Using nothing more than your smartphone, a downloaded app, and a cheap card reader costing from $25 to $50, you can take payments anywhere there is a cellular network signal. Where mobile credit card processing really comes into its own is its sheer flexibility. The best POS systems can manage your inventory, ensure you're on top of compliance-related payment regulations, and help your business avoid fines and other administrative costs (such as chargeback fraud), all while offering advanced security features that protect from data theft and cyber breaches. They can even be great for small mom-and-pop shops that are looking to keep their initial costs down, and a tablet running apps on a stand can work in lieu of a till.Ĭredit card readers are the front end to your point of sale (POS) system, which can do much more than simply read cards. You don't need a checkout till, you just need a smartphone or tablet that can run apps to connect with a mobile card reader. This is where mobile card readers come into their own for credit card processing, allowing you to take card payments wirelessly and on the go. Taking card payments is increasingly essential for any modern business, but what happens if you want to sell at a trade fair, set up a market stall or pop-up shop, or swipe a credit card tableside in a restaurant?