What You Need To Know Before You Sign Up For Free POS Software

When cash is tight in your company, or you are starting a business, there is a lot to consider. So when you hear the word, “free,” your ears perk up, right? And if it’s free point-of-sale (POS) software, you’re really listening. In today’s world it’s not hard to find a free POS software download for a tablet-based POS that operates in cloud technology. These are appealing, but are they really free? And is the free catch really worth it in the long run? Here is what you need to know before you sign up for free POS software.

Features and Functionality

Free POS software will probably look like limited functionality and features. For example, maybe the inventory management only allows a certain number of SKU’s, or there are limits in reporting and analytics. Also know that if a company offers a free version of something, there are typically always upsells to premium offers.

Subscriptions

Typically, larger businesses invest in a central POS system, and small businesses tend to go the month-to-month subscription route.  Free POS software will most likely follow the subscription-based route, where you add on features or different tiered packages for a fee.

Hardware

A complete POS system is comprised of software and hardware. If you are a brick and mortar store, you’ll need hardware like a receipt printer, cash drawer, credit card terminal, and maybe a barcode scanner. So while you may start with free POS software, eventually you will be investing in hardware to complete your system.

Credit Card Processing Fees

Here is probably one of the biggest reasons you should really question “free” POS software—credit card processing fees. Most “Free” POS Systems require you to sign up with their credit card processor. Although this can be an affordable option for a smaller business that isn’t very high volume, for a larger business, this can often cost much more than simply paying for a POS System. Also the systems that are free are usually lower quality, so this can end up to be a double negative, both higher cost and lower quality.

 Hidden Fees

Sometimes free can cost more than you planned for. Here are a few questions to ask yourself when signing up for free software.

  • What is the set up cost?
  • Does your hardware (if you have any) integrate with the current free subscription? Or do you have to pay for that integration?
  • Will there be any cost to receive updates to the free software? Remember your system must remain secure and compliant with PCI-DSS security standards.
  • What kind of customer care service do they provide?

In Summary

If you find that the free software offers are too limiting, then you need something a little more comprehensive. It’s better to pay for something that fits your needs then getting stuck on the word “free” and a headache in the long run.

Before you start your research on free POS software why not try Bepoz? There is no risk because we offer a 30-day Money Back Guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with the POS solution for your business, we will refund you if it’s within 30 days. Start by setting up your free demo to learn more about Bepoz today!