Service Stations Susceptible To High Card Processing Rates
Of all the many business types that accept credit cards, gas stations are some of the most negatively impacted by credit card processing fees. This is because their profit margins aren't much larger than the interchange fees they pay for each transaction. Most petroleum franchisees will either inherit their pay-at-the-pump and in-store systems or have these systems chosen for them by their corporate supervisors, but independent fuel stations and convenience stores often have the freedom to choose the systems they prefer. For these merchants, the best approach is to find a reliable provider that offers easy installation, helpful customer support, and the lowest per-transaction markup that you can possibly secure.
To help you find the right processor, we've put together the following list of the top merchant account providers for gas stations and C-stores. These credit card processors are capable of integrating with existing POS equipment (including VeriFone Ruby and Gilbarco Passport) and can also enable merchants to accept fleet cards, EBT, prepaid cards, and other payment types. Most importantly, though, they offer some of the lowest processing rates available and have received generally positive feedback from merchants and third-party reviewers alike. In order to find the right fit for your petroleum location, be sure to contact multiple providers from this list and compare rate quotes.
How to Select the Best Gas Station Credit Card Processor
When selecting a credit card processor for a Gas Station business in the USA, there are some specific factors that should be considered.
Compatibility with Fuel Dispensers
The credit card processor should be compatible with the gas station's fuel dispensers to ensure that customers can easily make payments at the pump without any glitches or delays.
Acceptance of Fleet Cards
Many businesses use fleet cards to purchase fuel for their vehicles. The credit card processor should be able to accept major fleet cards such as Wright Express, Voyager, and FleetOne.
Security
Gas station businesses are frequent targets for credit card fraud due to the high volume of transactions. It is important to choose a processor that offers robust security features such as encryption and tokenization to protect sensitive customer information.
Credit Card Processing Transaction fees
Gas stations operate on thin margins, so it is essential to keep transaction fees as low as possible. Look for a processor that offers competitive rates and transparent pricing.
Integration with Accounting Software
The credit card processor should be able to integrate with the gas station's accounting software to streamline bookkeeping and reduce manual data entry.
Top-Rated Customer Support
The gas station business should look for a processor that offers reliable customer support, especially during peak periods when transaction volumes are high.
EMV Compliance
The processor should be compliant with the EMV (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa) chip card standard to ensure that the gas station is protected against liability for fraudulent transactions.
Mobile Payments
Mobile payments are becoming increasingly popular, and it is essential to choose a processor that can accept payments from mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet.
By considering these factors, gas station businesses can select the best credit card processor for their needs, one that can help them provide a seamless payment experience for their customers while also protecting their business from fraud and other security threats.
Top Picks for Gas Station Merchant Services
#1 Host Merchant Services
Top Rated for Gas Station Credit Card Processing
Host Merchant Services is a Newark, Delaware-based merchant account provider that is well-suited for most gas stations and C-stores. The company's products and services include point-of-sale solutions, online marketing tools, an online payment gateway and virtual terminal, mobile credit card processing, gift and loyalty programs, and merchant cash advance. This range of comprehensive features makes Host Merchant Services a great fit for gas stations.
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+.”
Host Merchant Services – A Top Choice for Gasoline Payment Processing
As a small business owner in the gasoline industry, it's crucial to have a reliable credit card processing service that can handle the unique needs of your business. That's where Host Merchant Services comes in. With their advanced payment processing solutions, Host Merchant Services is a top choice for gasoline payment processing.
Secure and Compliant Solutions for Gasoline Payment Processing
First and foremost, Host Merchant Services understands the complex regulations and compliance requirements associated with processing payments for gasoline sales. They offer secure payment solutions that meet industry standards and ensure that your business is fully compliant with all regulations. Additionally, their payment processing platform is designed to prevent fraud and protect against chargebacks, which is particularly important in the gasoline industry where high-value transactions are common.
