- The UK’s reference point for card payments comparisons
- Bespoke offers direct from the UK’s best payment providers
- Get the facts that suit your business needs in one phone call
- Avoid incessant sales calls and spam emails
- Keep your card processing costs to a minimum
- Free independent audit of your current provider’s charges
Compare 90% of the UK’s Leading Providers in One Phone Call
Start Saving on Payment Processing Fees in Just Three Steps: How to Take Payments
1. Complete Our Quick Form
Provide us with some basic information about your business. It only takes a few minutes, and it helps us understand your specific needs for accepting payments.
2. Receive Tailored Quotes
Our team will analyse your requirements and send you personalised quotes from leading UK merchant account providers. These quotes are designed to offer you the best rates on credit card payments, whether online or in-person, by comparing different payment options.
3. Choose and Save
Review the customised offers and select the one that fits your business best. Begin accepting payments seamlessly while enjoying reduced transaction fees, credit card processing fees and enhanced services.
We’re Rated Excellent on
I have used card machines for over 10 years…
Mrs Lynn
I have used card machines for over 10 years. I like the new ones ebst of all. The transaction is taking a little ;onger but t rint is nt as long as on other ones. On most ruuning days for the train we take at leat £1000 on the machine which is used for rrailway tickets and the shop. It freqlently Takes longer when the train is in the station as a metal item in front of it
Date of experience: 04 August 2024
Didn't want to use a comparison website…
Allan S
Didn’t want to use a comparison website for card payments but when my existing provider decided to elevate my fees by 70% I am so glad I used this service. They were helpful, non-aggressive and the end result is saving me a lot of money, highly recommend!!
Date of experience: 19 July 2024
Excellent, jargon-lite advice!
Dot at Jessie Mac's
I had already done some research before contacting IMS about card processing providers and thought I knew what might be the best option. Roger was great, talked me through some options without too much jargon and took on board my comments and concerns. He then suggested a company that hadn’t even been on my radar but which offered a better deal than I’d seen and even got me a discount on the card reader. Excellent service, thank you!
Date of experience: 04 October 2020
Honest and Realiable
Sayed Rahman
Looking to change our merchant services, Geoff contacted me. From day one he has been spot on, friendly and very knowledgeable. Got some good reputable companies to call and give quotes. He was genuinely interested in the best for my business and not just getting the lowest rates. Geoff gave some excellent honest advice, he obviously knows this industry and its players very well. Would highly recommend.
Date of experience: 21 December 2017
Great service from Darren
David
Over a quick phone call with Darren, we were recommended two companies based on our requirements. We decided to go with one of the two options, and we are now saving money on our ecom gateway and telephone payments. We are also pleased with the service and communication from our new payment processor.
Date of experience: 22 March 2024
Great company to deal with
Iain Race
Great company to deal with, Darren was very helpful and listened to our every need and then put us in touch with the right people who we then went with. Would definitely recommend this company.
Date of experience: 02 August 2024
Really responsive and helpful company
Anthony
Really responsive and helpful company. Emma Bradley great at getting us all set up. Rates are acceptible and better than some others.We get paid quickly and the online portals work well. One of our two very standard terminals had fairly poor wifi connectivity and we tried everything so we immediately got send a new terminal which works well and the other was collected at same time. No complaints so far and been using 3 months at high volume
Date of experience: 02 April 2023
Had been putting off getting involved…
Steve
Had been putting off getting involved with credit & debit card payments for years. Contacted these guys, who explained successfully how simple & cost effective it was. No PDQ machines, just an on line portal. Excellent people. This is the ideal way to process card payments if they’re infrequent & over the phone. Competitive rates too.
Date of experience: 19 October 2018
Great experience
Simply Sound and Vision
Great experience with IMS. Very competitive rates, seamless transfer. We had a specific issue that we needed a card service provider that continued to charge debit cards at a flat rate rather than a percentage. (we tend to have larger transaction sizes, so this was important to us) IMS found such a merchant for us. Would highly recommend their services.
Date of experience: 02 March 2019
Understanding Payment Processing Fees
Payment processing fees are charges levied by payment processors and credit card networks for facilitating transactions between merchant account providers, merchants and their customers. These fees can vary depending on the type of payment method used, e.g. credit card processing fees, the merchant account provider, and the merchant’s agreement with the processor. Understanding these fees is crucial for any business looking to optimize their payment processing setup and reduce costs.
What are Credit Card Processing Fees?
Credit card transaction fees are charges imposed by credit card networks, such as Visa and Mastercard, for processing credit card transactions. These fees typically consist of a percentage of the transaction amount, plus a fixed fee per transaction. For instance, credit card processing fees can range from 1.5% to 3.5% of the transaction amount, depending on the type of credit card used and the payment processor.
