If you’re thinking of taking payments online, you’ll need a payment gateway. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
What is an online payment gateway?
In simple terms, an online payment gateway is cloud-based software that seamlessly transfers payment information to allow a customer to pay you. Between all of the different parties involved, from banks to credit card companies, online payment gateways are the easiest and most secure way to authorise payments and transfer funds.
To facilitate an online payment gateway, some platforms may require a merchant bank account that is specifically lined up for online payments (and not just in person payments) – this can be sorted through your bank. If you’re planning on using the likes of PayPal and Stripe, a merchant’s account isn’t necessary.
Types of payment gateways
Self-hosted
Many businesses have self-hosted, or on-site, payment gateways. With this method, customers can enter their card details directly into your website, and the entire transaction happens on your servers. It sounds simple, but it brings with it a lot of PCI compliance issues. Since you are responsible for your customers’ data storage and security, each year you would be required to submit a hefty amount of documentation around your policies and procedures, to ensure you’re providing the best privacy and security for your payment gateway. Whilst this is perfect for big brands, at Blue Llama we think it’s far too much of a paperwork nightmare!
Hosted
The other, and arguably best option for small businesses, is to utilise a hosted, or off-site, payment gateway. With the hosted method, the customer is directed to a payment page hosted on their gateway provider’s website for the transaction to be processed. Seamless for the customer but, this way, their card details never go near your servers, greatly reducing your liability – and your paperwork.
Payment gateway providers
There are a lot of different providers out there, all offering different features and terms, but it can be overwhelming figuring out how to choose between them. It’s also important to note that some providers do not work in Jersey. So we’re sharing our favourite providers to help you take the first steps in setting up your online payment gateway.
Our top picks
Opayo
When we’re working with clients, we always recommend Opayo. Formerly Sage Pay, they’re a big brand with a personal touch. The setup process is fairly simple: apply online and, once approved, integrate Opayo into your website (you can do this yourself, or ask your web developer to help you.)
Opayo’s online payment system is easily integrated onto all major ecommerce platforms, and they are certified to the highest level PCI DSS Level 1, which can reduce the compliance requirements for you, that we mentioned earlier. Opayo does charge a monthly fee that varies depending on your number of transactions per month, but it offers easy payments for customers, and a reliable, transparent service for merchants.
CityPay
If you want to support a local business, CityPay is a Jersey-based provider of a variety of different online payment gateway services. Unlike some of its larger-name competitors, CityPay has a UK phone number and is always available to help, whether it’s setting up your account or resolving a customer query.
PayPal
PayPal is a name that everyone knows. It’s fairly easy and free to set up (you just need a standard bank account – not a merchant’s) and offers customers alternative payment methods like PayPal Credit, as well standard credit and debit card payments. Money paid into your PayPal account will sit there and accumulate safely until you withdraw it into your bank account. PayPal doesn’t charge a monthly fee, but it does have higher transaction costs compared to some other payment gateways. So if your ecommerce business is new and your number of monthly transactions is quite low, you might feel that the fee is worth the ease and informality of this payment gateway. Depending on the customer, though, it might be less convenient for them to purchase if they do not have an existing PayPal account.
Other providers
Amazon Pay
Amazon Pay – Capitalising on their current strength within the ecommerce market, Amazon have launched their own payment gateway, cleverly integrating it with their existing offering. Customers can speed up checkout by using the information already stored in their Amazon account, or even use Alexa to pay by voice or check on an order status.
Who to avoid
Stripe and Shopify Payments, that run off the Stripe platform, are two to avoid because they currently do not accept Jersey bank accounts. This is sad because Stripe is a really great alternative. Digital Jersey have been trying to persuade Shopify to enter the Channel Islands but so far to no avail.
Integration, payments, compliance – we know that these are often words that can strike fear into the heart of any business owner! Hopefully this has helped to bring some much-needed clarity to a complex issue but, remember, you’re not alone. We can help. From sharing creative ideas to guiding you through the nitty-gritty, working with Blue Llama will bring ease and simplicity to your digital business. Why not give me a call.
