{"id":1978295779397,"title":"Mobile Payment Solutions","handle":"mobile-payment-solutions","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"title\"\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"h1 u-bold\"\u003eUse a mobile credit card reader to accept payments on-the-go\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake payments anywhere your customers are with an easy-to-use mobile credit card reader that attaches directly to your smartphone or tablet. It’s the perfect add-on to a stationary credit card terminal or point of sale system and it’s a great stand-alone option for certain small business ventures and service providers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-text-band-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-text-band module--grey \"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow mobile card readers work\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMobile card readers allow a user to process payments without traditional payment hardware like a credit card terminal or point of sale (POS) system, and in some cases, without a merchant account.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe hardware\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hardware components of smartphone readers can vary.  Some are basically a magnetic stripe reader that plugs into the audio jack or charging port of a smartphone or tablet.  The user swipes the card through the magnetic stripe reader to enter the card info into the associated app on the phone or tablet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOthers connect the card reader to the phone and app via Bluetooth technology.  The user pairs the device to the phone and then swipes the card. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNewer mobile card readers also use a chip reader to meet the EMV standard for fraud prevention when accepting cards with an embedded data chip.  This version substitutes the magnetic stripe reader with a chip “dip” slot.  When accepting a chip card, the user inserts the card into the device and leaves it during the transaction instead of swiping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMobile card readers are generally programmed to work with a specific payment provider.  It’s a good idea to pick your payment provider, and then get the reader device, since a device you buy independently isn’t guaranteed to work with your chosen provider. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe software\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe software is generally accessed via mobile app.  The user opens the app, enters a dollar amount to be charged in the sale total field, and swipes or dips the card to process the payment. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen, the user is asked to sign their name (with a finger or a stylus) right on the phone or tablet, and may have the option to request a printed or emailed receipt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost providers charge for the device, not the app. But some will require a merchant account in order to process payments.  All options have associated payment processing fees.  Read along for more details about the costs. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-text-band-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-text-band \"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMobile payment card readers have a lot to offer\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetween their versatility, their mobility, and their small size, mobile card readers are a powerful addition to payments technology.  There isn’t just one type of merchant who uses mobile card readers.   Different types of businesses have different uses for mobile card readers. Let’s explore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe brick and mortar location merchant\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBusinesses that have a physical brick and mortar location have several uses for tablet and smart phone card readers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eNew businesses with an unknown transaction volume amount\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of merchant may be hesitant to purchase expensive POS equipment and enroll in a\u003cspan\u003e merchant services\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eaccount since they’re just getting started. They may need all of their cash to fund other start-up costs like inventory and space rent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA mobile reader is a great stop-gap solution for hesitant and\/or brand-new merchants. It will allow the merchant to capitalize on the benefits of credit card acceptance\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewithout much risk or upfront investment. It can also help establish a base-line of transaction frequency and volume that can come in handy during rates negotiations for a longer-term solution down the road.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe small operator\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn established merchant with a known average sales volume and a steady credit card transaction history may determine that the low cost and simplicity of mobile card payments is a good long-term solution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of merchant likely doesn’t have a need for other business technology solutions that POS systems provide like inventory control, employee scheduling, and customer loyalty programs. With modest sales volume, manually reconciling cash with the credit card receipts isn’t a time-consuming burden for this merchant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eEstablished businesses with a tethered POS system\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome businesses with a brick and mortar location already have a POS system or credit card terminal, but occasionally do business away from their physical business storefront or restaurant. Consider seasonal events like street fairs, off-site concerts, road shows, or other special events. Before mobile card readers, these types of events required cash-only sales, which can greatly reduce overall revenue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a mobile card reader, the business can take a credit card payment away from their brick and mortar location with no hassles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe homebased business owner\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA homebased business owner using a mobile smart phone card reader likely doesn’t have the kind of business model and\/or sales volume that requires a brick and mortar storefront, employees, or cash register.  They want to take credit card payments once in a while, without the hassle of establishing a standard merchant account and stationary payment system.  And they aren’t worried about scalability at this stage. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe service provider\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eService providers may be a mix of the above merchant types. They can be homebased, or working out of a physical location; they might have low sales volume with high dollar tickets, or any other combination of factors.  