By understanding these fees, businesses can better manage their expenses and choose the most cost-effective credit card processing solutions.
Types of Payment Processing Fees
There are several types of payment processing fees that merchants may encounter, including:
- Transaction Fees: These are fees charged per transaction, typically a percentage of the transaction amount, plus a fixed fee.
- Monthly Fees: These are fees charged on a monthly basis, regardless of the number of transactions processed.
- Card Processing Fees: These are fees charged for processing credit and debit card transactions.
- Payment Gateway Fees: These are fees charged for using a payment gateway to process online payments.
- Interchange Fees: These are interchange fees charged by credit card networks for processing credit card transactions.
- Assessment Fees: These are fees charged by credit card networks for assessing the risk of a transaction.
By being aware of these different fees, businesses can make informed decisions about their payment processing setup and potentially save on costs.
Assessing Your Current Payment Processing Setup
Evaluating your current payment processing setup can help you identify areas where you can save money and improve your bottom line. Here are some steps to get started:
Evaluating Your Merchant Account Fees
Your merchant account fees can significantly impact your business’s profitability. Here are some steps you can take to evaluate your merchant account fees:
- Review Your Merchant Account Agreement: Take a close look at your merchant account agreement to understand the fees you are being charged.
- Compare Fees: Compare the fees charged by your current provider with those of other payment processors for payment services.
- Negotiate with Your Payment Processor: If you find that your fees are higher than those of other payment processors, negotiate with your payment processor to see if they can offer you a better deal.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that you are not overpaying for your merchant account fees and potentially save money.
Understanding Your Payment Processing Rates
Your payment processing rates can also have a significant impact on your business’s profitability. Here are some steps you can take to understand your payment processing rates:
-
Review Your Payment Processing Statement: Take a close look at your payment processing statement to understand the rates you are being charged.
-
Compare Rates: Compare the rates charged by your current payment processor with those of other payment processors.
-
Negotiate with Your Payment Processor: If you find that your rates are higher than those of other payment processors, negotiate with your payment processor to see if they can offer you a better deal.
By understanding your payment processing fees and rates, you can make informed decisions about your payment processing setup and save money on your transactions.
Why Partner with Us?
Since 2012, we’ve assisted thousands of UK businesses in finding the most cost-effective payment solutions. Our goal is to make it easy for you to accept credit card payments and payments from debit cards while minimising costs.
Leverage Our Industry Influence
Our longstanding relationships with over 90% of UK payment providers and card processing companies mean we can negotiate better rates on your behalf. By consolidating the buying power of numerous businesses, we secure lower transaction fees and more favourable terms than you might obtain independently.
Expert Guidance Tailored to You
Our team of payment specialists offers impartial advice to help you navigate the complexities of payment processing. We’ll ensure you’re aware of all costs upfront, including those associated with the credit card network, avoiding hidden fees and unfavourable contract conditions.
How Everyone Benefits
Your Business: Gain access to the best deals, reducing costs when you accept credit or debit cards and understand the associated credit card fees.
Our Team: We receive a modest fee from the payment providers for introducing new clients.
Payment Providers: They welcome new customers looking to process card transactions efficiently.
Ongoing Support: We’re here to assist you throughout your agreement, ensuring smooth credit card processing.
We’re rated excellent on
Comprehensive Credit Card Processing Solutions for All Channels
Whether your customers prefer to pay online, in person, or over the phone, we offer solutions that make accepting payments into your merchant account simple and affordable.
In-Person Payments
Equip your business with the latest card readers to facilitate a quick and secure debit or credit card transaction.
- Versatile Devices: Choose from countertop, portable, or mobile card readers to suit your setup.
- Contactless Technology: Accept contactless payments including Apple Pay and Google Pay for faster checkouts.
- Affordable Options: Flexible contracts starting from £10 + VAT per month, with no long-term commitments.
Online Credit Card Payments
Expand your reach by offering customers a secure way to pay through accepting credit card payments online credit card processing and payment links to your large company or small business.
- User-Friendly Integration: Seamlessly add our payment gateway to your website for online payment processing.
- Secure Transactions: Protect customer data with advanced fraud protection and security measures.
- Flexible Features: Offer recurring payments, pay by link, and other convenient options.
Phone Payments
Provide a convenient payment method for customers who prefer to pay over the phone.
- Virtual Terminals: Process payments securely without the need for a physical card machine.
- Easy Access: Use any mobile device, tablet, or computer to manage transactions.
- Compliance Assured: Stay compliant with PCI standards and utilise Address Verification Systems (AVS).
Frequently Asked Questions about Card Processing Fees
Can I trust the rates you provide?
