Switching payment providers can feel like a smart business move – especially if you’re being promised a free terminal, or a low monthly deal. But in reality, not all contracts are created equal.
We’ve seen too many Kiwi business owners locked into long-term agreements that don’t suit their needs. Soon after only to discover hidden costs, poor support, or terminals that don’t even process debit EFTPOS transactions.
Before you sign, here are the questions you should always ask.
Is a “free rental” really free?
Just like we’ve heard time and time again… there’s no such thing as free. Many providers offer low-cost or free rentals upfront but make their money through higher transaction fees, add-ons, or rolling contracts that are difficult to exit.
Does the terminal suit my business?
Not all EFTPOS terminals are created equal. A busy café has different needs than a retail store, or a rural dairy. Make sure your EFTPOS terminal can handle your volume, customer preferences, and industry-specific demands.
We’ve created an interactive quiz to help decide between our two most popular units – the Move 5000 vs Desk 5000. Your business might require a different terminal, so don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team.
Will it connect with my POS system?
Integration between your EFTPOS terminal and your POS system (NZ businesses often use Vend, Lightspeed, SwiftPOS, etc.) can save time, reduce errors, and improve the customer experience. Always confirm compatibility before you sign.
What are the SLAs (Service Level Agreements)?
If your terminal goes down, how quickly will you get support or a replacement? A contract without clear SLAs can leave you stranded at your busiest time. Ask what guarantees exist for uptime, support response, and terminal replacement.
Can it process all payment types?
This one’s critical for New Zealand merchants. Some global providers don’t support local debit EFTPOS, routing transactions through credit instead, meaning higher fees for you. A good terminal should handle:
Local debit EFTPOS (zero fees)
Credit cards & scheme debit
Contactless & mobile wallets
QR codes
Are there hidden costs?
Check the fine print. Are you paying extra for contactless? Mobile wallets? Contract exit fees? What about software updates? Make sure you understand the total cost of ownership.
Is support local?
When things go wrong, you don’t want to wait on hold to an offshore call centre. Local, Kiwi-based support means faster fixes and people who understand the unique NZ payments environment.
Am I being locked into a long contract?
Some providers push 3-year rolling contracts that are difficult to exit. Flexibility matters. Especially if your business grows, changes, or simply needs a different solution down the track.
Why it pays to ask questions first.
Your EFTPOS terminal is at the heart of your business. The wrong contract can cost you money, time, and customer trust.
That’s why it’s worth talking to your reseller before signing anything. They can help you understand what your business really needs and what’s just a marketing spin.
At Skyzer, we believe Kiwi business owners deserve transparency, reliability, and choice – not hidden traps.
