How to take payments at craft fairs.
To take payments at craft fairs, accept cards with a reader that works on your phone or tablet, keep cash for change, set up a way to record every sale, and prepare for weak signal at the venue. Compare the fees of each provider and cover them in your prices.
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Choose how you will get paid.
Most shoppers expect to pay by card. A card reader that pairs with your phone or tablet is the common choice; many point-of-sale providers offer one. Compare each provider's processing fees, payout timing, hardware cost and refund rules. Also consider mobile wallets and a QR code to a payment page.
- Pick a provider you can use at every event and online, so your sales land in one place.
- Read the fine print on payout holds, chargebacks and fees on keyed-in cards.
Plan for no signal.
Venues, basements and busy crowds can kill your connection. Download offline modes if your provider has one, bring a hotspot, and keep cash on hand. Charge devices fully and bring a battery pack.
- Bring small bills and coins for change, and a cash box you can lock or keep on you.
- Tell shoppers up front which payment types you accept with a small sign.
Cover the fees in your price.
Card processing is a cost of doing business, so build it into your prices rather than surprising shoppers at the table. Treat processing as part of your cost per item when you price.
Record every sale.
Track cash and card sales in the same place so you can reconcile each event and report income and sales tax correctly. A simple spreadsheet or the reports from your point-of-sale app work.
Take orders at the booth.
If you already use bzar for your storefront and market applications, you can also take orders from shoppers while you are at a market.
- Apply to markets and events on bzar and pay booth fees by card.
Common questions.
How do I take card payments at a craft fair?
Use a card reader or payment app on your phone or tablet, check that it works offline or with a hotspot, and keep cash for change.
Do I need a card reader to sell at a market?
Not required, but many shoppers expect to pay by card, so you will likely lose sales without one.
What if there is no internet at the venue?
Bring a mobile hotspot, enable offline payments if your provider offers them, and carry cash for change.
Should I pass card fees on to shoppers?
Rules on surcharging vary by card network and state. Most vendors build the fee into prices instead. Check your provider's terms.
Keep reading.
Get booked and sell on bzar.
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