Absolutely. We work directly with top UK payment providers to secure the most competitive rates for accepting credit and debit card payments. Our goal is to help you save money while enhancing your payment capabilities.
Why shouldn't I just go directly to a payment provider?
While you can approach credit card processors on your own, our consolidated buying power often results in better deals. We also help you avoid hidden fees, overly high monthly fee and transaction fee costs and unfavourable contract terms that you might not spot on your own.
Will my contact information be shared or sold?
No. We respect your privacy. Your details are used solely to provide you with the best quotes and are not shared with third parties without your consent.
How long does it take to set up a new payment system?
The setup time varies depending on the solution you choose. Typically, approval and onboarding take a few days. We strive to make the process as quick and smooth as possible so you can start accepting payments without delay.
Do you offer support after I've chosen a provider?
Yes, we’re here to support you even after you’ve selected a provider. If you encounter any setup problems with your merchant account, or issues with your card payment processing, we can liaise with the provider on your behalf to help resolve them.
Do you cater to high-risk businesses?
Yes, we have partnerships with providers and credit card processors who specialise in high-risk sectors. If your business operates in industries like crypto currencies, online gaming, or forex trading, we can help you find suitable solutions for processing transactions.
Ready to Enhance Your Payment Options?
Accepting Payments
Accepting payments is crucial for meeting customer expectations and staying competitive. We make it easy and affordable by minimizing the payment gateway fee, transaction fee, monthly fee and other costs.
-
Increase Sales: By offering more payment options, you attract more customers.
-
Improve Cash Flow: Quick deposits from card transactions into your bank account.
-
Enhance Security: Reduce reliance on cash and minimise risks with robust fraud protection.
Get Started Today
Fill out our quick form to receive personalised quotes. Take the first step towards more efficient and cost-effective payment processing for your business.
Transform the way you accept payments. Simplify your processes, reduce costs, and focus on what you do best—running your business.
Understanding Transaction Fees
One of the most important aspects of accepting payments as well as setup fees is understanding how the transaction fee affect your large or small business.
These fees are typically a small percentage of each card transaction, credit or debit card transactions, plus a fixed amount. They cover the costs of processing payments, interaction fee costs and ensure that funds are securely transferred to your merchant account via the credit card company.
- Transparent Pricing: We provide clear information on all fees associated with processing credit and debit card payments. There are no hidden fees or surprises.
- Competitive Rates: Our transaction fees are among the most competitive in the UK, helping you save money with every sale.
- No Extra Costs: Avoid unexpected charges that can eat into your profits. We believe in honesty and transparency.
Monthly Fees Explained
In addition to transaction fees, some providers charge a monthly fee and possibly a minimum monthly service charge for their services or a PCI compliance fee. Understanding this monthly cost is crucial for effective budgeting for any large or small business.
-
Service Charges: Monthly fees may cover customer support, software updates, and maintenance of your card readers or payment gateways.
-
Flexible Plans: Choose a plan that suits your business size and transaction volume. For small businesses, we offer packages with low or no fees.
-
No Long Contracts: We don’t lock you into lengthy agreements. Enjoy the freedom to adjust your plan as your business evolves.
Enhancing Customer Experience
Modern Payment Methods
Today’s customers expect convenience and flexibility when making purchases. By offering various payment options, you can significantly improve the customer experience as well as your annual card turnover.
- Contactless: Speed up transactions with in person payments using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or NFC-enabled credit and debit cards straight from the customer’s bank account.
- Mobile Payments: Accept payments via mobile devices, catering to tech-savvy consumers who prefer using their smartphones.
- Online Payments: Provide a seamless checkout process on your website with our secure payment gateway.
Security and Fraud Protection Measures
Protecting your business and your customers is our top priority. We offer advanced security features to safeguard every card payment.
-
PCI Compliance: Our systems comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, ensuring all transactions are secure.
-
Fraud Detection Tools: Utilize state-of-the-art technology to detect and prevent fraudulent activities.
-
Secure Encryption: All credit card information is encrypted during processing to protect sensitive data.
Tailored Solutions for Small Businesses
We understand the unique challenges faced by small businesses in the UK. That’s why we offer solutions designed to meet your specific needs.
-
Scalable Services: Our payment solutions grow with your business, allowing you to add new features as needed.
-
Affordable Options: Benefit from competitive and minimal card processing fees.
-
Personalised Support: Receive dedicated assistance from our team to help you set up and manage your payment systems.
How Accepting Payments Boosts Customer Satisfaction
Payment Options
Offering credit or debit card payment options can enhance customer loyalty and increase sales for any enterprise or small business.
- Convenience: Customers appreciate the ability to pay using their preferred method, whether it’s a credit card, debit card, or contactless payment.
- Trust: Accepting customer payments, digital payments and credit card transactions from major providers like Visa and Mastercard builds credibility.
