Automotive Dealerships Need High-Performing Credit and Debit Card Processing
Auto dealerships have incredibly complex needs when it comes to credit card processing. Their busy sales environments demand reliable point-of-sale options typically reserved for large retailers, but they also require sophisticated backend payment systems that can manage complicated, high-average ticket transactions and financing plans. And when it comes to the competitive auto sales market, vendors need to look closely at systems that include marketing and customer retention tools. It can be daunting to find a system that offers all of these features without cutting too heavily into an auto dealer's already-slim profit margins, but it's possible.
To make it easier for you, we've put together the following list of the best merchant account providers for auto dealerships. These providers are able to offer a full range of point-of-sale hardware and business management solutions to make sales easier and keep cars moving off the lot. More importantly, though, they offer fair pricing and have been positively reviewed by merchants and third-party reviewers. In order to find the best provider for your dealership, be sure to contact multiple companies on this list to compare pricing and products.
How to Select the Best Car Dealership Credit Card Processor
When selecting a credit card processor for a Car Dealership business in the USA, we have identified some factors to consider.
Integration with Dealership Management Software
Many car dealerships use specific software to manage their inventory and sales, so it's important to select a credit card processor that can integrate seamlessly with this software. This can help reduce errors and save time by automatically recording transactions.
Acceptance of High Ticket Transactions
Car sales typically involve high ticket transactions, so it's important to select a credit card processor that can handle these types of transactions without any issues. Make sure the processor has no maximum transaction limits and can handle payments of at least $10,000 or more.
Competitive Credit Card Processing Fees
Credit card processing fees can vary greatly, so it's important to select a processor that offers competitive rates for the type of transactions processed by a car dealership. For example, some processors may charge higher fees for high ticket transactions, so it's important to compare fees and find the best fit for your business.
Security and Fraud Protection
Car dealerships handle sensitive customer information such as social security numbers, driver's license numbers, and credit card information. Therefore, it's essential to select a processor that provides robust security features such as tokenization, encryption, and fraud detection to safeguard your customers' data.
Excellent Customer Service and Support
In the event of any issues or concerns, it's important to have a credit card processor that provides responsive customer service and support. Look for a processor that offers 24/7 customer support and has a dedicated team for handling any concerns specific to the car dealership industry.
Compliance with Industry Regulations
The car dealership industry is subject to various regulations such as the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) and the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Used Car Rule. Make sure your credit card processor is compliant with these regulations to avoid any legal issues down the line.
By considering these factors, you can select a credit card processor that can help your Car Dealership business process transactions quickly, securely, and efficiently.
Top Picks For Merchant Services for Car Dealerships
#1 Helcim
Top Rated for Car Dealership Merchant Services
Helcim is a merchant account provider headquartered in Alberta, Canada, and Seattle, Washington. The company provides merchant services and credit card processing to both U.S. and Canadian businesses. Helcim offers traditional payment processing equipment as well as a feature suite called “Helcim Commerce,” which is intended to serve as an all-in-one business management solution for merchants across all of their sales channels.
Heading: Helcim – The Ideal Payment Processor for Car Dealerships
Helcim is an excellent choice for small business owners, including car dealerships, who need to accept credit card payments from their customers. They provide an array of features that are tailored to meet the unique needs of car dealerships. If you are a car dealership owner looking for a reliable payment processing solution, here are some reasons why Helcim should be at the top of your list.
Competitive Pricing
Helcim offers competitive processing rates and transparent pricing. With no hidden fees, you can rest assured that you won't be hit with unexpected charges. They also provide cost-saving solutions like a free terminal program for qualified merchants, which can help you save money on equipment costs.
Industry Specific Payment Technology
Helcim's payment processing technology is designed to handle the specific needs of car dealerships. They offer customizable payment forms that allow you to capture relevant customer data, such as the make and model of the car being purchased. This can streamline your sales process and help you make more informed business decisions.
Exceptional Customer Service
Helcim is known for its exceptional customer service. They provide 24/7 support via phone, email, and chat, ensuring that you always have access to the help you need. They also offer resources like online guides and tutorials to help you get the most out of their platform.
In conclusion, Helcim is an excellent choice for car dealerships that need a reliable and cost-effective payment processing solution. With transparent pricing, tailored features, and exceptional customer service, they offer everything you need to streamline your sales process and grow your business.
Host Merchant Services
Top Rated for Car Dealership Credit Card Processing
Host Merchant Services is a Newark, Delaware-based merchant account provider that is well-suited for most general business types, including car dealerships. The company's products and services include point-of-sale solutions (with specific packages for the restaurant, salon, professional service, and contractor sectors), online marketing tools, an online payment gateway and virtual terminal, mobile credit card processing, gift and loyalty programs, merchant cash advance, and offshore merchant accounts. Host Merchant Services specializes in e-commerce businesses and provides a free website and email address to new merchants who require them.
