Some types of small businesses may face more challenges than others when it comes to credit card processing. Here are a few examples:
- High-Risk Businesses: Certain industries are considered “high-risk” by credit card processors due to higher rates of chargebacks or potential for fraudulent transactions. These might include travel agencies, telemarketing companies, e-commerce stores selling high-value goods, adult-oriented businesses, and businesses in the vaping and cannabis industry.
- Micro-Businesses and Sole Proprietors: Businesses that process low volumes of transactions may not find the cost of credit card processing worthwhile. For example, freelancers, small craft shops, or farmer’s market vendors might struggle with the cost of maintaining a credit card terminal or the transaction fees.
- Mobile Businesses: Businesses that operate on the move such as food trucks, pop-up shops, or event-based services can have trouble with reliable access to mobile credit card processing solutions.
- Seasonal Businesses: Businesses that operate only during specific times of the year, like Christmas tree lots or ice cream trucks, may struggle with contractual issues, like early termination fees or monthly minimum fees during their off-seasons.
- International or Cross-Border Businesses: Businesses dealing with multiple currencies or selling internationally can have problems due to higher transaction fees, and the complexities of dealing with international fraud prevention and different tax laws.
- Businesses selling large-ticket items: These businesses can face issues due to the larger fees associated with these transactions, as well as an increased risk of chargebacks.
It’s also important to note that difficulties with credit card processing can arise for any business, not just those mentioned above. Fees, merchant service policies, customer disputes, and technical issues can all present challenges. Additionally, the needs and circumstances of individual businesses can vary widely, so the extent of these problems can differ from one business to another.