Free point of sale systems seem like attractive option for business owners who are considering purchasing a system for their business. And why not? It’s free! The only problem is….it’s not actually free. In fact, a “free” POS system may actually cost more money than a POS setup from a more established vendor.

If you agree to a free POS that is tied to a payment-processing contract, make sure you read all of the documentation so you understand the terms. Yes, you may be sent a POS system with no upfront cost, but you will be tied to the same payment processor and fee structure, usually for years. It seems like no big deal, but this agreement means you can’t shop around for the best rates, a decision that could cost you some serious cash in the long term. The amount of money you end up paying out to the processor over the life of your contract can actually pay for your system—several times over.

The truth is, while parts of the system are free, the rest of it you’ll pay for, in addition to the payment processor agreement. It varies from vendor to vendor, but you could have to pay for the installation, software upgrades and tech support. Basic functions may be free, but some companies require you to pay for enhanced features, programs or reporting capabilities.

Some free POS systems are not industry-specific, so if you’re in a sensitive industry that needs a lot of customized features, a free POS may not be the best choice.

Sure, it sounds like a fantastic opportunity. But a free POS is only as free as the fine print. To talk to POS experts that can get your business set up with the right point of sale system, contact pcAmerica today!