Cash Register With Credit Card Terminal

While plenty of independent credit card terminals are available, others are found in cash registers. If looking for a cash register with credit card terminal, check out some of the pros and cons of this option to determine if it’s best for your business:

Pro: More Counter Space

One pro of using a cash register with credit card terminal is more counter space. The terminal is integrated directly into the register, meaning you won’t need more space to add a separate device. If already dealing with limited counter space, using a cash register that already features a credit card terminal is ideal. The saved space can be used for other merchandise and displays, or simply offer customers more room when taking out their wallets to pay for items.

Con: System Breakdown

Perhaps the biggest issue when using a cash register with credit card terminal is a system breakdown. If one part of the device breaks down, it’s likely the whole register will require replacing. This is usually why you see separate terminals in businesses that frequently take credit cards, such as retail chains, grocery stores and fast food franchises. Some even feature cash registers with built-in credit card swipers connecting to a terminal device that faces customers at the register for signatures and PIN numbers.

Pro: Error Possibility Reduced

The possibility of error is reduced significantly when using a cash register with credit card terminal, as the card is charged only what the register rings.

Con: Limited Mobility

It’s generally quite challenging to haul a cash register that includes a credit card terminal to assorted business events, such as trade shows, conventions, festivals, craft fairs, concerts and any other event where you hope to make money and increase brand awareness. Cash registers with credit card terminals usually stay in one place, and therefore limit business-related travel. If you decide this type of cash register is best for your business, you may want to look at wireless and other mobile terminal options, such as card readers for smartphones. These options allow you to easily “take your business with you” and accept credit and debit cards rather than limiting yourself to cash-only transactions.

Weigh the pros and cons of working with a cash register with credit card terminal and decide whether or not it’s right for your business! Whatever you decide, keep in mind that utilizing a credit card terminal--any credit card terminal--is a way to double if not triple profits and provide customers with more than one way to pay.