Credit Card Machines are an essential part of any business today. With the rise in digital payments, they provide a secure and reliable way for customers to pay for goods or services without having to use cash.
These machines come with a variety of features and benefits, including the ability to accept multiple payment types, provide detailed transaction records, and remote connectivity. They are easy to set up, and most machines come with built-in support for protection against fraud.
Regardless of whether you are accepting payments in store, on the go, or online, Credit Card Machines can help you streamline your business operations and improve the customer experience.
A credit card machine is an electronic device that allows customers to make a purchase using their credit or debit card. Modern machines can also accept digital wallets, contactless and mobile payments.
When a transaction is initiated, the machine then processes the payment and sends an authorisation code back to the merchant to approve the transaction. This code is then used to generate a receipt and complete the purchase.
These machines use sophisticated technology and security protocols to encrypt customer information, and most machines come with built-in fraud protection. This means that if fraudulent activity is detected, the cardholder’s account will be blocked until the situation can be resolved.
It is estimated that in 2022, more than 40% of purchases in the UK were made using credit cards. That goes to show why it is so important for businesses to have reliable and secure card machines.
Credit card machines can accept a wide variety of payment types. Here are the most common ones.
The Chip and Pin payment system uses a card with an embedded microchip, which is inserted into the machine and read. The customer then enters their four digit personal pin number to authorise the transaction.
This payment method is EMV compliant, meaning it follows the latest industry standards and is secure.
Many card machines now offer contactless payments, where customers can simply tap their debit or credit card on the reader to initiate and authorise the transaction. This payment method uses NFC (Near Field Communication) technology to securely transfer payment information between the card and the device.
Contactless payments are secure, fast and convenient for customers. Digital wallets like Apple Pay now allow customers to tap their mobile phones to initiate the transaction.
Card not present (CNP) payments are when a customer does not physically present their card to the machine. This includes payments that are taken over the phone, or online. For CNP payments, the card details are keyed in manually.
The Magnetic Stripe payment system is an older technology which has largely been replaced by Chip and Pin. It uses a card with a magnetic strip which is swiped through the reader. Customers enter their four digit personal pin number to authorise the transaction.
This payment method is not as secure as Chip and Pin, but it is still widely accepted in many countries.
There are different types of card machines available, from countertop terminals to mobile solutions. Merchants must select the appropriate one depending on their business type, connectivity, and features.
Countertop Terminals are the most common type of card machine and also the cheapest of them all. These are commonly used in retail business outlets and hospitality settings. They work with a phone line or an EPOS system and are ideal for accepting payments on-the-go.
Portable card machines are similar to countertop terminals, but they have the added advantage of remote connectivity via Wi-Fi or GPRS. This makes them ideal if you need to accept payments on-the-go or in multiple locations.
Portable Card Machines bring flexibility and convenience, with features such as contactless and Apple Pay, making it easier for customers to pay.
Mobile card machines are an ideal solution for businesses on the move, such as market traders and service providers. They are extremely small and lightweight and connect remotely to a payment provider via a mobile phone network.
Mobile card machines come with a range of features, such as contactless payments and digital wallet support.
There are multiple components to card machine costs, such as the hardware, the software, setup fees and transaction fees to name a few.
It’s important for merchants to be aware of all the costs associated with card machines, as it can be easy to overlook hidden fees.
The actual card machine is just the hardware component which can be used with any third party processing software. There are tons of options, each one with varying features, benefits and some drawbacks.
Does the business demand a portable card machine? Do you seek compatibility with EPOS and other business software?
Merchants also have the option of leasing the machine as opposed to buying it outright. Leasing may be better suited for merchants who only need the card machine on a short-term basis or are just starting out in business.
The lease duration also effects the monthly lease. Longer durations often result in lower monthly payments. The average lease ranges from £15 – £30 per month for longer term contracts.
The merchant account provider usually charges a transaction fee for each card payment made on the machine. There may be additional charges for refunds or failed payments.
Most merchant account providers charge a one-time set up fee to install the software on the card machine and connect it to the merchant account.
It seems like a straightforward process, but there are a few things to consider before you sign a lease agreement.
Firstly, make sure that the machine is compatible with the software you need, such as EPOS and other business software. Research the different providers to find one that offer the features that are important for your business.
Look for security, compliance with EMV and PCI standards, and good customer support.
Finally, check the terms of the lease agreement to ensure that you understand all the fees involved and that there are no hidden costs.
Leasing a card machine is a great way for merchants to accept payments more easily and securely. With the right merchant account provider, you can get the perfect card machine for your business needs.
We provide tailored leasing options to help merchants find the best deal for their needs. We can provide you with a range of competitively priced options from the leading providers, so you can get the best card machine for your business.
So, if you need a card machine that is reliable, secure and easy to use, then get in touch with us today!
About
Taking Payments
High Risk Solutions
Guides
Copyright © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 2023 | Merchant Advice is a division of OCRO LTD Company Number 12774706 | 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom, WC2H 9JQ