If you’re looking to start a pop-up shop, then you’ll need to know the basics, particularly when it comes to finances.
The most flexible way to take payments is through the use of a mobile point-of-sale app that’s paired with a Bluetooth card reader connected to your smartphone or tablet.
Flexible payments are essential for pop-up shops, so with that in mind, here’s everything you need to know about taking payments anywhere.
Choose your Payment Provider
First and foremost, you’ll need to choose the payment provider. Several mobile card readers will cater specifically to temporary and pop-up retailers.
A portable credit card processing by North, for example, is a good choice to achieve effective, on-the-go payments. It’s good to weigh up the pros and cons of payment providers, understand what features to look for and any red flags to avoid through user reviews, etc.
Required Hardware
To help process transactions securely, you’ll need a few essentials:
Smartphone or tablet
From Android to iOS devices, you’ll need a reliable cellular or Wi-Fi connection.
Card reader
Pocket-sized devices that link to your phone via Bluetooth are needed to read EMV chip cards like Google Pay, Apple Pay, and contactless cards.
Receipt printer
Many modern customers will prefer digital receipts, but you can also get a portable Bluetooth printer if you need physical copies.
Cashbox
Despite the digital age we live in, having a small lockbox is still necessary for cash transactions, as many people still use cash.
Key Features to Look For
There are some key features to look for when it comes to payment providers, and these will help you figure out whether or not it’s the right selection.
Offline mode
The ability to queue payments and process these automatically once your devices regain an internet connection is key. The last thing you want is for sales not to go through when working in places where the signal is limited.
Inventory sync
Real-time updates are useful as a feature because it gives you a realistic view of what stock is remaining. That way, it can be removed from your digital storefront easily.
Transparent fees
Watch out for the monthly software fees versus flat-rate per-transaction fees.
Setting Up for Success
To help set up for success, there are a number of things you can do to make it more effective. Firstly, make sure to test your tech. Always test your card reader, your payment processing at the venue and your internet connection.
Pop-ups can be long and arduous so it’s good to bring along portable power banks to help keep your phone and card reader fully charged. Lastly, but sure to clear display signs that show the payment methods you accept, so that customers know how to pay.
Starting a pop-up shop requires the right tech to take payments. From the payment provider to the other hardware, having everything in place before you launch is essential. The better the experience for payments, the likelihood that customers will come back again and again.
