What are the best payment processors to use for credit card payments at craft shows?
How to Take Credit Card Payments at Craft Shows
If you’re a crafter looking to sell your handmade goods at craft shows, one important aspect you need to consider is how you will accept payments from your customers. While cash is always a popular method of payment at craft shows, many customers now prefer using credit cards.
If you’re not sure how to take credit card payments at craft shows, don’t worry! There are several options available to you, and setting up your payment system is easier than you might think.
Option 1: Use a Mobile Card Reader
One of the easiest ways to accept credit card payments at craft shows is by using a mobile card reader. There are several popular options available, including Square, PayPal Here, and Shopify POS.
To use a mobile card reader, you’ll need to download the app associated with the reader you choose, and set up an account. Then, you simply plug the card reader into your smartphone or tablet, and you’re ready to start accepting credit card payments.
Mobile card readers typically charge a processing fee per transaction, so be sure to factor this into your pricing when pricing your products.
Option 2: Use a Payment Processing Service
Another option for accepting credit card payments at craft shows is to use a payment processing service. Companies like PayPal, Stripe, and Authorize.net offer easy-to-use payment processing services that allow you to accept credit card payments both online and in person.
To use a payment processing service, you’ll need to set up an account and link it to your bank account. Some payment processing services also require a monthly subscription fee or charge a fee per transaction, so be sure to read the fine print before signing up.
Option 3: Use a QR Code
If you don’t want to invest in a mobile card reader or payment processing service, you can also accept credit card payments at craft shows by using a QR code. A QR code is a type of barcode that can be scanned by a smartphone camera.
To use a QR code, you’ll need to create a unique code for each of your products, and display the codes on signage at your booth. Customers can then scan the code with their smartphone camera, which will take them to a payment processing page where they can enter their credit card information.
While QR codes offer a simple and cost-effective way to accept credit card payments, keep in mind that not all customers may be familiar with how to use them.
Conclusion
Regardless of which option you choose for accepting credit card payments at craft shows, be sure to display signage at your booth indicating that you accept credit cards. This will help attract customers and increase your sales.
Remember to also factor in any processing fees when pricing your products, and be prepared for any potential glitches or connectivity issues that may arise when using mobile card readers or payment processing services.
By offering customers the convenience of paying with a credit card, you’ll be able to increase your sales and grow your business at craft shows.
Accepting credit card payments at craft shows is essential for many vendors and can be a great way to increase sales. To make sure you can accept credit cards on-site, you must take the proper steps prior to the event.
Firstly, you’ll need to obtain a merchant account in order to accept credit card payments. This account will enable buyers to be able to use their credit cards to make purchases, and the money will be transferred into your account. After you’ve received your merchant account, you’ll need to purchase a card reader that is compatible with your particular merchant account. These card readers are generally available online or from your bank or credit card processor.
Once you have the necessary hardware, you must decide on the best pricing strategy for how you will charge customers when they use their credit cards. Some vendors choose to charge an extra service fee on top of the cost of the item for the convenience of using a credit card, while others prefer to absorb the additional costs associated with accepting credit cards.
Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that you set up your vendor space to accept credit cards. This could include having a secure, waist-high platform for card payment along with registering your account with mobile digital wallets such as Apple Pay or Paypal. Also, keep in mind to only accept payments in person and not through your mobile device. Be sure to check with the event promoter for additional guidelines which may be in place for credit card payments.
By taking the necessary steps in advance of the craft show, you can make sure that all your potential customers have access to your products and services – no matter if they are paying with cash or credit.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute professional or financial advice. Consult a qualified professional with any specific questions or concerns.