Host Merchant Services has received only positive feedback on public forums, with most reviewers singling out the company's customer service for praise. Host offers interchange-plus pricing with no early termination fees to all of its merchants, meaning that users will enjoy the most transparent pricing model and can cancel service without penalty. The BBB gives Host an “A+” rating, and CPO also gives the company an “A+.”
Why Host Merchant Services is a Top Choice for Car Dealership Payment Processing
As a car dealership, it's essential to have a reliable and secure payment processing system in place to handle the financial transactions that come with selling automobiles. Host Merchant Services is a top option for small businesses in the auto industry looking for credit card processing services.
HMS Offers Competitive Rates for Credit Card Processing
First and foremost, Host Merchant Services offers competitive rates for credit card processing, which can save car dealerships money in the long run. They also have transparent pricing with no hidden fees, which can be a relief for business owners who want to avoid surprises on their monthly bill.
Wide Range of Payment Options
In addition to cost savings, Host Merchant Services offers a wide range of payment options to customers, including credit and debit cards, e-checks, and mobile payments. This variety of payment options can make it easier for car dealerships to close sales and provide convenience to their customers.
State-Of-The-Art Security Measures
Host Merchant Services provides state-of-the-art security measures to protect both the car dealership and their customers' sensitive financial information. With Host Merchant Services, car dealerships can rest assured that their payment processing system is PCI compliant and secure.
Host Merchant Services is an excellent choice for small businesses in the auto industry looking for a secure, reliable, and cost-effective payment processing system. Their competitive rates, wide range of payment options, and top-notch security measures make them a top choice for car dealership payment processing.
For more information, visit the Host Merchant Services website or call (888) 727-4538.
PaymentCloud
Top Rated for Card Dealership Merchant Accounts
Based in Woodland Hills, California, PaymentCloud is a merchant account provider that specializes in serving standard to high risk business types. The company's products and services include point-of-sale solutions, mobile phone swipers, an online payment gateway and virtual terminal, EMV-compatible terminals, and merchant cash advances. Car dealerships can utilize the inventory management and sales tracking tools that are part of PaymentCloud's POS solutions as well as the convenience of facilitating online payments on a one-time or recurring basis through its virtual terminal. For those reasons, PaymentCloud is a great option for car dealerships.
PaymentCloud provides a dedicated account rep to all new merchants for the life of the account. The company has not received any negative complaints on consumer forums, and it customizes its pricing according to each merchant's business type and processing history. The BBB does not maintain a profile for PaymentCloud at this time, but CPO gives the company an “A.”
Accept Credit Card Payments Hassle-free with PaymentCloud for Car Dealerships
As a car dealership owner, you know the importance of accepting credit card payments from your customers. However, finding the right payment processing service can be a daunting task, especially when you want a reliable and secure solution that meets your unique business needs. This is where PaymentCloud comes in as an excellent option for small business owners who sell automobiles and need to accept credit card payments from their customers.
Experts in the Automotive Industry
One of the biggest advantages of PaymentCloud is its expertise in providing payment processing services to the automotive industry. They understand the specific needs of car dealerships and have designed their solutions accordingly. Whether you need a mobile payment option for auto shows or a terminal for in-store transactions, PaymentCloud has you covered. You can process all major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.
Competitive Pricing Structure
Another key advantage of PaymentCloud is its competitive pricing structure. With no hidden fees and transparent pricing, you'll know exactly what you're paying for. Plus, PaymentCloud offers flexible pricing plans tailored to your business size and transaction volume. This means you can choose the plan that works best for your business and avoid paying for services you don't need.
Highly Secure and Compliant Payment Processing Solutions
PaymentCloud's payment processing solutions are highly secure and compliant with industry standards. They utilize the latest security technology to protect your customers' sensitive payment information. This helps to build trust with your customers and gives them peace of mind when making purchases from your dealership.
PaymentCloud is an excellent payment processing option for car dealership owners who want a reliable, secure, and affordable solution to accept credit card payments. With their expertise in the automotive industry, competitive pricing, and robust security measures, PaymentCloud is a smart choice for small business owners looking to streamline their payment processing and improve the customer experience.
National Processing
Top Rated for Car Dealership Merchant Services
National Processing offers several small business processing options and can assist car dealerships with identifying the right POS system or virtual terminal for their needs. The company offers two pricing options: one an interchange-plus program or a “zero-fee” program, both of which offer competitively priced rates.
National Processing has a clean reputation with just one complaint filed in the last three years, which is not concerning in nature. In fact, the large number of options for payments that National Processing offers is well-suited to a dynamic business like a car dealership.