Exceptional Customer Service
Another key benefit of choosing Host Merchant Services for gasoline payment processing is their commitment to providing exceptional customer service. They offer 24/7 support to their clients, so you can always get the help you need when you need it. This level of support is particularly important in the gasoline industry where downtime or delays in processing payments can have significant consequences for your business.
Competitive Pricing and Flexible Payment Processing
Host Merchant Services offers competitive pricing and flexible payment processing solutions that can be customized to meet the unique needs of your business. Whether you need a traditional payment processing terminal or a mobile payment solution for on-the-go transactions, Host Merchant Services has you covered.
If you're a small business owner in the gasoline industry looking for a reliable, secure, and cost-effective payment processing solution, Host Merchant Services is an excellent option to consider. With their industry expertise, exceptional customer service, and flexible payment solutions, they can help you streamline your payment processing and grow your business.
For more information, visit the Host Merchant Services website or call (888) 727-4538.
PaymentCloud
Top Rated for Gasoline Merchant Services
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. This comprehensive range of features allows merchants to charge for gas and keep inventory if they have a convenient store as part of their facility. For those reasons, PaymentCloud is a good option for gas stations.
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.”
Accepting Credit Card Payments for Gasoline Products Made Easy with PaymentCloud
As a small business owner selling gasoline products, accepting credit card payments can be a crucial part of your daily operations. However, finding a reliable and secure payment processing service can be a challenge. This is where PaymentCloud comes in as an excellent option for business owners in this industry.
Expert in High-Risk Industries
One of the primary benefits of using PaymentCloud for gasoline payment processing is its expertise in high-risk industries. The gasoline industry is considered high-risk due to its nature and regulatory requirements, and PaymentCloud has experience working with businesses in this industry. This ensures that your business can accept credit card payments from customers buying gasoline products without any issue.
Robust Security Features
Another benefit of PaymentCloud is its robust security features. PaymentCloud utilizes advanced security protocols to protect sensitive information, such as credit card data, from fraud and cyber threats. This level of security is especially important for gasoline merchants since the risk of fraudulent activities is high.
Competitive Pricing Structured for Small Businesses
PaymentCloud also offers competitive pricing, which is essential for small businesses. Its pricing model is transparent and affordable, with no hidden fees or long-term contracts. This means that you can easily budget for your gasoline payment processing fees without worrying about unexpected charges.
In conclusion, PaymentCloud is a great option for small business owners selling gasoline products and needing to accept credit card payments. Its experience in high-risk industries, robust security features, and competitive pricing make it a reliable and secure payment processing service for businesses in this industry.
For more information, visit the PaymentCloud website or call (888) 506-7859.
GDC Commerce
Highly Rated Gasoline Merchant Services Provider
Located in Chesapeake, Virginia, CDG Commerce is another ideal option for gas stations and C-stores. CDG has been privately owned since 1998 and offers a proprietary payment gateway (as well as a discount on Authorize.Net’s payment gateway), a virtual terminal, QuickBooks integration, mobile phone processing, sales reporting, security breach protection, and vulnerability scanning. CDG Commerce is ideal for locations that require a simple, low-cost, integrated method for accepting in-person payments.
CDG Commerce only charges a low, fixed fee per transaction and offers competitive contractual terms, including no annual fees, monthly minimums, or termination fees. CDG also offers next-day funding to most business types. CDG has earned an “A+” rating in our review as well as an “A+” rating with the BBB.
Why CDG Commerce is the Best Choice for Gasoline Payment Processing
As a business owner selling gasoline products, it is crucial to choose the right credit card processing service provider. CDG Commerce is an excellent option for gasoline merchants who need to accept credit card payments from their customers. Here are the reasons why CDG Commerce is the best choice for gasoline payment processing:
Secure Payment Processing
CDG Commerce uses the latest security measures to ensure safe and secure payment processing. They comply with PCI DSS standards and use encryption and tokenization to protect sensitive customer data, such as credit card numbers, from fraud and unauthorized access.
