SumUp is a no-fuss, all-encompassing service within the mobile card payment processing market. Active in 31 countries and able to accept a wide range of payments, it has all the essential tools needed to take face-to-face payments effortlessly and seamlessly.
A wireless card reader connects to your mobile device, or you can opt for the standalone device, allowing you to process card payments securely over the internet. It’s quick and easy to sign up and there are no contractual obligations, hidden fees, or monthly costs. Let’s delve further into the details below.
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How does the SumUp payment process work?
Processing payments with SumUp is simple. The app’s main screen shows the product menu (with products you will have added) and you can then manually enter an amount in pounds, listing the product description. When ready to pay, tap ‘charge’. If the customer is paying by card, the transaction amount will then be sent to the card reader, as long as it’s connected and located close by. The card reader display will then switch on and prompt the customer to insert or tap their card/phone to pay. Once payment has gone through, a receipt can be printed from either a wireless printer connected within the app, or via email/text direct to the customer.
The minimum payment amount is £1 and customers are able to pay by contactless card/phone for amounts up to £30 without entering their PIN. There’s no transaction limit on Apple Pay or Google Pay payments. SumUp sends payments to your bank account daily, minus the transaction fee, usually taking between 1-3 working days to clear in your bank account. However, you can opt to be paid on a monthly or weekly schedule if you prefer. And that’s it.
Pricing & Fees
SumUp
Monthly fees: None
Card reader cost: SumUp Air = £59 + VATSumUp 3G = £99 + VAT
Transaction fee: 1.69%
Remote transaction fee: 2.95% + £0.25
Refunds: Free within 1-3 days, 1.69% after
Chargeback fee: £10
There are no ongoing or monthly fees with SumUp – it’s simply a case of paying a flat rate of 1.69% per transaction. Refunds are free as long as they are processed prior to the transaction being paid into your bank account, otherwise the original 1.69% card fee will be charged. Chargebacks have an admin cost of £10.
The main cost difference here will come down to the card reader that you choose. The SumUp Air card reader currently costs £59 + VAT, whilst the SumUp 3G comes in at £99 + VAT.
SumUP are also one of a few providers in the UK that can offer remote payments without a mandatory monthly charge, although virtual terminal payments come in at a cost of 2.95% + 25p per transaction.
Many small businesses and entrepreneurs find SumUp a budget-friendly option, along with companies like Square and iZettle.
Cardreaders: SumUp Air vs SumUp 3G
Let’s start with the SumUp Air. It’s a stylish and compact device, and incredibly easy to use. Compatible with most smartphones and android tablets, it also has a high battery life, lasting up to 500 transactions. The Air comes with a free micro USB cable for when it needs charging. You can also opt for SumUp’s charging station which can be placed on a counter-top and kept on charge all day.
For those who would rather a standalone device that doesn’t require a mobile app to accept payments, the SumUP 3G is a great option. It has an inbuilt SIM card with unlimited data so there’s no need for a mobile device/tablet to process card payments through the terminal. This is ideal for those who don’t require complex POS features. Obviously, it’s more expensive than the SumUp Air so it comes down to a matter of preference.
One thing to note is the SumUp app doesn’t directly connect to POS accessories like cash drawers or barcode scanners, except for compatible receipt printers that may link to a cash drawer that way. Also, whilst both readers are able to accept most major debit cards, credit cards, and contactless payments, SumUp is unable to take payments from JCB or Samsung Pay.
Product Features
SumUp’s product offering is basic, although it does offer the choice of the two card readers which is a unique feature. A full POS system can also be purchased as a bundle comprising of a tablet, cash drawer, receipt printer and SumUp Air.
In terms of the POS app, it works well, but again it’s pretty basic. It only accepts cards and cash, with no option to add vouchers or split payments. Those in the hospitality industry will also be disappointed to learn that there’s no option to add a tip to a transaction, and the reporting functionality is also fairly limited.
Despite these shortcomings, SumUp can offer more extensive POS systems aligned with your needs as your business grows.
For those using the SumUp Air who want to offer paper receipts, compatible receipt printers via Bluetooth are available at an extra cost. You can also opt for the SumUp 3G Card Reader and Printer bundle for the bargain price of £129 + VAT (until 31/07/20).
Customer Service & User Reviews
SumUp has a helpful online support centre. Here you can find a library of guides that should cover most of the issues you’re likely to come across. If you can’t find the answer to your question, they have a ticket-based email system, although this can be a little slow. Fortunately, they also employ a phone line which is open on weekdays between 8am and 7pm, and between 8am and 5pm and Saturdays as standard.
So what about those all important customer reviews? Well, SumUp scores a fairly impressive 4.4 out of 5 on Trust Pilot here. The most recent reviews are pretty mixed but compare favourably to other mobile card reader companies.
The verdict?
Drumroll please. SumUp is ideal for sole traders and small business owners who need to start accepting card payments face-to-face or on the go. The SumUp app and terminal have the essentials you need, without compromising on quality or cost. It’s a great solution for those just getting started.
