Know These Points before Using Card Payment Machine for Your Business

Small businesses are now realising the advantages of adapting to modern technology. More and more companies are starting to accept cashless payments to improve their sales, retain customers, and keep up with the competition.

The numbers clearly show this trend. In 2016, the total number of credit card payments amounted to over 110 billion. You can’t go wrong with using a card payment machine for your business. 

What do you need to know about card payment machines?

The payment process

Several parties are involved during a card transaction: the cardholder, merchant, card association, acquiring and issuing banks, and lastly, the payment processor. 

Surprisingly, despite the numerous parties involved, credit card transactions are quick and convenient. The entire process goes something like this:

1. The customer purchases an item and pays with the card.

2. The card is swiped through a terminal which recognises its card processing company.

3. The card processor authorises the transaction if the card has enough credit to cover the purchase.

4. The card processor sends the payment to the acquiring bank.

The types of machines

There are different kinds of card payment machines, and the best choice really depends on what features are the most appropriate for your type of business. Here’s a quick look at the options: 

1. Countertop machines

These devices are stationary and are usually placed on top of a counter. They can connect via broadband or a phone line and require a power source to function. Countertop card machines are used in clothing stores and supermarkets. 

2. Portable machines

These devices have two components: a movable terminal and a base unit. The terminal can be taken to a customer within a certain distance, while the base serves as a stationary charging unit for the machine.

Portable card machines are often used in restaurants, bars, and cafes. 

3. Mobile machines

These devices work similar to portable card payment machines but have a wider range of connectivity. Mobile card terminals function via a phone network and can be taken on the move.

Astounding Portable Credit Card Machines for Faster and Effective Transactions

 What is the best way to take quick, hassle-free payments from your customers? There’s a popular device that can offer just that, and more: Portable credit card machines. 

Investing in a portable card machine is the way to go when you are looking to boost your sales. These lightweight devices are especially useful for businesses in the food and beverage industry. Restaurants, cafés, and pubs all need an efficient payment method to improve their customer service.  

What makes portable credit card machines special?  

1. Mobility

Customers would rather sit at their tables and enjoy their food and their company. There’s no reason to disturb them when it comes time to pay the bill. Instead, you can bring the card reader directly to their tables. The portable card machine’s terminal can be taken as far as 50 meters, which is enough for any small to the medium-sized establishment. This easy mobility is possible thanks to a Bluetooth connection that allows the terminal and the base unit to connect and communicate with each other.

2. Cost-effectiveness

It’s no secret that portable card machines cost more than the regular card reader. However, the extra expense is worth it. One device can be shared between multiple employees, decreasing the need for another unit. This actually saves money. 

3. Functionality

Leading providers offer portable credit card machines that can take contactless payments, so your business can quickly start adapting to modern payment standards, such as Android and Apple Pay. The device collects data via a broadband or phone connection. Once the payment has been processed and approved, you’ll receive the funds in as fast as 2 to 4 days. 

Do you want to find out more about portable card machines? Consult a trusty online comparison tool to discover the rental costs and features of leading providers in the UK.