They’re worth calling out separately because of the likelihood that they’ll need to take a payment away from their business office, or they may operate entirely without a centralized business office. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsider service providers like:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys-column columns--two\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys_column columns--two-c0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReal estate inspectors and appraisers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding contractors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMassage therapists\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTutors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHairstylists (and other booth renters)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys_column columns--two-c1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMovers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarpet cleaners\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBabysitters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHousekeepers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePest control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-text-band-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-text-band module--grey \"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eConsiderations for purchasing a mobile card processing reader\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you think a mobile credit and debit card reader is right for you, how do you know which one to get?  How do you sign up and what are the costs?  The answers to these questions are strongly related to the business types listed above.  Read along for more insights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMerchant account vs. payment facilitator or aggregator\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMobile readers need to have a payment service powering them in order to perform transactions.  There are two options: a standard merchant account, or a payment facilitator\/addregator service. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA brick and mortar merchant with an existing payments solution and merchant account who is interested in adding mobile acceptance capability should definitely work with their current provider. A third-party mobile solution doesn’t make sense financially or operationally for a merchant with an existing system and payment provider.  Luckily, adding mobile functionality to their existing solution should be fairly painless and low-cost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt does make sense for small operators and homebased businesses to consider the benefits a payment facilitator account can offer.  Payment facilitators, or PayFacs as they’re known in the payments industry, are appealing to some smaller businesses because of the simplicity they can deliver.  A PayFac can sign individual merchants up under a master account, which saves the individual merchants the hassles of establishing their own account.  It’s generally a quick enrollment with no need to undergo lengthy underwriting and approval process. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimplicity also refers to the fee structure of PayFacs since they generally don’t offer interchange-plus pricing. Because interchange is complex, pay-as-you-go pricing (flat fee pricing) might feel more straightforward to some merchants. There are generally fewer fees and rate fluctuations on the monthly statement for things like account maintenance, security fees, and such that can feel frustrating to some merchants.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, depending on your sales volume, it can end up costing more in the long run.  Although the fees are “flat,” they also tend to be higher than with a traditional merchant account.  A merchant with lots of small dollar transaction amounts will soon realize the high cost of flat fee pricing.  But a merchant with lower volume can benefit from flat fee pricing since they won’t be upcharged for rewards cards or minimum sales fees.  Some PayFac providers also have transaction amount limits and weekly volume processing limits that can hinder business operations at times.  Still, for some business models, PayFac services will have more appeal than traditional merchant accounts. Do some research to determine which pricing structure better suits your business.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFeatures that make mobile card readers great\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eEMV\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough you can buy a basic mobile credit card device, it’s a good idea to buy one with the latest technology—particularly EMV. EMV functionality allows merchants to safely accept chip cards and avoid liability for fraud that may occur with those cards. As with other EMV-enabled terminals, an EMV mobile card reader can accept magnetic stripe cards as well as the newer chip cards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eNFC\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNear Field Communication (NFC) capability enables digital wallet acceptance like Apple Pay and Android Pay. With an NFC-enabled card reader, a customer can simply tap their smartphone with a digital wallet to the card reader to execute a secure mobile payment. NFC and EMV are often offered in tandem, so the slight increase in cost between a magnetic stripe reader and an NFC\/EMV is easily justified by the fraud protection and customer convenience you’ll get.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eService\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most important though often overlooked features of a mobile card reader is the customer service and technical support available to the merchant. If you’re adding mobile acceptance to your standard merchant account, the customer support available to you shouldn’t differ from your normal service. But if you’re considering a payment facilitator\/aggregator, be sure to ask about customer service availability. One of the biggest complaints from one of the most popular providers is the difficulty customers have had in receiving effective and responsive customer support. Make sure you’ll be able to reach a knowledgeable support representative by phone whenever you need help.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eBluetooth\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBluetooth is another highly-desirable feature for mobile readers. Many business operators use their mobile phone or tablet for other purposes besides processing credit and debit cards. Plugging the device into the phone or tablet for every transaction can be annoying. Additionally, some plug in versions may feel flimsy and awkward when swiping the card. A Bluetooth compatible device tends to be more substantial while remaining small and unobtrusive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eDock\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you plan to use a tablet with your mobile card reader, you may want to consider a docking station. Some solutions are substantial enough to resemble a tablet-based POS solution when used in conjunction with a docking station. In addition to providing more physical stability, they can also tap into a provider’s “storefront” solution enabling multiple devices and apps to run in concert with the payments app.