How to switch card machine provider
Switching is easier than most businesses expect. Here is the order to do things in, what to check in your contract, and how to keep taking payments throughout.
The short answer
Check your current agreement and notice period, send your latest statement to the new provider for a comparison, then switch once the new terminal is ready. Keep using your old machine until the new one is set up, and only cancel the old agreement when you are happy to.
Step by step
- Gather your latest statement and any agreement paperwork. The statement shows what you really pay: rates, fixed fees, rental and extras.
- Check your contract. Look for the end date, the notice period, and any exit or early termination fee.
- Get a comparison. Send the statement to PayZu and we show every charge side by side. If we can't beat it, we'll tell you straight.
- Ask about exit fees. If you are still in contract, let us look into it and find you a saving. In most cases, subject to approval, we can help with the exit fee.
- Approve and set up. Your new terminal arrives ready to use. Most businesses are up and running within 24 hours.
- Take your first payments on the new machine, then send your notice to the old provider and return their equipment if they ask for it.
What to check before you switch
- Contract end date and notice period: missing a notice window can roll the contract on.
- Exit fees: some contracts charge the remaining rental months, so find the figure before you decide.
- Two agreements: the terminal rental and the card processing can be separate contracts, each with its own notice period.
- Equipment: whether you need to send the old terminal back, and by when.
- Your till or EPOS: tell us what you use so we can confirm the new terminal works with it.
Will I stop taking payments while I switch?
It doesn't need to happen. Keep using your old machine until the new terminal is set up and you have taken a test payment. Then move over and cancel the old agreement.
What PayZu offers
- Debit card rates from 0.29%* (T&Cs apply)
- £0 upfront, zero hidden fees, zero PCI fees
- Next-day settlement as standard
*0.29% applies to UK consumer debit cards for businesses with monthly card takings above £40,000. Credit, business and international card rates, and rates for lower takings, are quoted individually. Subject to eligibility and status.
Common questions
What if I'm still in contract with my card machine provider?
Send us your statement and contract details and we'll look into it and find you a saving. In most cases, subject to approval, we can help with the exit fee. It is never guaranteed, so we'll confirm what applies to you before you decide.
Do I need to tell my current provider before I switch?
Your agreement sets out how and when to give notice. Check it first, and only cancel once your new terminal is working so there is no gap in taking payments.
Will my new card machine work with my till?
Our terminals work with many UK EPOS and till systems. Tell us what you use and we'll confirm before you commit.
Related
Send your statement — let us beat it
Tell us about your business and we'll come back with a line-by-line comparison. You can also email your statement to info@payzu.co.uk.
- Debit card rates from 0.29% (T&Cs apply)
- £0 upfront
- Zero hidden & PCI fees
- Next-day settlement