- Speed: Faster transactions mean shorter queues and a better overall shopping experience.
Mobile Payments and Modern Solutions
Embrace the future with our innovative in person mobile payment options.
-
Mobile Card Readers: Turn your smartphone or tablet into a card machine and accept payments anywhere.
-
Face-to-Face Payments on the Go: Ideal for businesses on the move, such as market stalls or home services.
-
Easy Integration: Our mobile solutions integrate seamlessly with your existing systems.
Choosing the Right Card Payment Provider
Selecting a provider is a crucial decision that can impact a large company or small businesses success.
-
Compare Fees: Look beyond the headline rates, transaction fee and monthly fee costs.
-
Assess Services: Ensure the provider offers the payment methods your customers prefer.
-
Customer Support: Reliable support can save you time and money in the long run.
Integration with Existing Systems
Our solutions are designed to work with your current setup.
-
E-commerce Platforms: Compatible with major platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento to take an online payment.
-
POS Systems: Integrate our card machines with your point-of-sale system for seamless operations.
-
Accounting Software: Sync transactions with accounting tools like QuickBooks or Xero.
Supporting Various Payment Types
Cater to all your customers’ preferences.
-
Accept Major Cards: Including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and more.
-
Digital Wallets: Support for Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other mobile wallets.
-
Recurring Payments: Set up automatic billing for subscriptions or memberships.
Security Enhancements with Advanced Technology
Stay ahead of potential threats with our robust security measures and avoid chargeback fees.
-
EMV Chip and PIN: Utilize card machines that support chip and PIN for enhanced security.
-
Encryption and Tokenization: Protect sensitive data throughout the transaction process.
-
Regular Updates: We continuously update our systems to combat new security risks.
Merchant Accounts
The Role of Merchant Accounts
Understanding how a merchant account benefits your business.
-
What It Is: A merchant account is a special type of business bank account that allows you to accept card payments.
-
How It Works: Processes payments and transfers funds from the customer’s bank to yours.
-
Why You Need It: Essential for taking credit card payments efficiently.
No Hidden Costs or Long-Term Contracts
We prioritize transparency in all our dealings.
-
Clear Agreements: All fees and terms are outlined upfront.
-
Flexible Terms: Choose contract lengths that suit you, with options to adjust as needed.
-
No Surprise Charges: Avoid unexpected costs that can disrupt your budgeting.
Boosting Sales with Customer Insights
Use payment data to make informed business decisions.
-
Analytics Tools: Track sales trends and customer behavior.
-
Inventory Management: Integrate with systems that monitor stock levels in real-time.
-
Marketing Opportunities: Identify patterns to tailor promotions and increase sales.
Catering to Various Industries
Our services are suitable for a wide range of sectors.
-
Retail: Improve checkout efficiency and customer satisfaction.
-
Hospitality: Streamline payments for restaurants, hotels, and cafes.
-
Service Providers: From salons to repair services, accept payments easily.
Simplifying Compliance and Legal Obligations
Stay compliant without the hassle.
-
Regulatory Support: We help you navigate UK regulations related to card payments.
-
Ongoing Compliance: Receive updates and support to maintain compliance over time.
-
Documentation: Access all necessary records and reports when you need them.
Quick and Easy Setup Process
Get started without delays.
-
Swift Onboarding: Our team assists you through every step of the setup.
-
Training Provided: Learn how to use your new card machines and software efficiently.
-
Minimal Downtime: Transition smoothly with no disruption to your business.
Dedicated Customer Support
We’re here to help whenever you need us.
-
24/7 Assistance: Reach out to our support team at any time.
-
Expert Guidance: Get advice on best practices and troubleshooting.
-
Resource Centre: Access tutorials, FAQs, and guides online.
Environmental Considerations
Operate sustainably with our eco-friendly options.
-
Digital Receipts: Offer email or SMS receipts to reduce paper usage.
-
Energy-Efficient Devices: Our equipment is designed to consume less power.
-
Recycling Programs: Participate in initiatives to recycle old equipment responsibly.
Future-Proofing Your Payment Systems
Prepare your business for what’s next.
-
Regular Updates: Benefit from new features and improvements.
-
Scalable Solutions: Upgrade or expand your services as your business grows.
-
Emerging Technologies: Stay ahead with support for the latest payment methods.
Taking the Next Step Towards Growth
Empower your business with effective payment solutions.
Request a Quote: Contact us to receive a customised proposal.
Join Our Network: Become part of a community dedicated to excellence in payment processing.
Focus on Success: With reliable card payment systems in place, concentrate on what matters most—growing your business.
Ready to transform your payment systems? Contact us today and discover how easy it is to accept card payments while saving on fees.