3 Best Ways to Compare Payment Processors for Your Business

Credit card processing can be tough to understand especially for the newbie merchant. There are various steps involved in the transaction as well as different payment processors to worry about. 

Luckily, there are ways to easily compare and understand credit card processing, even for the first-timer. Here are three tips to differentiate the various payment processors available for businesses: 

1. Determine your needs.

Before you settle on a payment processor, it’s important to understand your business and your goals. One type of credit card processor may not work for a certain kind of establishment, after all. 

For example, restaurant owners are better off with a device their staff can take around the premises to improve customer service. On the other hand, supermarkets, convenience stores, and other retail establishments need to keep things safe — a credit card machine that can be safely kept in one location is their best option.

2. Do your own research.

The next step is to scour the internet for information on credit card processing. What are the different types of card machines? What organisations are involved in the transactions? How about the steps in card processing? Find out the answer to all of these questions to better understand what you need the most for your business.

3. Use an online comparison tool.

If you’re having trouble with the technical aspects of credit card processing, don’t lose hope. We’re fortunate enough to live in a time where online comparison tools are available—and for free.

An online comparison tool can give you the run-down on different debit and credit card machines, helping you decide on what’s most suitable for your business. This platform even has information on the leading card processing providers in the country, comparing their pros and cons, pricing, and available devices at the click of a button!

Portable Credit Card Machines - A Good Choice for Small Business

Why do merchants prefer using portable credit card machines for small businesses when they can just choose more affordable countertop card machines? Since these devices promise more benefits than countertop payment terminals can offer. Portable credit card machines can transform the way you do business, improve customer satisfaction, and ultimately boost your sales. 

Here are some ways you can take advantage of this amazing portable credit card machine for small business. 

Accept payments anywhere in your shop.

A portable credit card machine for small business comes with a small, lightweight, and detachable payment terminal and a base unit. It is considered portable because it allows you to take the terminal anywhere as long as it is within a few meters away from the base unit. The two are connected by Bluetooth. With this credit card machine, payment transactions can happen anywhere within your shop. You can effectively cut the long queues and decrease the waiting time for your customers. 

Transactions made easier and faster

Portable card machines let you swipe, chip and pin, and tap cards to receive payments. It is faster and more convenient for many people than paying in cash. Did you know that these machines also have built-in printers for printing receipts? That way, you can complete every payment transaction right where you are without having to go back and forth the cashier. Customers won't have to wait in the queue to pay or wait for you to get back to their table and give their change. By speeding up payment transactions, you can boost customer experience and satisfaction with your business. 

Invite more customers to your business 

A cash-only policy can repel customers who need and who are interested in your products and services. Experts predict that consumers who prefer cashless and card payments are going to increase in the coming years. So if you want more customers coming to your store, you should give them more payment options. Better yet, you should start accommodating their preferred payment methods.

People have a long list of questions when it comes to choosing and evaluating the best card machine for small businesses. But the five most common, and perhaps, most vital ones, are:

1. How are you going to accept card payments? 

To answer this question, you have to consider several things such as the nature of your trade and location of your checkout counter, if you have a store. If you are going to do business while on the go, then you have to look for a card machine for a small business that is portable, light, and lets you connect via GPRS or Wi-Fi. A card reader or a mobile card machine may be a good option. If you own a cafe or a retail store, a countertop card machine or a portable card machine that lets you take payments within the store's premise will be a reliable choice.

2. Is the card machine user-friendly?

The best credit card machine for small business is easy to use and ensure speedy payment transactions. It will take you and your staff no time to get the hang of accepting any card  or mobile payments.  

3. How much is the upfront cost?

While transaction fees matter, the upfront cost of the equipment is also worth considering. Keep in mind that the price of the hardware is going to vary between providers. Some can give you a low one-off payment. Some will give you POS software for free while others may require you to pay monthly for the software. Some providers will also ask you to pay installation fees. The best way to choose a service provider is to compare them side by side. You can find websites and online comparison tools for that. 

4. What markets does the card processor serve? 

You want to find a card processor that specialises in the industry or sector where your business belongs. That way, you can be sure that their merchant services, as well as credit card machines, are tailored to meet your specific needs. 

5. Is your credit card machine secure? 

Security is definitely a priority for your business and customers. If you want to build trust and gain the confidence of your consumers,  ensure that your card machine is secure and that all sensitive, and personal information is safe.