We have prepared this guide to inform Shopify merchants about what server-side tagging is, whether it is a good fit for them, and what they should do.
Server-Side-Tagging is a data collection and processing method that we will be talking a lot about in the upcoming years. Besides, it will probably be the main way of data-processing.
What is Server-Side Tagging
Server-side tagging has actually been around since the beginning of web analytics and is not a new concept. However, we’ve been hearing more and more about it after user privacy and cookie restrictions became a major concern, especially with Apple’s iOS14 updates.
The majority of data collecting and processing tools, including Google Tag Manager, run on the client-side, that is, in browsers such as Google Chrome. When you visit a website, cookies are loaded, processed, and sent via your browser. Therefore, if a user is running an ad or cookie blocker, tracking will not work properly.
Server-Side Tagging is essential for Shopify stores – especially for the ones that rely on remarketing campaigns.
Client-Side Tracking vs. Server-Side Tracking
Client-Side Tracking is the typical tracking method that almost all websites currently use.
Almost every action takes place in the visitor’s browser. When a visitor visits our websites, Google Tag Manager (if installed) runs through the browser (e.g. Google Chrome or Safari), reads the data layers (if installed), and sends requests to 3rd parties along with the related data attached to it.
If you are not familiar with the classic Google Tag Manager and data layer concept, you can watch this video.
In addition, you can check out this detailed client-side tracking vs. server-side tracking comparison – explained with examples and flow for Shopify stores.
Benefits of Server Side Tagging
Safari & iOS 14 Friendly
Due to Apple’s updates, using cookies and tracking in Safari and iOS apps has become more difficult than ever. You can extend the lifetime of cookies by relying on server-side tagging. It will also not be affected by iOS blocking third-party cookies. It affects Shopify merchants that use Facebook and Instagram as marketing channels especially on mobile devices.
Reduces the Impact of Ad Blockers
Many ad blockers block client-side cookies and scripts. Server-side tagging also helps with that. Ad blockers might be able to block GoogleAnalytics.com and similar requests from your Shopify store but they won’t block requests from your own subdomain.
Improves the Page Speed and Reduces the Page Load Time
One of the major negative effects on your page speed comes from third-party JavaScript libraries like Facebook Pixel, Google Analytics, and many others. Instead of installing five different scripts on your site, you will simply upload one script and send it to your server, where it will be processed and shared with third parties. That way, your server-side setup does the heavy lifting and you are not adding too much load on your visitors’ browsers.
More Control on the Data
You can control what is being sent while processing data on your server instead of sending it directly to third-party libraries. As an example, the Facebook Pixel tag might collect a lot of information about your users. However, you only need to submit a certain amount of data-set, such as purchase details. You can easily do this filtering on your server-side setup.
Why Use Server Side Tagging for Shopify Stores
Most Shopify stores rely on Facebook and Instagram as their primary marketing channel and source of revenue. Also, remarketing/retargeting campaigns are often the best performing because you’re targeting visitors who have already interacted with your Shopify store before, perhaps even purchased a product.
Having the right data is essential for understanding the behavior of your target audience and improving your marketing ROI. For example, if you are running Facebook Ads, you should send your purchase and visitor data to Facebook in the best possible way. This way, you can see your top-performing campaigns and help Facebook optimize your ads based on your data.
Facebook Pixel vs. Facebook Conversion API
- Facebook Pixel: runs in the user’s browser.
- Facebook Conversion API: works on the server-side and provides more data to your Facebook Pixel.
Facebook Conversion API is created to overcome the tracking challenges – especially the ones that come with iOS 14 updates. It works great with Server-Side Tagging on Shopify.
How to Setup Server-Side Tagging for Shopify Stores
Server-Side-Tagging setup on Shopify is a complex, technical, and delicate process. It also requires data validation and maintenance. There are several methods to achieve the result.
- Google Cloud server-side tagging, using your own server
- Analyzify server-side tracking (with enterprise-grade secure servers)
Having your own server will cost between $60-$90 or more depending on your traffic, and that may seem like an extra cost.
We offer a Google Cloud server-side tagging setup that includes server-side GTM, Analytics, Google Ads, and FB Conversion API. We help you create your own Google Cloud account and then do all of your server-side tagging on your account.
As a second option, Analyzify also offers a cost-effective server-side tracking for Shopify stores with a setup that takes just 10 minutes.
Below, you will first see what the process looks like if you opt for server-side tagging through Google Cloud infrastructure. Then, you will also explore the Analyzify server-side tracking.
Here is What the Process Looks Like
If you choose the first option, Google Cloud server-side tracking, you can expect a process like this:
Step 1: Onboarding & Account Creating
We will assist you (during a video call or by sharing detailed video documentation) with:
- Creating and connecting your own Google Cloud and server-side Google Tag Manager (sGTM) account,
- Linking your own subdomain to Google Cloud account.
Keep in mind that Analyzify should already be installed and set up in your store , because server-side tracking works on top of client-side tracking (as described above).
