1/25/2025

Using Shopify Card Readers with Stripe: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re venturing into the world of e-commerce, you’ll quickly realize that choosing the right payment solution is pivotal to your success. Among the top choices are Shopify's card readers, seamlessly integrating with the platform to help optimize in-store transactions. However, you might ask, "How can I link these amazing card readers with Stripe?" That’s exactly what we’ll explore in this guide!

What Is Shopify POS?

Shopify POS is a point-of-sale solution designed for merchants to manage in-person transactions. It's perfect for brick-and-mortar stores and pop-up shops alike! Shopify integrates its POS system with various card readers to process payments safely & efficiently.

Getting Started with Shopify Card Readers

Before we dive into specifics about linking with Stripe, let’s look at the Shopify card readers and their capabilities:

Tap & Chip Reader: This wireless device allows customers to pay by tapping, inserting, or swiping their cards. Perfect for quick transactions!
Shopify POS Terminal: A more advanced solution for businesses that require a full-featured POS system, including a touchscreen for easier navigation.

Both these readers support various payment methods, including credit cards, chip cards, and contactless payments. Now, let’s move onto how you can integrate them with Stripe!

Why Use Stripe with Shopify?

Stripe is known for its flexibility & numerous payment options such as credit/debit cards, digital wallets, etc. In recent conversations on Stripe's integration with Shopify, merchants have been expressing their needs to tap into more advanced features beyond what's available through Shopify Payments, which is integrated with Stripe by default.

By using Stripe, you unlock features such as:

Custom Payment Solutions: Easily offer different payment methods & tailor the payment solutions to the needs of your customers.
Advanced Analytics: Get detailed insight into customer behaviors and payments.
Global Payment Support: Accept payments from customers around the world, including popular options like WeChat Pay and Alipay.

Linking Shopify Card Readers to Stripe: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Accounts

First things first! You need both a Shopify account & a Stripe account to get started. If you don’t already have them:

Step 2: Configure Your Shopify POS

Install the Shopify POS App: Download the Shopify POS app on your device (available on iOS & Android) from the relevant app store.
Set Up Your Device: Log in to the app using your Shopify credentials. Ensure you have connected your Shopify card reader following the instructions in Shopify's guide. If it's your first time, you might have to reset the reader.
Add Your Payment Processor: Within the app, navigate to Settings > Payments. Here, you could see options on integrating various payment providers.

Step 3: Deactivate Shopify Payments (Optional)

To use Stripe specifically, some merchants prefer to deactivate Shopify Payments:

Go to Settings > Payments on the Shopify dashboard.
Click on Manage next to Shopify Payments.
Scroll down and hit the Deactivate Shopify Payments button.
- By doing this, you have to make sure you understand that you might incur additional charges from using a third-party payment gateway.

Step 4: Activate Stripe as a Third-Party Payment Processor

After deactivating, within Settings > Payments, search for Third-party Providers.
Click on Choose Provider and select Stripe. If you can't find it, consult the Shopify guide on Third-Party Payment Providers for detailed assistance.
Enter your Stripe account information and save the changes.

Step 5: Testing Your Setup

Once everything is configured:

Run a few test transactions to ensure the system works as expected. Use a test payment card number provided by Stripe for this purpose, or you can ask friends/family to make small purchases.
Monitor the transaction flow from your Shopify admin to Stripe’s dashboard to check for consistency.

Step 6: Provide Great Customer Experience

Now that you have successfully set up Shopify card readers with Stripe, focus on providing a smooth payment experience for your customers. Here are a few tips:

Educate Your Staff: Make sure everyone is trained on how to use the card reader and troubleshoot common issues.
Display Clear Payment Instructions: On your checkout page and in-store, guide customers on how they can complete their transactions.
Feedback Collection: Seek feedback from customers regarding the new payment process; adapt it as needed to enhance ease & satisfaction.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

While most setups are straightforward, you might stumble upon a few hiccups:

Card Reader Not Connecting: If the reader isn't pairing, ensure that your payment test mode is off. This speeds up the connection process when trying to link devices.
Unsupported Payment Options: If certain payment choices aren't appearing, verify your Stripe account and ensure it’s set up correctly with the supported payment methods.
Transaction Failures: Always keep an eye on online communities like Shopify Community for real-time discussion about similar issues.

The Power of Automation with Arsturn

Once your payment system is up and running, don’t forget to engage your audience! Arsturn allows you to create custom AI chatbots for your website, boosting both engagement & conversions effortlessly.

Imagine having an intelligent assistant that seamlessly answers your customer queries about payments, refund policies, or card reader troubleshooting, even when you’re busy! Tailor responses with your unique branding for a cohesive user experience.

Final Thoughts

Integrating Shopify card readers with Stripe allows you flexibility and an enriched customer experience. Take the time to set it up correctly and don’t hesitate to tap into available resources for guidance. And remember, if you want to level up your customer engagement while handling payments, give Arsturn a try!

Happy selling! 🎉