Customizable Solutions
CDG Commerce understands that gasoline merchants have unique payment processing needs. They offer customizable solutions tailored to the specific requirements of the gasoline industry. For example, they offer fleet card processing solutions that enable merchants to accept payments from fleet card programs, such as Fuelman, Wright Express, and Voyager.
Competitive Pricing
CDG Commerce offers competitive pricing for their payment processing services. They offer interchange-plus pricing, which means that merchants pay the actual cost of processing credit card transactions plus a small markup fee. This pricing model is transparent and cost-effective, enabling merchants to save money on payment processing fees.
Exceptional Customer Support
CDG Commerce provides exceptional customer support to their merchants. They offer 24/7 customer support through phone, email, and live chat. Their support team is knowledgeable and experienced in the gasoline industry, enabling them to provide timely and accurate assistance to merchants.
CDG Commerce is an excellent option for gasoline merchants who need to accept credit card payments from their customers. They offer secure payment processing, customizable solutions, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer support. By choosing CDG Commerce, gasoline merchants can streamline their payment processing and focus on growing their business.
For more information, see the CDG Commerce website or call (888) 393-1079.
Additional Options
National Processing
National Processing offers several small business processing options and can assist gas stations and C-stores 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. Our independent review finds National Processing to be a solid option for most gas staions and corner stores.
Why National Processing is the Ideal Choice for Gasoline Payment Processing
If you are a business owner selling gasoline products, you know how important it is to have a reliable and secure payment processing system. National Processing is the perfect solution for businesses in the gasoline industry that need to accept credit card payments from customers purchasing gasoline products. Here are a few reasons why National Processing is a great option for gasoline payment processing.
Robust Fraud Prevention Measures
National Processing understands the importance of protecting your business and customers from fraudulent transactions. With their advanced fraud prevention tools and technology, they offer a highly secure payment processing solution that helps prevent chargebacks and other fraudulent activities.
Customizable Payment Solutions
National Processing provides customized payment solutions tailored to the specific needs of your gasoline business. They offer a variety of payment processing options, including mobile payments, online payments, and in-store payments, all of which are designed to help streamline your payment processes.
Competitive Rates
National Processing offers competitive rates for gasoline payment processing. With no hidden fees, they provide transparent pricing, making it easy for you to understand and manage your payment processing expenses.
Exceptional Customer Support
National Processing has a team of experienced and knowledgeable professionals who are always available to help you with any questions or issues you may have. Their exceptional customer support ensures that you always have the support you need to keep your business running smoothly.
National Processing is a great choice for businesses in the gasoline industry that need a secure, reliable, and customizable payment processing solution. With their robust fraud prevention measures, customizable payment solutions, competitive rates, and exceptional customer support, National Processing is the ideal partner for gasoline payment processing.
For more information, see the National Processing website or call (385) 777-1235.
Shopify
Shopify is primarily known as an e-commerce platform for online merchants, but the company also offers a point-of-sale software solution for iPad and iPhone. The Shopify POS app can accept cards via a headphone jack card swiper, or a $129 EMV reader and includes features like inventory syncing with a web store, emailed receipts, automatic tax calculations, basic email marketing, and in-store refunds. These online payment options and the familiarity of the Shopify brand are great for corner stores.
The Shopify payment service can also be paired with a Shopify online store, which comes with numerous customization options. Shopify POS is a great fit for C-stores who would like to accept payments on-site using their phones. Shopify has an “A+” rating with the BBB, and we give it an “A+” rating as well.
Shopify: Excellent Credit Card Processing Solution for Gasoline Products
As a small business owner selling gasoline products, you need a reliable and secure payment processing solution that meets your unique needs. Shopify is a great option for accepting credit card payments from customers who are purchasing gasoline products. Here are some reasons why:
Compliance with Industry Standards
Shopify is PCI DSS compliant, which means that it adheres to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. This ensures that your customers' sensitive information, such as their credit card details, are secure during transactions.
Fast and Secure Transactions
Shopify provides a secure and fast payment gateway that ensures your customers can make purchases with ease. Its advanced fraud detection system also helps prevent fraudulent transactions, protecting both you and your customers.
