Accepting Credit Cards: Things to Consider

The number of people using cash or check declined in 2020. Although some usage has rebounded, the fact remains that credit and debit cards are the preferred payment method for many consumers. Consequently, requiring cash or check payments is neither customer- nor business-friendly.

Portable restroom operators can support credit transactions using credit card readers, mobile applications, and click-to-pay invoicing solutions. If you’re uncertain about accepting digital payments, consider that by 2025, PwC predicts cashless payment volumes will increase by more than 80%. Check out the tools available for frictionless business transactions and learn how to manage the associated fees.

Technology for Accepting Credit Card Payments

Many cloud-based business tools used by PROs support credit card processing, including your point-of-sale (POS) system and accounting program. These technologies may offer built-in payment integrations or support third-party services, like PayPal or Square. In addition, you can sign-up for processing and connect it to your existing tech tools or use it as a standalone payment solution.

Mobile card readers and swipe or chip terminals let you accept credit card payments in person. And both methods allow manual entry, known as card not present (CNP) transactions. Credit card processors also offer mobile apps so that you can accept payments from anywhere with an internet connection. You don’t need a swipe or chip reader. Likewise, integrated services enable customers to pay via an online invoice.

Drivers and Credit Card Payments

A mobile card processing solution means drivers can accept payments when dropping off, picking up, or servicing portable restrooms. It can improve your cash flow and is convenient for clients, saving them a phone call, stamp, or trip to your office. And it doesn’t require special hardware for your technicians, although mobile card readers are available. Instead, your driver can enter card data in a mobile app on their tablet or cell phone.

Conversely, you can send drivers an invoice with a quick response (QR) code. Your customer can scan the QR code with their mobile device and make a payment without disclosing card information to your driver. Any solution you use should integrate with your back-office software so that transactions are automatically recorded in your accounting and customer relationship management (CRM) programs.

Handling Credit Card Fees

Payment processing providers use subscription, flat-rate, or interchange plus models for fees. Typically, subscriptions offer better pricing for portable restroom businesses with higher transaction volumes. In each case, you’ll pay a fee for the convenience of accepting digital payments. The amount varies based on the fee model, card-issuing bank, and payment method. For example, CNP transactions may cost more than in-person payments.

You can pass credit card fees to your customer as a convenience fee to reduce your costs.

Another option is to offer customers a discount for paying with cash or check. Although it hurts to see your hard-earned money go to third-party fees, offering payment flexibility can help you score new clients from the competition.

Modernize Your Payment Methods

Fewer people use checks, and even fewer carry cash. Accepting credit cards can improve your bottom line by reducing past-due bills and increasing your customer base. Consider where and how your customers want to pay, then implement convenient processing technologies.

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