The answer depends on how predictable your card sales are
A small business does not automatically need the cheapest-looking reader. A start-up, seasonal trader and established local shop may all be ‘small’ but need very different arrangements.
Begin with three facts: where customers pay, how consistent monthly card turnover is, and whether the business can tolerate a terminal or connection failure.
When pay as you go can make sense
Pay-as-you-go can suit a new business, side business, market trader or seasonal operation because the fixed commitment can be low. The trade-off is that a simple percentage may become expensive as turnover grows.
- Check hardware cost and replacement arrangements.
- Check the rate for every card type you commonly accept.
- Check when funds reach your bank and whether faster settlement costs extra.
- Check whether the app, phone or data connection creates a single point of failure.
When it is time to request tailored quotes
Once several recent months show reliable volume, use those statements to model a quoted merchant-services deal. There is no responsible universal turnover threshold: average transaction value, card mix and fixed fees move the crossover point.
Ask each provider to price the same transaction data. That turns a vague rate comparison into a business decision.
Small-business comparison scorecard
| Question | Good evidence | Warning sign |
|---|---|---|
| What will it cost? | A complete monthly model using your data | One attractive percentage |
| How long am I tied in? | Term and notice stated clearly | Verbal reassurance |
| What if it fails? | Written support and replacement process | No clear answer |
| Will it fit the workflow? | Demonstration of the actual setup | Feature list without context |
| Can the cost change? | Clear variation terms | Price-review wording you have not seen |
A simple buying process
Choose the least complex setup that meets today’s needs but does not block the next stage of growth.
1. Map the payment journey
Counter, table, customer site, online or a mixture.
2. Record real usage
Turnover, transaction count, average sale and common card types.
3. Compare complete offers
Apply each option to the same month and include fixed costs.
4. Read before agreeing
Check contract, terminal agreement, settlement and support in writing.
Get an independent sense check
Card Payment Connect can review how you take payments and help compare suitable options. The aim is a clearer decision, not pressure to switch.
Need the right setup—not another generic sales pitch?
Tell us how your business takes payments. We’ll help compare suitable machines, the complete costs and the contract terms that matter.
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About this guide
Published by Card Payment Connect, an independent card-payment consultancy for UK businesses. Reviewed by Matthew McCarthy, who has worked in UK merchant services for over a decade. Last reviewed 11 September 2026.