Customizable Payment Options
Shopify allows you to offer multiple payment options, including credit card processing, PayPal, and more. This ensures that your customers have a variety of payment methods to choose from, making it easier for them to complete their purchase.
User-Friendly Platform
Shopify is easy to use and doesn't require extensive technical knowledge to set up. Its intuitive interface and helpful support team make it simple for business owners to manage their online store and accept payments.
Scalability
Shopify is scalable, which means it can grow with your business. As your business expands, you can upgrade your plan to include additional features and functionality, such as a point-of-sale system for in-store transactions.
Shopify offers a reliable, secure, and customizable payment processing solution for small business owners who sell gasoline products. With its compliance with industry standards, fast and secure transactions, customizable payment options, user-friendly platform, and scalability, it's a great option for any business owner looking to accept credit card payments.
For more information, visit the Shopify website or call (888) 746-7439.
Frequently Asked Questions: Gas Stations Credit Card Processing
A merchant account is a type of bank account that allows businesses to accept payments in multiple ways, typically debit or credit cards. A merchant account is established under an agreement between an acceptor and a merchant acquiring bank for the settlement of payment card transactions.
Gas stations, like many businesses, need merchant accounts to accept credit and debit card payments from customers. This is especially important as more and more people use cards instead of cash for everyday transactions. In fact, offering card payments can actually increase a gas station's sales and customer satisfaction.
There are several factors to consider when choosing a merchant account for a gas station. These include transaction fees, the types of payments accepted, customer service, security features, and compatibility with existing equipment. It's best to research multiple providers and compare their offerings to find the one that best suits your needs.
Some companies with positive reviews for their merchant account services for gas stations include Square, Clover, Fiserv, and TSYS Merchant Solutions. However, the best provider will depend on your specific needs and circumstances.
Transaction fees can significantly affect your bottom line. These are fees that the merchant account provider charges you each time a customer pays with a card. They can vary widely between providers and can be a flat fee per transaction, a percentage of each transaction, or a combination of both. It's important to understand these fees and factor them into your decision.
A good merchant account should have robust security features to protect your business and your customers' data. This includes encryption, fraud prevention, and compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).
Good customer service is essential when dealing with financial transactions. You want a merchant account provider that offers quick, reliable support in case of any issues or questions. This might include 24/7 phone support, online chat, and a comprehensive online help center.
Many merchant accounts can be integrated with existing point-of-sale (POS) systems and pump payment technology. However, this is not always the case, so it's important to check this with the provider before making a decision. You may need to update your equipment or use specific models to be compatible with the merchant account.
Yes, many modern merchant accounts allow for contactless payments and payments from digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Wallet. This is an increasingly important feature as more customers use these payment methods for their convenience and security.
Contract terms can vary by provider. Some merchant accounts require a long-term contract, while others operate on a month-to-month basis. Be sure to understand the terms and conditions, as well as any fees for early termination, before committing to a provider.
Olivia
I wanted to convey my heartfelt thanks for your comprehensive and informative article on the “Best Merchant Accounts for Gas Stations”. As an owner of a gas station, your detailed guide has been an invaluable resource in navigating the specifics of this niche market.
Your thoughtful analysis of each merchant account, outlining their strengths, potential downsides, and unique features, was excellently executed. Your clarity and precision in writing helped demystify this complex subject and made it easily understandable.
Your emphasis on vital factors such as transaction fees, security measures, customer service, and the specific requirements of gas stations was greatly appreciated. The insights you provided into integration with existing POS systems, as well as the handling of high-volume, low-cost transactions typical in our industry, were particularly beneficial.
It’s evident that substantial time, effort, and in-depth research went into this guide. Your commitment to delivering accurate, relevant, and useful information is commendable. You have simplified the daunting task of choosing a suitable merchant account for businesses like mine, helping us make informed decisions.
Thank you once again for your excellent contribution to this field. Your hard work and dedication are deeply appreciated.