A Guide To Setting Up A Card Machine For Small Businesses

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The idea of not taking cash seems counterintuitive. We’ve all grown up with banknotes and coins our whole lives. But times are changing. There’s a slow and steady move towards cashless payments happening all around us. More and more customers are using cards and digital payments rather than physical money these days.

As much as we love the nostalgia of cash, even the most old-school businesses are evolving with the times to stay relevant. The truth is, refusing credit card payments nowadays is like refusing email back in the 90s. You can do it, but you risk getting left behind.

Getting set up to accept card payments can advance your business potential. It shows customers you’re forward-thinking and makes it easier for them to do business with you.

Below are some of the options for getting started with card payments:

Standalone terminals: A basic machine that allows you to swipe, tap, and chip cards. These are affordable but often require a phone line or internet connection.

Countertop terminals: Stylish, compact terminals that are perfect for retail counters and restaurants. They offer tap, swipe, and chip capabilities and connect via WiFi or Ethernet.

Mobile terminals: For businesses on the go, a wireless terminal connects via Bluetooth to your smartphone or tablet. You can take payments anywhere with full functionality.

Consider your budget, space limitations, and transaction volume to select the perfect model. Do you need something portable for markets and events? Or a more full-featured terminal for your retail outlet?

Once you’ve found the right device, accept all major card brands like Visa and Mastercard. Look for equipment that accepts contactless and mobile payments too.

Card machine providers in South Africa

The card machine landscape in South Africa offers options for any type of business. Whether you need a mobile solution for payments on the go or a full-featured POS terminal for your store, there is a provider that can meet your needs. This overview of the top players should give you a headstart in choosing the right card acceptance solution to empower your business.

Major Banks

The big banks like ABSA, Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank, and Capitec provide reliable card machines. They offer entry-level to advanced POS terminals on flexible plans. Contact your bank to explore their options and find one that aligns with your requirements.

iKhokha

As a small business owner, you need a fast and reliable card machine that can handle your sales needs. iKhokha offers two solutions. The iK Flyer is a stylish touchscreen card machine that enables quick transactions, sales tracking, and uninterrupted service during load shedding. You can buy it for R1499, including the charging base and free delivery. For maximum mobility, the pocket-sized iK Mover pairs seamlessly with the iKhokha app so you can get paid on the go. At just R499, it’s a smart choice for businesses on the move.

Yoco

Yoco has a range of card machines to suit businesses of all sizes and budgets. The entry-level Yoco Go pairs with your phone for card payments on the fly. Pay zero transaction fees until you hit R5000 in sales or 3 months, whichever comes first. After that, fees are a competitive 2.95% (ex. VAT). Get started for a one-time fee of R749. For a sleek countertop terminal, the Yoco Neo Touch offers unlimited 4G data and costs R899 upfront plus R49 per month. Step up to the feature-packed Khumo for R1199 upfront and R49 monthly to get staff profiles, product catalogues, and more. Top of the range is the Khumo Print which has unlimited data and a built-in receipt printer for R1999 upfront and R49 monthly.

WAPPoint

WAPPoint focuses on flexible rental plans to get you started with card payments. Based on your monthly turnover, you can rent their devices for free or at competitive rates. The PocketPOSTM (free if turnover >R5000) is a compact mobile solution for startups. The MINIPOS (free if turnover >R25000) works well for multiple cashiers with its dual SIM capability. For high volume businesses, the PRINTPOS (free if turnover >R45000) offers robust performance with built-in printing. WAPPoint also lets you sell airtime, electricity, and track sales data.

Vodapay

Vodapay makes accepting payments easy with two innovative card machines. The Vodapay Max is a smart terminal that allows tap, scan, swipe, or insert payments. Rental includes free insurance and no hidden fees, just R311/month. For a fully standalone mini POS, the pocket-sized Vodapay Kwika has a built-in SIM for unlimited tap, scan, swipe or insert payments anywhere. Own it outright for R799 upfront and benefit from competitive fees and no setup, minimum or hidden costs.

Why You Should Accept Card Payments for Your Business

Card transactions are quick and easy for your customers! There is no need for them to carry cash; just tap, insert, or swipe. This makes payments convenient and seamless for them.

Accepting cards opens up your business to sales from cardholders. You’ll capture more business by catering to customers who prefer paying by card.

Reduce security risks. Less cash on your premises lowers theft and loss risks. Card payments leave digital trails to help verify transactions.

Go mobile. Accept payments anywhere with affordable mobile card readers. Sell at trade shows, pop-up stores, or right at your customer’s location.

Get detailed insights. Some card processors provide reporting tools that give you valuable insights into your sales, customers, and business performance. See trends, track growth, and gain data to help optimise your marketing.

Increased credibility. Accepting cards makes your business seem more legitimate and established in customers’ eyes. This helps you compete with larger companies.

The benefits clearly show why card payments make sense. Embrace modern electronic payments to lift your business higher. The future is cashless and cards offer security, convenience, and rewards. Get on board and profit.