National Processing: The Best Credit Card Processing Solution for Car Dealerships
As a car dealership owner, accepting credit card payments is essential for your business success. That's why it's crucial to choose a reliable and trustworthy credit card processing company. National Processing is an excellent option for business owners who sell automobiles and need to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying vehicles. Here are some reasons why:
Tailored Solutions for Car Dealerships
National Processing offers customized payment processing solutions for car dealerships. They understand the unique challenges faced by car dealerships when it comes to payment processing and provide tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of the industry. With National Processing, you can be sure that your payment processing needs are being handled by experts who understand your business.
Fast and Secure Transactions
National Processing uses the latest technology to ensure fast and secure credit card transactions. With their payment processing solutions, you can accept credit card payments quickly and securely, giving your customers the convenience they expect while keeping their information safe.
Competitive Pricing: National Processing offers competitive pricing on their payment processing services. They have a transparent pricing model, with no hidden fees, so you know exactly what you're paying for. This can save your dealership money in the long run, allowing you to invest in other areas of your business.
Exceptional Customer Service
National Processing has a reputation for providing exceptional customer service. They offer 24/7 support, so you can get help whenever you need it. Their customer service team is knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction.
National Processing is the best credit card processing solution for car dealerships. With their tailored solutions, fast and secure transactions, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service, they can help your dealership grow and succeed.
For more information, see the National Processing website or call (385) 777-1235.
Additional Options
CDG Commerce
Headquartered in Chesapeake, Virginia, CDG Commerce is a merchant account provider that is able to provide in-person, mobile, and retail credit card processing to car dealerships. CDG Commerce's products and features include a free payment gateway, a virtual terminal, live sales tracking, fraud management, QuickBooks integration, recurring billing, and ACH processing.
CDG Commerce was founded in 1998 and has received mostly positive reviews from its merchants since then. The company offers month-to-month agreements with no early termination fees in most cases. Our review of CDG Commerce awards the company an “A+” rating, and the BBB also gives CDG an “A+.”
CDG Commerce: A Great Credit Card Processing Solution for Car Dealerships
Car dealerships are unique businesses that require payment processing solutions tailored to their specific needs. CDG Commerce offers an ideal solution for car dealerships looking to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying automobiles. Here are some reasons why CDG Commerce is an excellent option for business owners in the automobile industry.
Competitive Rates
CDG Commerce offers some of the most competitive rates in the payment processing industry. Car dealerships can save money on transaction fees and other charges associated with accepting credit card payments.
Secure Transactions
CDG Commerce's payment processing services are designed to ensure the security of all transactions. This means that car dealerships can rest assured that their customers' payment information is safe and secure.
User-Friendly Equipment
CDG Commerce provides user-friendly equipment that makes it easy for car dealerships to accept credit card payments. The equipment is designed to be easy to use and reliable, ensuring that transactions are processed quickly and efficiently.
Reliable Support
CDG Commerce provides reliable support to car dealerships, ensuring that any issues are resolved quickly and efficiently. The company's customer support team is available 24/7 to provide assistance whenever it is needed.
Integration with Existing Systems
CDG Commerce's payment processing services can easily integrate with existing systems used by car dealerships. This means that there is no need to invest in new software or hardware, saving time and money.
CDG Commerce offers a comprehensive and cost-effective payment processing solution for car dealerships. With competitive rates, secure transactions, user-friendly equipment, reliable support, and integration with existing systems, CDG Commerce is the best choice for business owners in the automobile industry who need to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying automobiles.
eMerchantBroker
eMerchantBroker.com is a Los Angeles, California-based company that offers high-risk e-commerce processing solutions, which is especially useful for used car dealerships and those that take on sales with a higher risk factor. The company’s products include ACH processing, an online payment gateway, merchant cash advance, and a chargeback management system to help merchants dispute and resolve chargeback claims. The company also offers customer retention tools, which can keep your customers coming back each time they need a new vehicle.
eMerchantBroker.com offers custom pricing for each merchant and maintains a low complaint rate relative to its size and merchant portfolio. Our review of eMerchantBroker gives the company an “A” rating overall and the BBB assigns the company a rating of “A+.”
Why eMerchantBroker is Ideal for Car Dealership Payment Processing
As a car dealership owner, one of the most important aspects of your business is being able to accept credit card payments from customers who are buying automobiles. This is where eMerchantBroker comes in as an excellent option for small business owners looking for a reliable and secure credit card processing solution.
Solutions Designed for Car Dealerships
eMerchantBroker offers tailored payment processing solutions that are specifically designed for car dealerships. This means that they understand the unique needs and requirements of the automobile industry and have developed payment processing solutions that cater to those needs.
Offers a Variety of Payment Processing Options
eMerchantBroker provides a wide range of payment processing options that allow car dealership owners to accept payments in a variety of ways. Whether it's in-store payments using traditional credit card terminals, mobile payments using smartphones and tablets, or online payments through a secure payment gateway, eMerchantBroker has got you covered.