Step 2: Initial Setup & Validation
Data is one of the most sensitive topics for a business. That’s why we have a strict data validation phase. Once we’ve completed the setup, we first submit your data to the test properties while your setup remains intact. Then we cross-compare your original data with the new installation.
- Analyzify will integrate the related code into your store,
- All compatible tags will be merged and moved to your new sGTM account,
- Facebook Conversion API, Google Analytics, Google Ads will be set on the server-side,
- Your data will flow into the test properties for a few days and be validated.
Step 3: Production & Delivery
Once we are 100% sure that everything is working perfectly, we will disconnect your existing data analytics setup and bring your server-side tagging live.
- The installation will be pushed to production,
- The data will be carefully monitored by our experts for the upcoming 4-12 hours,
- Our team will also walk you through your sGTM installation and provide you with a detailed video series for your specific setup.
Analyzify Server-Side Tracking for Shopify
Analyzify offers a cost-effective server-side tracking solution designed to provide higher tracking accuracy, better data control, and improved marketing performance.
With a 10-minute setup process, you get seamless server-side tagging for Shopify covering major platforms like Google Analytics 4 (GA4), Meta (Facebook), and TikTok.
Higher Tracking Accuracy
Traditional client-side tracking often suffers from data loss due to ad blockers, browser restrictions, and cookie limitations.
Analyzify’s server-side solution overcomes these challenges, ensuring up to 98% tracking accuracy by processing data on a secure server rather than relying on browser-based scripts.
This leads to more reliable conversion tracking for your marketing platforms.
Optimized Performance Across Multiple Platforms
Analyzify consolidates tracking for Google Analytics, Facebook Conversion API, and TikTok Ads (coming soon) into a single, streamlined setup.
Instead of managing multiple tracking implementations, you can rely on one comprehensive solution that improves event tracking, enhances purchase attribution, and ensures data consistency across all marketing channels.
Privacy-First Approach
Our solution is fully compliant with GDPR and integrates with Google Consent Mode, allowing you to manage consent preferences while maintaining accurate tracking.
Data is processed on enterprise-grade secure servers and first-party storage within Shopify, ensuring greater control over what is shared with advertising platforms.
Faster Load Times
By shifting the tracking process to the server, Analyzify server-side tagging reduces client-side script loads, resulting in faster page speeds, better user experience, and improved SEO performance.
Fast and Effortless Implementation
Analyzify provides a simplified setup process tailored for Shopify stores:
- No technical expertise required – setup can be completed in just 10 minutes
- Cost-effective alternative – enterprise-grade tracking at a fraction of competitor costs
- Ongoing expert support – includes troubleshooting, monitoring, and guidance
FAQ: Server-Side Tagging for Shopify
What’s the difference between client-side tracking and server-side tracking?
Client-side tracking is the typical tracking method that almost all websites currently use. Almost every action takes place in the visitor’s browser. The data is collected directly from a visitor’s browser and sent to third-party platforms, but it may be affected by ad blockers, browser restrictions, and third-party cookie limitations.
Server-side tracking, on the other hand, processes data on a secure server before forwarding it to analytics and advertising platforms. This approach ensures higher tracking accuracy, improved data control, and better protection against data loss—making it a more reliable solution for Shopify merchants.
Does server-side tagging slow down a Shopify store?
No, server-side tracking does not slow down your Shopify store. In fact, it can improve page speed by reducing the number of tracking scripts running in the browser. Since data is processed on a secure server instead of the client’s device, your store can load faster while still maintaining accurate and reliable tracking.
What’s the total cost and are there any ongoing costs?
Google Cloud Server-Side Tagging:
Analyzify’s Google Cloud server-side tagging add-on costs $2790: a one-time fee for setup, service, and support. You will also need a Google Cloud account to run the server-side tagging. It comes with a $300 free credit; but depending on your traffic, it might cost between $60 – $90/month.
Analyzify Server-Side Tracking:
Analyzify’s server-side tracking for GA4, Meta (Facebook), and upcoming integrations like TikTok is included in the $945 per year pricing. Unlike other solutions that require additional cloud server costs, Analyzify’s pricing covers everything—no extra fees, no Google Cloud costs, and no hidden charges.
How long does the implementation of server-side tracking for Shopify take?
Most Analyzify server-side tracking users complete their setup within 10 minutes, using our guided wizard. Our support team is always available to help if needed.
Is Analyzify server-side tracking compatible with my Shopify setup?
Yes! Our solution is built specifically for Shopify and works seamlessly with all Shopify features and checkout processes.
Do I need technical expertise to implement Analyzify server-side tracking?
Not at all. Our solution is designed for easy implementation with no coding required. Plus, you get expert support throughout the process.
Set up Analyzify Server-Side Tracking in a few minutes, improve your tracking accuracy, and start getting reliable conversion data to make confident decisions.
- No technical expertise required
- Optimized performance for all platforms provided
- Cost-effective solution
- Expert support included
