When investigating checkout delays, most business owners blame the slow service, understaffing or the usual rush-hour traffic, but one thing that often goes unnoticed is the card machine itself. It doesn’t have to be old or broken to slow the checkout process. Even a perfectly working machine can cause delays in these four common ways.
1. Weak internet connection
Most card machines use an internet connection, such as Wi-Fi or mobile data to carry out transactions. A weak or unstable connection can drop anytime and cause the transactions to fail way which forces you to restart the whole process. This of course delay the checkout process but can even result in other problems like repeated fund transfers.
A quick fix to this problem is to check the signal strength in the area before placing the card machine there. If you consistently face configuration problems with a wireless internet connection, you could also switch to a wired Ethernet internet connection, which is typically more stable and secure.
2. Outdated software
If you have not updated your card machine in a while, the outdated software can affect the speed of the checkout process and become incompatible with other devices over time.
You can avoid this problem by setting up a monthly schedule to regularly update your card machine software. Many providers allow automatic updates, so make sure this feature is turned on where possible.
In some cases, slow performance is linked to lower-end machines that lack the features of the latest models. In that case, you might need to consider upgrading to an advanced model of a card machine that is compatible with the latest software versions. If you’re not sure about what kind of investment to expect, here’s a blog to guide you through the card machine prices in the UK in 2025.
3. Setup of the checkout terminal
Sometimes, the delay in the checkout process is caused by something as simple as the placement of the card machine. If it is awkwardly placed on the counter in hard-to-reach places or shared among multiple terminals, it adds unnecessary time to each transaction. These small delays continue to add up, especially in busy hours and lead to longer queues and slow checkout processes.
· To speed things up, make sure that each terminal has its own card machine. This avoids the need for the staff to pass it between the tills, which saves time during the payment process.
· Another great way to improve the speed of the checkout process is to install a card machine stand that allows it to rotate and face the customer directly. This makes it easier for them to insert or tap their cards without manually passing the device between cashiers and customers.
4. Lack of regular cleaning
If a card machine is not cleaned regularly, dust, grease, and dirt can settle in the small parts like the card slot, touchscreen or keypad of the card machine. Over time, this leads to issues like the card not being read on the first swipe, buttons that don’t press properly, or delayed responses from the screen. Ultimately, the device wears out faster and drags down the checkout speed, too.
To avoid this problem, clean your card machine regularly and place it in a safe spot away from spills and physical damage. This saves you from frequently repairing your device and extends its life. Keep your customers satisfied by choosing a reliable card machine provider. Get help from ComparedBusiness to choose the best card machine provider for your business.
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