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"cq-text-placeholder-ipe\" data-emptytext=\"Text\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-text-band-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-text-band \"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMobile card readers from Consultant In-A-Box partners offer the best of everything\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMobile credit card readers come in a variety of styles.  We power our readers with a robust processing service and always-on customer support.  No matter what your business size or style, we have a mobile solution for you. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCard readers deliver big benefits:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys-column columns--two\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys_column columns--two-c0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAccept EMV chip cards, magstripe card payments, and NFC\/contactless payments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTake greater control over receivables—no waiting for invoice payments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCloud-based inventory for easy selection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply discounts, tips and applicable tax\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOffline mode to process transactions without wireless or cell service\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUser analytics track tips and payouts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys_column columns--two-c1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with smartphones and tablets with iOS 5 and up, and Android 2.1 and up\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAuthorization responses directly on your mobile device\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview past transactions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIssue returns and offer refunds upon request\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMultiple reporting options, including exporting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-signup-form-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-signup-form t-bg-color\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner white u-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"module__title\"\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","published_at":"2018-12-17T13:24:17-06:00","created_at":"2018-12-17T13:30:03-06:00","vendor":"consultantsinabox","type":"","tags":[],"price":0,"price_min":0,"price_max":0,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":18838763733061,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":"","requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"Mobile Payment Solutions","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":0,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_management":null,"barcode":"","requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/consultantsinabox.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/mobile_payments.jpg?v=1548857133"],"featured_image":"\/\/consultantsinabox.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/mobile_payments.jpg?v=1548857133","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":"Mobile Payment Solutions in Sioux Falls, South Dakota","id":3714672263237,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.708,"height":370,"width":632,"src":"\/\/consultantsinabox.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/mobile_payments.jpg?v=1548857133"},"aspect_ratio":1.708,"height":370,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/consultantsinabox.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/mobile_payments.jpg?v=1548857133","width":632}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cdiv class=\"title\"\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"h1 u-bold\"\u003eUse a mobile credit card reader to accept payments on-the-go\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTake payments anywhere your customers are with an easy-to-use mobile credit card reader that attaches directly to your smartphone or tablet. It’s the perfect add-on to a stationary credit card terminal or point of sale system and it’s a great stand-alone option for certain small business ventures and service providers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-text-band-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-text-band module--grey \"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow mobile card readers work\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMobile card readers allow a user to process payments without traditional payment hardware like a credit card terminal or point of sale (POS) system, and in some cases, without a merchant account.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe hardware\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hardware components of smartphone readers can vary.  Some are basically a magnetic stripe reader that plugs into the audio jack or charging port of a smartphone or tablet.  The user swipes the card through the magnetic stripe reader to enter the card info into the associated app on the phone or tablet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOthers connect the card reader to the phone and app via Bluetooth technology.  The user pairs the device to the phone and then swipes the card. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNewer mobile card readers also use a chip reader to meet the EMV standard for fraud prevention when accepting cards with an embedded data chip.  This version substitutes the magnetic stripe reader with a chip “dip” slot.  When accepting a chip card, the user inserts the card into the device and leaves it during the transaction instead of swiping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMobile card readers are generally programmed to work with a specific payment provider.  It’s a good idea to pick your payment provider, and then get the reader device, since a device you buy independently isn’t guaranteed to work with your chosen provider. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe software\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe software is generally accessed via mobile app.  The user opens the app, enters a dollar amount to be charged in the sale total field, and swipes or dips the card to process the payment. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThen, the user is asked to sign their name (with a finger or a stylus) right on the phone or tablet, and may have the option to request a printed or emailed receipt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost providers charge for the device, not the app. But some will require a merchant account in order to process payments.  