Starting a POS business can be a smart way to earn a steady income especially in areas where customers need quick access to cash to sort daily needs. But the truth is that the success of your POS business depends mainly on the POS machine you choose.

If you’ve ever struggled with failed transactions, long settlement delays, or customer complaints about “money not reversed,” then you already know how frustrating it can be. Sometimes, the problem may not be the customer or the network, it’s the machine itself.

Choosing the right POS machine is one of the biggest decisions every agent must make. If you pick the wrong one, you’ll spend your days apologising to angry customers. Pick the right one, and you’ll build trust, speed up transactions, earn more and grow faster.

Let’s look at some common mistakes POS agents make when choosing a machine and what to do instead.

1. Focusing on the Price Alone

Many agents rush to buy the cheapest POS machine they can find, thinking it’s a smart move to save costs. Unfortunately, that’s how many end up with slow, unreliable, or poorly supported devices.

What to Do

Don’t just chase low prices. Compare prices, transaction success rates, settlement times, durability, and customer support. A slightly more expensive POS that performs well will earn you more in the long run.

2. Ignoring Transaction Success Rate

You can’t build a profitable POS business with a device that fails transactions every day. Each failed attempt wastes your time and scares customers away. Your customers will find another agent whose POS machine works.

What to Do

Before committing, test the machine’s success rate in your area. Ask other agents or check online reviews. Choose a brand known for high uptime and reliable processing.

3. Overlooking Settlement Time

Some POS providers take 24–48 hours to settle funds, which slows down your cash flow and limits how many customers you can serve per day.

What to Do

Go for a POS provider with instant or same-day settlement. Always confirm their average settlement time before signing up because fast settlement means faster business growth.

4. Not Checking Network Strength and Coverage

If your POS constantly loses connection or “times out,” you’ll end up with multple failed transactions. In some locations, network strength differs between providers, so one POS machine might work perfectly while another struggles.

What to Do

Test the network strength in your area before making a choice. Pick machines with dual SIM options or those that automatically switch between networks for better stability.

5. Ignoring Customer Support and Maintenance

Many agents only discover poor customer service after things go wrong. When your machine freezes or a transaction hangs, you need quick help the type that Kashzoo support offers.

What to Do

Choose providers with responsive, 24/7 customer support. Also, check if they offer nearby service centres or field agents who can assist quickly. 

6. Forgetting About Security Features

Your POS machine handles sensitive customer data and funds. So, if it’s poorly secured, it can expose you to fraud or double debits, leading to trust issues and even financial loss.

What to Do

Choose a POS machine with strong encryption, EMV compliance, and fraud-detection systems. Working with trusted, regulated POS brands adds credibility and protects your business.

7. Not Considering User Interface and Ease of Use

A complicated POS machine interface can waste time and confuse both agents and customers. If it’s hard to navigate or confirm payments, you’ll make mistakes.

What to Do

Select a POS machine like Kashzoo with a simple, clear, and user-friendly interface. Test it before buying check how easy it is to perform withdrawals, transfers, or print receipts.

8. Ignoring Transaction Fees and Hidden Charges

Some POS providers advertise “low fees” but add hidden costs like service charges, maintenance fees, or penalties for idle devices. 

What to Do

Read the terms and conditions carefully. Compare transaction charges, daily targets, and penalties before committing. The best deal is one that offers transparency and stable earnings like Kashzoo POS.

9. Not Verifying Warranty or Replacement Policy

Machines can malfunction, especially in high-use areas. Some agents don’t ask what happens if their device develops a fault and later end up stranded without support.

What to Do

Choose POS providers that offer warranty coverage and easy replacement or repair options. This ensures you won’t lose money when technical issues arise.

Our Take

Your POS machine is the heart of your POS business. If it is reliable, fast, and secure, you’ll build trust and keep your customers coming back.

So, before you buy your next machine;

• Check reliability and settlement speed
• Compare transaction fees and network strength
• Prioritise customer support and security 
• Choose Kashzoo POS for your POS business when in doubt