Is a swipe-based smartphone processing system right for you?
The onset of the mobile readers started around 2009 with the idea that any businesses could now take credit cards, with no monthly fee and no equipment cost. It all sounded too good to be true, and for many businesses – it was. We are going to break down the pros and cons of Mobile POS systems and how they compare to a complete POS system like Shopkeep.
Lets start with a simple comparison of Both Styles
Cost and Fees
Most mobile point-of-sale (MPOS) systems like Square and are free to use with no monthly fees and the payment structure averages around 2.75% for swiped, dipped, and online transactions. Keyed in transactions are around 3.5% plus $0.15. for each transaction. This is very attractive for small businesses.
But if your company processes more than $120,000 per year, than a full service system might be the better value. Shopkeep has a stream-lined pricing structure at $49 per month and the rates can be customized for the type and volume of the business. Depending on the business, it may be lower than most MPOS systems.
Pricing for Bluetooth printers, iPad stands and scanners are comparable between the Shopkeep and most MPOS providers. Purchasing through third-party suppliers is also available.
Contracts
Most of the MPOS allow users to have a pay as you go contract with no early termination fee. In addition, there are no software contracts to worry about. This also holds true for Shopkeep, which is ideal with businesses just starting out or running on a small margin.
Difference in Features
Shopkeep offers mobile terminal in iPad IOS only, and Android/IOS is supported on major MPOS systems. A free reader comes with most MPOS systems and Shopkeep includes an iPad stand, cash drawer, receipt printer, and card swipe.
Most MPOS use an in-house payment processing, however Shopkeep can handle it in house or work with a processing company of your choice. MPOS have limited advanced features with basic inventory, tipping, split tender, and emailable or printed receipts. Shopkeep however has advanced register features — ability to add modifiers, split tenders, apply quick discounts (item and order level), process returns and refunds, and have customizable receipts.
But……this is where most MPOS systems end with features, and Shopkeep elevates above the crowd. Here is where the added value is: employee time-tracking, advanced reporting options, complete inventory management, including ability to inventory items as raw goods, and then create assemblies based on this information, and CRM management to capture and store customer information for special offers, promos and other re-marketing efforts. It Integrates with email marketing firm MailChimp. Both offer the new global standard EMV compliance readers, Apple Pay and swiped cards.
Although both types of POS have similar offerings, what may be the deciding factor is going to be the next section.
Customer Service
With most of the Mobile Point of Sale Systems the downfall appears to be in the customer service and support. This is reflected heavily in the online reviews and the BBB complaints of the major providers. The biggest complaint being the termination of account for no reason and the withholding of payment for up to 90 days.
The ability to verify the business entity and create a customer relationship is the downfall of most MPOS systems. Communication and support, primarily via email, lacks the on-demand personal experience we demand when there is a problem. The problem is magnified especially when withholding of payment is occurring. With Shopkeep, live customer support is included in the monthly fee and they boast a healthy review rating.
