The plumbing industry has seen a rise in the use of credit card processing as a means of accepting payments from consumers and businesses (B2B payments). Digital payments overall has increased, in particular since COVID. While some plumbers may still prefer to receive cash or check payments, there are several reasons why credit card processing can benefit the plumbing industry and improve customer satisfaction.
Benefits of plumbers accepting credit cards
One of the primary benefits of credit card processing is that it allows for faster and more convenient payments. Customers can pay with a credit card either in person or online, without having to worry about having enough cash on hand or writing a check. This can save time for both the plumber and the customer, as there is no need to wait for checks to clear or for the customer to go to an ATM to withdraw cash. You can read more about the declining use of cash.
Credit card processing can also offer greater security and protection for both the plumber and the customer. When payments are made with a credit card, the transaction is processed through a secure network, which can help prevent fraud and unauthorized access to sensitive financial information. This can give customers peace of mind when making payments, knowing that their personal and financial information is being handled securely.
Another benefit of credit card processing is that it can help plumbers keep more accurate and organized records of their transactions. With traditional payment methods like cash or checks, it can be difficult to keep track of payments and receipts. Credit card processing systems offer reporting and tracking features that allow plumbers to easily monitor their payments and sales.
Accepting credit card payments can also help improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. Customers appreciate the convenience and flexibility of being able to pay with a credit cards and may be more likely to choose a plumber who offers this option over one who only accepts cash. Lastly, by offering credit card processing, plumbers can show that they are keeping up with modern technology and industry trends, which can help build trust and credibility with customers.
While there may be some costs associated with implementing credit card processing systems, such as transaction fees and equipment costs, these expenses can be outweighed by the benefits of faster payments, improved security, and greater customer satisfaction. For these reasons, the plumbing industry should consider adopting credit card processing as a means of accepting payments from customers.
The common ways that plumbers accept credit cards
There are several common ways that the plumbing industry is actually accepting credit cards. Payments are typically accepted by credit card machine, a virtual terminal, email invoicing, or a hosted payment page.
Credit Card Machines in the plumbing Industry
A wireless credit card machine is the most popular way to accept payments in the plumbing industry. They are completely mobile with no wires needed for connection. The benefit of a credit card machine is that they also accept debit cards.
A very popular device is the Ingenico Move 5000 which provides complete mobility to take payments wherever your customers are. You can also get a version that is wired for your sales counter if you prefer. Mobile devices are also used for mobile payment processing. This is the scenario where you use your iPhone or Android device to accept a payment.
Virtual terminals in the plumbing Industry
A virtual terminal is a web-based tool that allows a plumbing business owner to accept credit card payments using an internet browser on a computer, tablet, or mobile phone. Rather than being a hardware payment terminal or credit card machine, a virtual terminal is a web-based payment terminal.
A virtual terminal makes it easy to take credit card payments over the phone or in person. They are very commonly used in office buildings, service businesses, and many other businesses that do not have long lineups of customers or hundreds of transactions per day.
Email Invoicing in the plumbing Industry
Many plumbing companies use electronic invoicing. This is the process where you create an invoice through a guided online invoicing tool, like the one offered by TCM. The invoice is emailed to the customer which they can click a “pay now” button. Your customer will automatically get reminded if they have not paid.
Invoicing makes it easier to get paid by your customers. There are no more follow-up phone calls and emails. The TCM invoicing and quoting system does it for you. It makes it easier for your customers too.
Hosted payment page
The hosted payment page is one of the easiest ways to accept online credit card payments. A hosted payment page is a credit card payment page that is hosted by TCM, which allows your customers to pay for their products with any credit card on your website. Hosted payment pages are secure, easy to set up, and have a great customer experience.
In a hosted payment page, the consumer will click the “Buy Now” or “Checkout” button on your website. Your customer is redirected to a secure checkout page securely hosted by TCM with your brand. The customer then inputs their data and credit card information. After the payment, the customer is automatically redirected back to your website.
How to start accepting credit cards?
Accepting credit cards can make things a lot easier for both the plumber and the customer. It offers more payment options to customers, increases sales, streamlines payment processes, and builds customer loyalty. If you’re looking to start accepting credit cards, TCM is here to help.
Get the best credit card processing for plumbing companies
- Lowest cost processing in the industry
- Fund transfers in less than one day
- A full set of payment products to accept payment anytime, anywhere
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