All options have associated payment processing fees.  Read along for more details about the costs. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-text-band-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-text-band \"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMobile payment card readers have a lot to offer\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetween their versatility, their mobility, and their small size, mobile card readers are a powerful addition to payments technology.  There isn’t just one type of merchant who uses mobile card readers.   Different types of businesses have different uses for mobile card readers. Let’s explore.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe brick and mortar location merchant\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBusinesses that have a physical brick and mortar location have several uses for tablet and smart phone card readers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eNew businesses with an unknown transaction volume amount\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of merchant may be hesitant to purchase expensive POS equipment and enroll in a\u003cspan\u003e merchant services\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eaccount since they’re just getting started. They may need all of their cash to fund other start-up costs like inventory and space rent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA mobile reader is a great stop-gap solution for hesitant and\/or brand-new merchants. It will allow the merchant to capitalize on the benefits of credit card acceptance\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ewithout much risk or upfront investment. It can also help establish a base-line of transaction frequency and volume that can come in handy during rates negotiations for a longer-term solution down the road.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe small operator\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn established merchant with a known average sales volume and a steady credit card transaction history may determine that the low cost and simplicity of mobile card payments is a good long-term solution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of merchant likely doesn’t have a need for other business technology solutions that POS systems provide like inventory control, employee scheduling, and customer loyalty programs. With modest sales volume, manually reconciling cash with the credit card receipts isn’t a time-consuming burden for this merchant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eEstablished businesses with a tethered POS system\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome businesses with a brick and mortar location already have a POS system or credit card terminal, but occasionally do business away from their physical business storefront or restaurant. Consider seasonal events like street fairs, off-site concerts, road shows, or other special events. Before mobile card readers, these types of events required cash-only sales, which can greatly reduce overall revenue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a mobile card reader, the business can take a credit card payment away from their brick and mortar location with no hassles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe homebased business owner\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA homebased business owner using a mobile smart phone card reader likely doesn’t have the kind of business model and\/or sales volume that requires a brick and mortar storefront, employees, or cash register.  They want to take credit card payments once in a while, without the hassle of establishing a standard merchant account and stationary payment system.  And they aren’t worried about scalability at this stage. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe service provider\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eService providers may be a mix of the above merchant types. They can be homebased, or working out of a physical location; they might have low sales volume with high dollar tickets, or any other combination of factors.  They’re worth calling out separately because of the likelihood that they’ll need to take a payment away from their business office, or they may operate entirely without a centralized business office. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsider service providers like:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys-column columns--two\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys_column columns--two-c0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReal estate inspectors and appraisers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding contractors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMassage therapists\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTutors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHairstylists (and other booth renters)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys_column columns--two-c1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMovers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCarpet cleaners\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBabysitters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHousekeepers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePest control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-text-band-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-text-band module--grey \"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eConsiderations for purchasing a mobile card processing reader\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you think a mobile credit and debit card reader is right for you, how do you know which one to get?  How do you sign up and what are the costs?  The answers to these questions are strongly related to the business types listed above.  Read along for more insights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMerchant account vs. payment facilitator or aggregator\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMobile readers need to have a payment service powering them in order to perform transactions.  There are two options: a standard merchant account, or a payment facilitator\/addregator service. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA brick and mortar merchant with an existing payments solution and merchant account who is interested in adding mobile acceptance capability should definitely work with their current provider. A third-party mobile solution doesn’t make sense financially or operationally for a merchant with an existing system and payment provider.  Luckily, adding mobile functionality to their existing solution should be fairly painless and low-cost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt does make sense for small operators and homebased businesses to consider the benefits a payment facilitator account can offer.  