Shopify POS: Streamlining Card Processing without an External Terminal

Introduction

Shopify, a leading eCommerce platform, has also taken the world of brick-and-mortar stores by storm with the introduction of Shopify POS (Point of Sale). Shopify POS enables a seamless integration of your physical store and online operations by simplifying payment processing. This blog post will discuss the ins and outs of processing card payments without using an external terminal for your Shopify POS.

Why Consider Shopify POS?

Shopify POS enables a truly versatile and powerful sales system. By integrating it with your eCommerce store, you can track inventory, manage customers, and streamline your entire sales process. With advanced features like synchronization, automatic tax calculation, and digital receipts, Shopify POS gives you all the tools necessary for managing your business effectively. Not to mention, Shopify POS offers an easy and efficient way for processing card payments without using an external terminal.

Processing Card Payments with Shopify POS

One of the most critical aspects of any retail operation is accepting credit and debit card payments easily and conveniently. Shopify POS provides an all-in-one solution to meet your card processing needs, without the need for an external terminal. Let's take a look at the process:

Hardware Options

Using Shopify POS for card processing means that you have a choice of hardware options, depending on your business needs and preferences. Some popular options include the Shopify Chip & Swipe Reader, Shopify Tap & Chip Reader, and the all-inclusive Shopify Retail Kit.

The Chip & Swipe Reader is a compact, mobile-friendly option that lets you process card payments quickly and securely. The Tap & Chip Reader features contactless payment capabilities, which allows customers to pay with their smartphones or smartwatches. The Retail Kit, on the other hand, bundles all the necessary hardware like a barcode scanner and receipt printer in one place.

Card Processing Fees

Using Shopify POS for card processing also means that you are subject to their transaction fees. Depending on the Shopify plan you choose, the card processing fees may vary. Basic Shopify, Shopify, and Advanced Shopify plans offer 2.7%, 2.5%, and 2.4% in-person transaction fees, respectively. It's essential to review these fees while considering your overall operational costs.

How to Process Card Payments

1. Launching the POS app:To process card payments without an external terminal, start by launching the Shopify POS app on your iPad or Android tablet.

2. Adding products to the cart:Add items to the cart by either scanning the barcode, searching for the product, or browsing your catalog.

3. Initiating the payment process:After entering the customer's email address for a digital receipt, tap on the "Total" button, which will prompt the payment process to begin.

4. Processing card payments:Ask your customers to insert their chip card into the card reader or swipe their magnetic stripe card. For contactless payments, the cardholder should hold their card, smartphone, or smartwatch near the card reader.

5. Completing the transaction:Once the transaction is approved, the device will display a successful transaction notification. You can now provide your customer with a digital or physical receipt, as required.

Additional Benefits of Using Shopify POS

Android and iOS compatibility:The Shopify POS app is available for both Android tablets and the iPad, making it accessible on different devices.

Easy integration with your online store:Shopify POS connects directly to your Shopify eCommerce store, syncing the inventory, customer data, and orders.

Inventory management:Track and manage your inventory in real-time as your online and offline sales sync.

Customer profiles:Collect customer information during the checkout process, helping you build your customer database and subsequently, your marketing strategies.

Advanced analytics:Shopify POS tracks sales data, offering insights into trends and customer behavior, enabling you to make informed business decisions.

Final Thoughts

Shopify POS offers an all-in-one solution for processing card payments without the need for an external terminal. Integrating the POS system with your eCommerce store not only streamlines your sales process but also simplifies your overall business operations. By effectively leveraging Shopify POS, you can maximize your sales opportunities and enhance the customer experience, both online and in-store.