- Fueled by COVID pandemic shutdowns, digital transactions in Canada continue to experience rapid growth.
- A number of options exist between traditional (Moneris, Elavon, Global Payments) and digital (Square, Stripe, PayPal) merchant account providers to suit Canadian businesses.
- A proper payment processing software coupled with a secure web hosting environment paves way for a strong foundation for selling online.
With digital transactions experiencing steep growth, accepting credit card payments on your website is integral. However, finding the right payment processing solution can take time and good understanding of the available solutions.
In this article we compare traditional payment methods with popular modern solutions to help you make a better decision. Let’s dive in and explore the best solutions for Canadian websites.
Traditional Merchant Account Providers
Traditionally, Canadian businesses have relied on account providers that offer comprehensive services. However, they would often come with complex requirements and lengthy approval processes.
Setting up a merchant account can be time-consuming and involve extensive paperwork, credit checks, and potential transaction volume restrictions. Some of the better known account providers are:
Moneris
Moneris is a popular choice among Canadian businesses. It offers various services, including merchant accounts, payment gateways, and point-of-sale systems.
While this option provides comprehensive features, its setup process can be complex and time-consuming. Additionally, they often require a separate contract and may have high fees for smaller businesses.
Elavon
Elavon is another established merchant account provider that offers various payment solutions. They provide robust security measures and a seamless integration process.
However, their pricing structure can be complex, with hidden fees and long-term contracts that may not be suitable for all businesses.
Global Payments
As the name suggests, Global Payments is an international player in the payment processing industry. They offer a range of services tailored to different business sizes.
The solutions are feature-rich, but their pricing can be on the higher side compared to other options, so small businesses may find their fees restrictive.
Trending Payment Processing Solutions
As technology progresses, Canadian website owners can access a range of user-friendly payment processing options. Today’s popular choices offer simplicity and ease of integration. They have gained significant popularity due to their user-friendly interfaces and streamlined processes.
Whether you’re a small business owner or a growing e-commerce enterprise, these platforms provide convenient solutions for accepting online payments. Some of the most common ones are:
Square
Square is a user-friendly payment processing solution that has gained popularity in Canada. It offers a simple setup process, transparent pricing, and no long-term contracts. It also provides additional tools like invoicing and inventory management.
Whether you’re a brick-and-mortar store, an online retailer, or a service-based business, Square offers a comprehensive suite of payment processing solutions tailored to your needs. Its commitment to simplicity, affordability, and a user-friendly interface has made it a trusted partner for businesses looking to enhance their payment capabilities.
Stripe
Stripe is a versatile payment gateway that can be easily integrated into your websites. It has a developer-friendly platform, ensuring a smooth implementation.
The pricing of this solution is transparent and competitive, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes. This is an attractive option with advanced features like subscription billing and global payments.
PayPal
PayPal revolutionized online payments by providing a secure and convenient way to send and receive money globally. Its widespread acceptance and integration across various platforms offer users a seamless payment experience, robust fraud protection, and flexible transaction options. This makes it a top choice for online transactions.
The choice between traditional merchant account providers and leading digital options ultimately depends on each business’s unique needs and goals. By carefully comparing features, pricing, and ease of integration, Canadian website owners can find the right credit card processing solution to enhance their online operations and provide a seamless payment experience for their customers.
A proper payment processing system coupled with a secure Canadian web hosting service from CanSpace Solutions builds a strong foundation for any Canadian business selling online. Ask us about the best plan that will provide the fastest and most secure environment for your website’s customers and let’s make your online retail success a reality together.
