What are the costs to use a wireless credit card terminal? Can I keep my same merchant account? The first in a series to answer your questions about acquiring and using wireless terminals.

GETTING STARTED
Will my unit arrive ready to use? That depends on where you buy it. If you buy from the same company as your processor, yes. If you buy from someone else, maybe.

What’s needed to tie the unit to my merchant account?
1. The processor needs at a minimum the serial number, SIM card number and the mfr brand and model.
2. The processor creates a Terminal ID (TID) for the wireless account.
3. The processor contacts one of the two primary wireless networks – Apriva or Way Systems (for Way terminals only), whichever they prefer.
4. Apriva or Way creates wireless account for merchant per the processor account information. Depending not only on the processor, but where it processes through (for example First Data Omaha, First Data North) the two entities will exchange information to establish the proper programming. Due to the many variables, it’s not as simple as filling out a form. Additionally, merchants will not have adequate information about back end account details to establish the account without the help of their processor.

Will my processor charge a set up fee to create the wireless account? That’s an individual account decision. In most cases that we deal with, the answer is no.

Can 3D Merchant send me a terminal that’s ready to run? Yes, if you are an existing customer or if you obtain a new merchant account. Otherwise it’s a $95 fee. Your merchant processor will still need to set up the wireless merchant account before we can get the programming started. When they’re done, someone can either call us or send us a SOFTWARE DOWNLOAD datasheet via email or fax. We’ll get your terminal set up and test it before sending out.

PURCHASE AND OPERATING COST
Why do you charge a set up fee when my processor will do it for free? 3D Merchant sells equipment at discount prices. One benefit of buying wholesale is price. The downside is there is no margin to provide extra service. The processor is making a profit on your merchant services every month. For them it’s value added to keep you as a customer. As our customer it could be years before you need another unit.

What do I get for the $95 set up fee? We’ll charge your unit, download software, test and set it up so it’s ready to run transactions when it arrives. A signature is required for delivery for security reasons.

What are the fees for using a wireless terminal? All terminals have two elements for pricing at a minimum. One is a monthly fee, the other is a per item fee. There is a base fee set by the networks. Processors pay the networks for use of their system. They can pass through the cost or mark it up. There is normally a one time activation fee as well, usually around the same price as the monthly fee.
For example, a typical cost could be $25 set up, $25/mth wireless fee, $.20 per item fee. These fees are in addition to standard processing fees.

HARDWARE

PCI PED DSS certified wireless terminal features pin debit with cash back and entry fields for invoices. Full color screen and thermal printer with carrying case included.

This units works on GSM network. In simpler terms, anywhere AT&T works well this will also since AT&T works on GSM network. Also has encrypt and upload later feature in case you have a bad connection where you are.

FAQ:

Do I need to get a merchant account with you? No. However, if you have been in business at least two years and have a good credit history, why not have a discussion with us about your processing too? It couldn’t hurt and maybe we can reduce costs, provide better reporting ( you don’t know what you’re missing until you find out what’s available), improve compliance or help you in other ways.

Can I get paper too? You can buy paper from us or any retail outlet that sells it.

How do I activate my unit?
Contact your processor to find out which network they prefer, Way or Apriva. They’ll need the serial number and SIM card number to set up the unit on your merchant account.

Are there fees to use a wireless unit? Yes. They are usually $25 per month, sometimes $20 or $30. These fees are normally deducted via ACH on your merchant services account.

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