8 questions to consider when shopping for an EFTPOS machine

3-minute read

Looking for a fast, reliable EFTPOS machine? You’ll rely on it for secure cashless payments, so it’s important to find the best terminal for your needs. Here are eight questions to consider when you compare EFTPOS machines.

Key take-outs

  • Compare transaction fees, monthly plans and other costs
  • Consider ease of use, reliability and ongoing support
  • Decide if you want to integrate your EFTPOS with a point of sale system
  • Check how fast you will receive payments into your bank account.

1. What are the fees?

Are the fees per month or per transaction? If per transaction, have an idea of how many transactions you will do per month, so you can choose the right payment tier for your business. Our EFTPOS pricing plan tool makes it easy to figure this out. Read more on EFTPOS machine costs or download our merchant fees and charges guide (PDF 69KB).

2. How easy is it to use?

How long does it take to process and accept a customer payment? Are the screens easy to use and intuitive? If so, you’ll save time with every transaction and won’t waste time training staff how to use it.

3. What happens if I lose my internet connection?

You’ll want to be able to continue processing cashless payments even if you lose your wi-fi or your internet service provider has to carry out maintenance. With a Westpac EFTPOS machine, you’ll have the reassurance that your terminal has backup connectivity, including switching to 3G.

4. How long does the battery last?

If you run a mobile business, or a market or a café that takes payment from customers at the table, you'll need an EFTPOS machine with a good battery life. Our EFTPOS 1 merchant machine can last up to approximately 8 hours with the power save mode turned on.

5. Can I integrate it with a point of sale system?

For a time-saving payment solution, integrate your EFTPOS machine with your point of sale system, so that the amount to pay doesn’t have to be manually entered. While researching EFTPOS systems, you might like to consider our Presto Smart integrated payments solution.

6. How fast will I get access to my takings?

At the end of each trading day, you’ll 'settle' your terminal to access that day's takings. Depending on your payment services provider, you may receive daily business takings on the same day, or it might take a few days for the funds to go into your account. With Westpac Instant Settlement, you can receive your EFTPOS takings in an instant. Learn more about Westpac Instant Settlement1.

7. When can it be delivered?

Ideally you want your EFTPOS machine to be delivered straight away, so you can get up and running as soon as possible. Make sure you ask your provider whether they have EFTPOS terminals in stock and how long delivery will take.

8. Is there set-up and ongoing support?

Depending on which provider you choose, your EFTPOS terminal may come with instructions for you to follow yourself, or information about how to book a technician to manage the set up. If you choose one of our Presto Smart or EFTPOS 1 machines, we'll arrange for a technician to be on site with you to set up your terminal and test it. And whichever Westpac EFTPOS machine you choose, you’ll have the reassurance of 24/7 support.

 

 

Ask yourself these questions when comparing EFTPOS machines, and you’ll have the best chance of choosing the best payment solution for your business.
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Things you should know


The information in this article is general in nature and does not take your objectives, financial situation or needs into account. Consider its appropriateness to these factors; and we recommend you seek independent professional advice about your specific circumstances before making any decisions.

Applications for merchant services are subject to approval. Terms, conditions, fees and charges apply. Before making a decision, read the disclosure documents for your selected product or service, including the Product Disclosure Statement and T&Cs for Westpac EFTPOS machines; and consider if the product is right for you.
 

1.Westpac instant settlement functionality is not available between 9:30pm and 11:59pm (EFTPOS 1 and Presto Smart terminals) and between 9:30pm and 11:00pm (EFTPOS Connect terminals) - Sydney time. You can only settle a Westpac issued EFTPOS terminal once each day. Subject to system availability, settlement can take place 7 days a week. Settlement must be to a Westpac business transaction account. Instant Settlement functionality is not available on Corporate Online. Instant Settlement is only available for Mastercard, Visa and eftpos transactions (plus UnionPay if using EFTPOS Connect).