Suppliers of Verifone credit card readers understand that accepting credit cards can drastically increase a company's revenue. Studies have shown that credit card customers spend up to two and a half times what they would spend with cash, so you can see how accepting credit cards can make or break a company.

Not only does accepting credit cards add to your bottom line, it makes life easier for your customers—they're not constantly running to the ATM for cash or waiting forever for checks to clear their accounts. When you make the decision to buy Verifone credit card readers, consider the following:

1. Compare the functions of different Verifone credit card reading machines. Some can read gift cards and checks as well as credit cards; some accept PIN-based transactions also.

2. Find a Verifone wireless credit card reader that suits your needs. These machines are great for businesses without a permanent office location.

3. Get the scoop on the latest Verifone credit card readers; innovations are always happening in the electronics industry.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Set up standard Verifone credit card processing machines at your store

The majority of credit card machines connect to a power outlet and a land phone line. This equipment ranges from utilitarian to high-tech, and the price tags vary accordingly. Most machines come with integrated printers, but some don't, so double-check before you buy.

I recommend: Buy new and refurbished machines from Merchant Warehouse. You can lease or buy terminals from Total Merchant Services.

Consider Verifone wireless credit card readers to use in the field

Wireless card readers are great if you don't have a storefront in which to connect the machine to a land line. This battery-operated device allows art show vendors, delivery services and mobile service businesses to accept credit cards when they otherwise wouldn't be able to. If you can accept credit cards in the field, you're more likely to get higher-ticket orders since customers don't have to pay with cash.

I recommend: Compare the two Verifone wireless machines available at USA Merchant Solutions. Or check out the options POS Online Store.com has to offer.

Get the best Verifone smart card readers and all-in-one pinpads

Contactless credit card terminals are the newest innovations on the market today. The customer simply passes his card over the card reader instead of having to swipe it. This speeds things up, so these machines are great for fast-paced restaurants or retail stores. Verifone also makes pinpads that accept swipes, making for another easy solution for your customers.

I recommend: Check out the MX800 series at RACO Industries. Browse through the pinpad options at Verifone.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many suppliers of Verifone credit card processing machines also offer merchant services. You may be able to get a free or reduced-cost machine when you sign up for an account with a merchant service provider that has competitive rates.