STACK #244 February 2025

TECH FEATURE

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portable hotspots, and Square and SumUp devices collect a low 1.6% fee per transaction. However, the SumUp POS register will attract a 1.4% transaction fee. Are they easy to set up? Preparing a card reader is the least complicated part of running your sale. They are designed for fast and simple set-up and you can be ready to collect payment in as little as five minutes.

Square 2nd Generation

EFTPOS Tap-and Go Card Reader

In Australia today, it's estimated that under 20% of sales are paid for with cash. So for university students looking to earn some extra money while studying by running a side hustle, a garage sale, or a market stall to offload unwanted belongings, a simple payment solution is essential. Portable card readers provide a convenient and highly affordable way to ensure you don't lose any potential sales by having a “cash only” policy. Words James O'Connor How portable card readers can supercharge your sales CASHLESS CONVENIENCE

Download the respective app, create an account, link your bank account to it, and you're good to go. Square devices can even accept Afterpay out of the box without additional set-up required. What are the key features to look out for? What you need from a portable payment device will depend on how you'll be using it. All these devices can be used for card payments, so consider any extra features you might benefit from.

Square Terminal All-In-One EFTPOS Payment Machine

What are portable payment devices? From compact tap-and-go readers to full featured registers, portable payment devices enable casual sellers and businesses to process card transactions quickly and efficiently, as these devices interface with smartphones via dedicated apps for added convenience. The two main players in this space are Square and global company SumUp, offering versatile options that support various payment methods including contactless NFC payments, chip card taps, and PINs, reducing payment barriers and ensuring seamless transactions. How do they work? Square and SumUp's devices integrate with your bank account – link the device to your nominated account and the payments you collect from customers will be available generally within 1–3 business days.

SumUp Air

If you're looking to sell just a few specific items and move sales along quickly, Square's Tap-and-Go Card Reader might be a perfect fit. If you’re selling a lot of items, using it for business purposes, or have more point of sale staff, a portable device with a screen, such as the SumUp Go reader, may be a better choice. Consider whether you need portability, if offering receipts is required, and how important it is that your buyers can see itemised lists upon sale.

Sales can be entered into either your phone or a dedicated terminal, depending on the type of payment device you're using. Customers can then tap or insert their cards to complete the transaction. Not only is the process extremely straightforward, but also gives a market sale a sense of professionalism and care, and is less awkward than asking for a direct bank transfer. Most portable payment devices require an internet connection and support Wi-Fi and

32 FEBRUARY 2025

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