Business Credit Card Comparison, how?
Is there an FAQ or one-stop shopping web site for a small business looking
to get credit card processing terminal?
When I tried to research this topic on the web, I found too many web sites
touting this kind of service. Some claim to have no monthly fee, no
transaction fee, etc. But I have the feeling there is a catch somewhere.
What I need is an unbiased comparison of services and prices, or a starting
point.
Some of the questions I have:
Dedicated terminal versus PC software + card reader?
Can Paypal be used with a dedicated credit card terminal? Is PayPal cost
competitive if used this way?
One company recommended an Omni 3750. Is this a good choice? Why the memory
option, what can adding more memory do for me?
Are all the credit card processing terminals compatible with all the
merchant account services? Why do some processing company require I send
them the machine to reprogram? Why can't they send me programming
instructions?
If special equipments are needed to reprogram (say, omni 3750), is there a
comparable machine that can be program without special equipments, or via a
PC?
Anything to watch out for before committing to a processing company?
There are terminals and services for sale on ebay itself. Some of these
merchant have amateur-looking web site and non toll free numbers, has anyone
used them?
The first place I would go is to your bank where you have your business
accounts and ask them what they have to offer. Chances are they won't be
able to offer you a competitive package for internet sales as they are more
apt to discourage you from them since there is less aggravation and risk for
POS for everyone involved. If you have a physical storefront you will do
really well with your bank.
You won't be the first person traveling down this road so they should be
able to recommend a few alternative services that are reasonably priced for
internet sales. I would be very careful searching on the internet for this,
as there are many hidden costs and pitfalls. Talk to some of your business
associates and ask them what works for them.
As for PayPal, my feeling is it is a great tool for eBay sales only. Only
offering PayPal on an off eBay website looks very tacky and unprofessional
while giving off the aura of a "bargain basement" or " boiler room"
operation. I would only offer PayPal in conjunction with your merchants
account.