is essentially a rebuild.

  • Clone existing Magento 1 store and use this version for migration tasks
  • Install Magento 2
  • Implement theme
  • Install extensions
  • Migrate or rewrite any code customizations
  • Move Magento settings and data – products, categories, orders, store configurations & settings, etc.
  • Implement integrations with third-party modules or systems
  • Test, test, test
  • Optimize new store SEO setup and prepare 301 redirects
  • Go live

Magento has developed tools that make components of the migration easier but most of your new site will be rebuilt from the ground up.

What Will a Magento 2 Migration Cost?

The varying nature of Magento projects makes it difficult to predict exact costs. Whether you choose Open Source or Commerce Edition will also be a factor. Most reputable agencies will perform a site evaluation to assess your functional requirements, number and types of extensions, 3rd party integrations, catalog definition, and need for custom programming before providing an estimate.

If you receive a price quote from a company that has not audited your current installation and discussed your business goals and requirements, you may be setting yourself up for disappointment and cost or schedule overruns.

Cost will also depend on your web team’s experience and skills. Successful projects require a well-rounded team of designers, managers, search engine optimization specialists, and developers. An experienced Magento agency will suggest options and ways to lower costs if necessary.

Quotes from web companies may vary widely. Although it may be tempting to go for the lowest price, be cautious. You should consider experience, time zones, communication barriers, availability, and ongoing support. Remember, you get what you pay for.

A “Cheap Site” Will Cost You More

If a developer gives you a super low estimate that sounds too good to be true, it likely is. A $10,000 Magento site can quickly turn into a $100,000 site if not done right. Magento is a complex, enterprise platform and a successful implementation requires a skilled team with experience. If your website is broken and buggy or delivers a poor user experience, spending valuable marketing dollars is a waste of money. You do not want someone to “learn on your dime”.

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Interested in Migrating to Magento 2?

Our core area of expertise is Magento. Contact us to schedule a demo of Magento 2 and get all of your questions answered by one of our Magento consultants. Call 410.972.4526 or email getinfo@smartsolutions.dev.