Switching payment processors sounds scary. Will you lose sales during the transition? Will your customers' cards stop working?
The truth: switching processors is simpler than you think, and the savings make it worth it.
Why Businesses Fear Switching
Fear of downtime: 'What if I can't accept cards for a day?'
Technical concerns: 'Will my POS/website break?'
Contracts: 'Am I locked in?'
Hassle factor: 'Is it worth the headache?'
The Truth About Switching
Downtime: Virtually Zero
Modern processor transitions happen in parallel. Your new processor is set up and tested BEFORE you stop using the old one.
Technical Integration: Easier Than You Think
• Standalone terminals: Reprogrammed in minutes
• POS systems: Most support multiple processors
• E-commerce: Updated via payment gateway settings
• Integrated systems: Your new processor handles technical work
Contracts: Know Your Exit
• Month-to-month: Switch anytime with no penalty
• Annual contracts: May have early termination fees ($200-500)
Pro tip: If saving $500/month, a $300 termination fee pays for itself in 3 weeks
Step-by-Step: How to Switch Processors
Step 1: Get your current statement (5 minutes)
Step 2: Get competing quotes - use PayPro to shop 30+ processors
Step 3: Compare effective rates, monthly fees, contract terms
Step 4: Sign with new processor (1 day)
Step 5: Equipment setup (1-3 days)
Step 6: Go live and verify deposits (1 day)
Step 7: Cancel old processor after 1 week
Timeline: What to Expect
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Get quotes | 1-2 days |
| Application approval | 1-3 days |
| Equipment delivery | 2-5 days |
| Setup and testing | 1-2 days |
| Go live | Same day |
| Total | 5-12 days |
Common Switching Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not reading the new contract - Watch for hidden fees
2. Forgetting recurring billing - Update subscription services
3. Not testing thoroughly - Run test transactions first
4. Canceling too early - Keep old processor active during transition
5. Ignoring termination fees - Factor into savings calculation
Ready to stop overpaying?
Upload your processing statement and PayPro will show the real effective rate, hidden fees, and processor markup in plain English.
Analyze my statement freeFrequently asked questions
Will I experience any downtime when switching?
No. PayPro coordinates parallel transitions where your new processor is fully tested before the old one is deactivated. Most businesses experience zero transaction downtime.
What if I have a contract with my current processor?
Calculate your savings. If you're saving $500/month, even a $500 early termination fee pays for itself in 30 days. Most of the time, switching makes financial sense.
Related articles
Interchange Plus vs Flat Rate: Which Pricing Model Saves You More?
Compare interchange plus vs flat rate pricing models. See real cost breakdowns and learn which saves businesses 15-30% on payment processing.
The 7 Hidden Fees Your Payment Processor Doesn't Want You to Know
Discover the 7 hidden fees payment processors use to inflate your costs. Learn how to spot PCI fees, batch fees, rate creep, and save $3,600-$9,600 annually.