Payment facilitators, or PayFacs as they’re known in the payments industry, are appealing to some smaller businesses because of the simplicity they can deliver.  A PayFac can sign individual merchants up under a master account, which saves the individual merchants the hassles of establishing their own account.  It’s generally a quick enrollment with no need to undergo lengthy underwriting and approval process. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimplicity also refers to the fee structure of PayFacs since they generally don’t offer interchange-plus pricing. Because interchange is complex, pay-as-you-go pricing (flat fee pricing) might feel more straightforward to some merchants. There are generally fewer fees and rate fluctuations on the monthly statement for things like account maintenance, security fees, and such that can feel frustrating to some merchants.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, depending on your sales volume, it can end up costing more in the long run.  Although the fees are “flat,” they also tend to be higher than with a traditional merchant account.  A merchant with lots of small dollar transaction amounts will soon realize the high cost of flat fee pricing.  But a merchant with lower volume can benefit from flat fee pricing since they won’t be upcharged for rewards cards or minimum sales fees.  Some PayFac providers also have transaction amount limits and weekly volume processing limits that can hinder business operations at times.  Still, for some business models, PayFac services will have more appeal than traditional merchant accounts. Do some research to determine which pricing structure better suits your business.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFeatures that make mobile card readers great\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eEMV\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough you can buy a basic mobile credit card device, it’s a good idea to buy one with the latest technology—particularly EMV. EMV functionality allows merchants to safely accept chip cards and avoid liability for fraud that may occur with those cards. As with other EMV-enabled terminals, an EMV mobile card reader can accept magnetic stripe cards as well as the newer chip cards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eNFC\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNear Field Communication (NFC) capability enables digital wallet acceptance like Apple Pay and Android Pay. With an NFC-enabled card reader, a customer can simply tap their smartphone with a digital wallet to the card reader to execute a secure mobile payment. NFC and EMV are often offered in tandem, so the slight increase in cost between a magnetic stripe reader and an NFC\/EMV is easily justified by the fraud protection and customer convenience you’ll get.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eService\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most important though often overlooked features of a mobile card reader is the customer service and technical support available to the merchant. If you’re adding mobile acceptance to your standard merchant account, the customer support available to you shouldn’t differ from your normal service. But if you’re considering a payment facilitator\/aggregator, be sure to ask about customer service availability. One of the biggest complaints from one of the most popular providers is the difficulty customers have had in receiving effective and responsive customer support. Make sure you’ll be able to reach a knowledgeable support representative by phone whenever you need help.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eBluetooth\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBluetooth is another highly-desirable feature for mobile readers. Many business operators use their mobile phone or tablet for other purposes besides processing credit and debit cards. Plugging the device into the phone or tablet for every transaction can be annoying. Additionally, some plug in versions may feel flimsy and awkward when swiping the card. A Bluetooth compatible device tends to be more substantial while remaining small and unobtrusive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cb\u003eDock\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you plan to use a tablet with your mobile card reader, you may want to consider a docking station. Some solutions are substantial enough to resemble a tablet-based POS solution when used in conjunction with a docking station. In addition to providing more physical stability, they can also tap into a provider’s “storefront” solution enabling multiple devices and apps to run in concert with the payments app.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"cq-text-placeholder-ipe\" data-emptytext=\"Text\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-text-band-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-text-band \"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMobile card readers from Consultant In-A-Box partners offer the best of everything\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMobile credit card readers come in a variety of styles.  We power our readers with a robust processing service and always-on customer support.  No matter what your business size or style, we have a mobile solution for you. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCard readers deliver big benefits:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys-column columns--two\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys_column columns--two-c0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAccept EMV chip cards, magstripe card payments, and NFC\/contactless payments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTake greater control over receivables—no waiting for invoice payments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCloud-based inventory for easy selection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApply discounts, tips and applicable tax\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOffline mode to process transactions without wireless or cell service\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUser analytics track tips and payouts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"parsys_column columns--two-c1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with smartphones and tablets with iOS 5 and up, and Android 2.1 and up\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAuthorization responses directly on your mobile device\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview past transactions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIssue returns and offer refunds upon request\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMultiple reporting options, including exporting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"m-signup-form-cq\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module m-signup-form t-bg-color\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"module__inner white u-center\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"module__title\"\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n"}