How To Choose The Right Credit Card Processing Terminal
Categories: Credit Cards
Written By: Christy Hoyle
If you are getting a merchant account so your business or establishment can accept credit cards, you’re probably wondering which credit card terminal you should choose. Here are the most important things to consider:
Firstly, try to think if you really do need a credit card terminal. If you run a mail order business or take sales over the Internet, you probably don’t need a terminal, but if you run a business where you deal with your customers in person, you’ll want to have a machine where they can swipe their cards.
Next you need to consider the type of connection your terminal needs to have. The old credit card machines used a telephone line to connect and complete the transaction. This is still a good choice if you have a dedicated phone line (or can share a phone line between the card terminal and your fax machine, for instance).
Newer models use Internet connections or even wireless connections, which may be a better option if your business is already wired for Internet. Talk to your payment processing company to determine what sort of transmission type is right for you.
You also need to think about exactly what you need your credit card terminal to do. Would you like it to print out two receipts automatically, for instance, or would you rather use carbon paper? Or would you prefer a terminal that includes a pad and electronic pen so the customer can “sign” directly on the terminal?
You can even get Tap and Go terminals that allow customers with certain cards to literally tap their cards on the machine and get instant approval. Customers who don’t have those cards can still swipe their credit cards with no need for signatures.
Another option you might want to consider is whether you want a credit card terminal that can also allow you to accept debit cards. This type of machines have keypads that enable PIN number entry.
Accepting debit cards is advantageous for you. It’s a very secure transaction method.
Make sure you know all your options when you’re considering getting a credit card terminal. You can even get some processors that have free equipment.
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