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Compare credit card readers and other payment solutions.
From sole traders selling flowers at a market stall, to musicians peddling merch at a gig, to a cafe bringing POS to the table, it can be tricky to figure out which light contact payment machine is best for you. The type of POS system you want will depend heavily on your type of business. Almost all businesses will want a system that stores information and prices on products and services, plus the ability to find products via a search bar or scanning a barcode. You will also want the ability to add up a purchase amount, apply discounts or coupons, accept payment, and create cash flow payments and reports.
With that said, let’s compare POS systems so you can select the right one for your selling needs.
Useful Information
Find the right payment solution for your Business …
The POS system you choose will depend heavily on the type of business you have. For markets and events, freelancers and contract workers, and mobile services, you should consider a mobile POS system. This will allow you to use your smartphone or tablet to process payments and manage inventory, all while staying portable. Plus, most mobile systems work with a portable receipt printer or email receipts straight from the app to your clients.
The suggested POS system for mobile vendors, quick-service restaurants and cafes, and small retail stores is a tablet system. iPad and Android POS systems are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their convenience and the ability to use a tablet you may already own. Most tablets are compatible with important hardware like barcode scanners, cash drawers, and tablet stands.
If your business is a busy retailer, a full-service restaurant, a gym, or a grocery store, you’ll be after a terminal POS system, which is the type that we are used to seeing at counters. They’re both hardware- and software-based and are often sold as all-in-one solutions with a cash drawer, barcode scanner, and receipt printer. This kind of system is popular for restricting employee internet access as they can be configured to run only the POS software. With most, you can easily integrate portable WiFi devices, kitchen printers, patron table ordering, and online ordering.
Other POS solutions include online systems, which are ideal for low-volume businesses and boast minimal startup costs; self-service kiosk systems, ideal for ticket sales, patient check-ins, parking, and grocers; and multi-channel systems, great for physical stores that also sell online or e-commerce businesses looking to expand into a physical space. For more information on how you can support your business, check out Your Business Hub.
Features to consider
Portability (plug in take payments anywhere etc.)
Are you a café owner who’s hoping to allow customers to pay at their table? Or a contract worker who will have clients pay on site? It’s important to consider how portable you want your POS system to be when deciding on a type.
Rates (rates, contracts, fees)
When deciding on a POS system, don’t forget that most software packages will charge you rates and fees, while likely committing you to a contract. Some packages will send you credit card readers for free and some will require a monthly subscription fee.
Point of Sale Software (included/not..)
Ensure that you budget for POS software when setting up your system. Popular software includes Zeller and Square, both of which feature different levels of plans for the size of your business and have compatible hardware available for sale too.
Online capabilities (sell online on your website..)
If you’re planning to sell online through your own website, you will require a POS system that specialises in inventory and retaining customer information. This will allow you to keep track of stock numbers and shipping details, to manage discounts, to mark items on sale, and more.
Fraud Prevention/Security
POS fraud has become an increasing problem in the cashless era, so it’s important to consider how you will keep your business secure from it. A good place to start is by ensuring that your new system can keep a record of all transaction payments to fight customer disputes. Also, teach your staff how to recognise and prevent fraudulent payments.
Our Categories
Payment Solutions
Shop the wide range of Payment Solutions available at Officeworks.
POS Terminals – Credit Card Readers
Credit Card Readers allow your customers to pay quickly and easily in a cashless manner. Some readers connect wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, making them a great option for hospitality venues thanks to their portability.
Shop NowCash Drawers & Registers
Cash Drawers & Registers are well-suited to retail stores and hospitality industries thanks to their high security designs. They come with lockable drawers to keep cash secure, as well as note holders and coin trays for organisation purposes.
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Receipt Printers
A Receipt Printer is a great investment for any retailer or business. You can use it for customer receipts and to communicate orders to different stations, like kitchens in hospitality venues. Most printers are compact and lightweight, ensuring they don’t take up too much space in busy areas.
Shop NowBarcode Scanners
Barcode Scanners are popular for point-of-sale use thanks to their quick and easy functionality. You can use them to scan standard barcodes and QR codes, plus many are able to add vibration and audio after each scan, making them great for high traffic environments.
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iPad Stands & POS Accessories
You may want to consider accessories for your POS setup, including tablet stands and mounts. Most tablet stands feature rubber feet to keep them in place while they keep your tablet secure. You can also use wall mounts to conveniently attach your tablet to walls around the business, allowing you to grab it and go quickly.
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Square
Square is one of the most popular POS brands thanks to its easy to use, customisable design. It allows you to manage your entire business from one place, including selling in person, online, over the phone, on the go, and even through social media. You can use the app to schedule and manage team members, keep cards on file for faster checkouts for your regulars, offer eGift cards, and more. Plus, the sale app is completely free.
Shop NowZeller
Zeller is an Australian-based POS brand that aims to deliver smarter payment technology and integrate financial services that that enable businesses to accelerate their cash flow. With the Zeller Terminal, you receive an all-in-one card payment and EFTPOS solution that accepts every payment simply and securely. It boasts a low rate with no hidden fees or surprises.
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Helpful Tips
Payments Overview
With some POS systems, you can allow customers to pay in person, online, over the phone, on the go, and even over social media.
Payments on your Website
Set up an online store on your website to allow customers to purchase your products online. You can add pick up and delivery options or sell through Instagram or Facebook.
Payments over the Phone
Request a deposit, chase up an invoice, and take payments over the phone in a secure fashion. This is ideal for remote or delivery-based businesses or if you work on the go.
Invoices
You can also create and distribute invoices via your POS solution. A POS invoice is an abbreviated version of the regular invoice designed to record a quick sale and immediate payment.