More often referred to simply as POS Systems, point of sale systems are electronic devices which store, manage, and maintain key information such as sales records, buying trends, inventory reports, and more. POS Systems also accept and process electronic payments from debit cards, credit cards, gift cards, and more. These valuable tools can be the lifeblood of businesses of all sizes when utilized properly. The great news is that POS systems can fit into just about any budget.
Here are just a few ways that small businesses can find the best point of sale hardware and/or software systems that they need without breaking the bank.
Why do I Need a Point of Sale System for my Small Business?
We often hear small business owners and managers express some iteration of the following question: “Do I really need a POS system/isn’t that overkill for my business?” The underlying concern generally boils down to whether the expense of a POS system is worth the investment. Before we get into the nitty-gritty of POS system pricing options, it is first important to understand what POS systems can do for your small business:
POS system hardware can include a chip reader/scanner, a user interface, a computer system, and much more. These systems are fully online for security and data backup purposes. Most current-generation POS systems are supported by the cloud.
POS system software might include apps for processing credit cards, other sales, track consumer behaviors, and much more. You can essentially think of these software components as a way to centralize all of your business’s basic functions into a singular unit. Those scraps of paper, notebooks, and accounting apps are now working in tandem.
You Can Use POS Hardware, Software, or Both!
After hearing about all of the capabilities of a complete POS system, the follow up is generally along the lines of “I don’t need all of that, can’t I just use some of it?” The answer is yes, you can absolutely choose the features of POS systems which will work best for your individual needs. For example, some businesses only require POS hardware and have their own tracking software. It is also possible to use POS software with your own hardware. And of course, there is the option to select certain apps.
We do recommend at least considering a fully-fledged POS system if only for the reason of simplicity. When businesses incorporate POS systems, they often become the central hub for tracking sales, processing payments, managing inventory, and so much more. A disconnected system has the potential to lead to complications down the road. Despite this, the option for piecemeal POS features is always available.
Renting a POS System is Extremely Affordable
So what does it actually cost to use a POS system? Most small businesses will opt for a rental agreement, particularly right out of the gate. This allows for lower start-up costs and in all likelihood, a lower operational cost for the first months/years of operation. While owning a POS system will lead to greater cost savings overall, there is no question that renting your system will be more affordable in the immediate future.
Renting a POS system isn’t just more affordable in many ways, but it also includes the fringe benefits of merchant account support. Your point of sale system lender will likely have a suite of security and processing benefits which come either bundled with the rental agreement or as available options. Be sure to speak with a reputable merchant account provider to discuss options.
Clover POS Handles Your Small Business Needs
Last but not least comes the choice of which POS system to choose for your small business. While there are many great choices on the market today, Clover POS systems offer cutting edge hardware, a suite of native and third-party apps, and the reliability for every day use that your business needs. By combining Clover POS Systems with True Merchant support, your small business will have access to:
24/7/365 support: above all else, we will be there for your business. Even the best systems on earth may run into problems. Gain peace of mind knowing that you are protected.
Easy-to-use, customizable interface: business owners and operators love how simple it is to adjust their POS system to their individual needs. Want to see the latest sales numbers? Done. Want access to the latest reports on customer behaviors? Everything you need is included.
A robust app market: the Clover app market has a full suite of third-party and native apps including Quickbooks, Xero, and much more!
A complete point of sale system package: Clover and True Merchant offer the hardware, software, security, and customer service that your small business needs.
Full-Service POS Solutions from True Merchant
True Merchant is proud to offer both point of sale (POS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions for businesses of all sizes. With our focus on merchant services and secure payment processing, POS and ERP systems are a natural extension of our other features such as CardSecure, EBT Payment Processing, and much more. With True Merchant, you can rest assured that you will be getting the best available price thanks to our complimentary rate reviews.
If you are considering a POS system for your business, please feel free to contact us by calling 1-888-770-2018 or through our online email form. A qualified merchant service professional will be waiting to walk you through the process!