Competitive Pricing and Transparent Fee Structures
eMerchantBroker offers competitive pricing and transparent fee structures, ensuring that car dealership owners don't have to worry about hidden fees or unexpected charges. They also offer excellent customer support and fraud prevention tools to help protect your business from chargebacks and fraudulent transactions.
eMerchantBroker is an excellent option for car dealership owners looking for a reliable and secure payment processing solution. With tailored payment processing solutions, a wide range of payment processing options, competitive pricing, and excellent customer support, eMerchantBroker is the perfect partner for your business's credit card processing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions: Car Dealerships Credit Card Processing
Merchant accounts for car dealerships are financial services that allow car dealers to accept credit card and electronic payments from their customers. These accounts facilitate secure and convenient payment processing for vehicle purchases, down payments, service fees, and other transactions related to car sales.
Car dealerships often deal with high-value transactions and unique payment requirements, making their payment processing needs distinct from regular retail businesses. Specific merchant accounts designed for car dealerships cater to these specific needs and provide solutions tailored to the automotive industry.
o find the best merchant account for your car dealership, consider the following steps:
a. **Research Automotive-Focused Processors:** Look for payment processors that specialize in serving automotive businesses and car dealerships. These providers will understand your industry's specific needs and challenges.
b. **Check for Integration with Dealer Management Systems (DMS):** If you use a DMS to manage your dealership's operations, ensure that the merchant account can integrate seamlessly with it. This will streamline your sales and payment processes.
c. **Compare Fees and Rates:** Assess the processing fees, transaction rates, and any other costs associated with each potential merchant account. Choose a provider with transparent and competitive pricing that aligns with your dealership's transaction volume.
d. **Consider Payment Options:** Ensure that the merchant account supports various payment options, including credit cards, debit cards, mobile payments, and online invoicing, to offer flexibility to your customers.
e. **Check for Customer Support:** Select a provider with responsive and helpful customer support to address any payment-related inquiries or issues promptly.
While car dealerships can use regular merchant accounts offered by mainstream providers, it might not be the most suitable option. Regular merchant accounts may not fully understand the unique needs of car dealerships and may not offer the best rates or tailored solutions for the automotive industry. Specialized merchant accounts for car dealerships are designed to cater to the specific requirements of automotive businesses.
Both large and smaller car dealerships should consider their individual needs and transaction volumes when choosing a merchant account. Larger dealerships may require higher transaction processing capabilities, while smaller ones may focus on lower processing fees. Select a provider that aligns with your dealership's size and specific requirements.
The time it takes to set up a merchant account can vary depending on the provider and your dealership's specific circumstances. Typically, the process can take a few days to a couple of weeks. Initiating the application process early can help ensure a smooth setup.
Yes, many merchant account providers offer mobile payment options, such as contactless payments and mobile wallet payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Accepting mobile payments can enhance the convenience for your customers during the car purchasing process.
Yes, specialized merchant accounts for car dealerships typically support both one-time transactions for outright vehicle purchases and recurring payments for financing transactions. This flexibility allows you to process payments for different types of car sales.
– Seek recommendations from other car dealership owners or industry professionals for their preferred merchant account providers.
– Look for providers that offer secure payment processing with advanced fraud prevention measures to protect your business and customers.
– Read customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the satisfaction levels of other car dealerships using the same provider.
– Review the contract terms carefully and understand any potential cancellation fees or contractual obligations.
Andrew
I wanted to take a moment to extend my sincere thanks for your insightful and comprehensive article on “Best Merchant Accounts for Car Dealerships”. As a professional in the automotive sales industry, your guide has been a key tool in helping me to understand and navigate this specialized field.
Your detailed breakdown of each merchant account, identifying their unique strengths, potential limitations, and distinguishing features, was expertly crafted. You’ve managed to make a complex topic much more accessible and digestible for readers like myself.
I especially appreciated your focus on important elements such as transaction fees, customer service, and security measures. Your insights into specific needs of car dealerships, such as processing large transactions, handling financing options, and integrating with dealership management systems, were particularly beneficial.
The depth of research, time, and expertise that went into creating this guide is abundantly clear. Your commitment to providing accurate, relevant, and actionable information has greatly simplified what is often a complex decision-making process, allowing professionals like me to make well-informed decisions.
Thank you once again for your invaluable contribution to this field. Your hard work, dedication, and expertise are deeply appreciated.
Adam Bockler
My dad had his own civil engineering business growing up. Billing and collecting from some customers was a nightmare. I can imagine how having a proper merchant account for an auto dealer would be a major aspect to their success. I also like how some of these merchants provide software and data solutions. In our information age, managing inventory, payments, and websites need to be done quickly and efficiently. Thanks for your helpful information.