Handheld POS (Point of Sale) terminals are transforming the way businesses manage transactions, track stock, and improve customer service. These portable devices provide unparalleled convenience and speed, whether you are managing a retail store, a restaurant, or a convenience store. If you’re new to using a handheld terminal, this guide will take you through everything you need to know to get started.
In this blog, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to use handheld POS terminals, including their features, setup, and benefits, particularly in the retail and convenience store industries.
What Is a Handheld POS Terminal?
A handheld POS terminal is a compact, mobile device that enables businesses to process payments, scan barcodes, track stock, and manage sales transactions on the go. These terminals are designed to be portable, offering the flexibility to work anywhere within the store or even on the move, making them invaluable for retail businesses, restaurants, and convenience stores alike.
Key features of a handheld POS terminal typically include:
- Touchscreen Interface: An intuitive touchscreen for easy navigation, allowing users to interact with the device effortlessly.
- Barcode Scanner: Built-in barcode scanning capabilities for instantly processing product information and updating stock.
- NFC & Contactless Payments: The ability to accept payments via NFC (Near Field Communication) and contactless methods like credit cards, debit cards, or smartphones for faster and more secure transactions.
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Connectivity: Ensures the device can connect seamlessly to the internet and other systems, allowing real-time transaction updates and stock management.
- Thermal Printer: Allows for the printing of receipts directly from the device, providing customers with transaction proof in an instant.
Types of Handheld POS Terminals
There are various types of handheld POS terminals designed to cater to different business needs. Understanding the options available can help you choose the right device for your business.
- Basic Handheld POS Terminals: These are entry-level devices with essential features like payment processing, barcode scanning, and basic stock management. Ideal for small-scale operations or businesses looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly option.
- Advanced Handheld POS Terminals: These terminals are equipped with more advanced features, such as advanced analytics, CRM integration, multi-device connectivity, and support for a wide range of payment methods. They are suitable for larger businesses or those with more complex needs.
- Rugged Handheld POS Terminals: Designed for tough environments, these terminals are built to withstand drops, spills, and extreme temperatures. Perfect for businesses that operate in challenging environments, such as warehouses or outdoor markets.
- Mobile POS Terminals: These are often smartphone-based devices that use specialised POS software and accessories like card readers and barcode scanners. Ideal for businesses that require portability and flexibility, such as food trucks or pop-up shops.
Features of Handheld POS Terminals
The effectiveness of a handheld POS terminal largely depends on its features. Here are some of the key functionalities that make these devices invaluable for businesses:
- Touchscreen Interface: A user-friendly touchscreen makes it easy to access various features, such as processing payments, generating reports, or viewing customer information.
- Barcode Scanning: Instant barcode scanning eliminates the need for manual data entry, making stock management more efficient and reducing the likelihood of human error.
- Payment Options: Handheld POS terminals often support multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, mobile wallets, NFC payments, and QR codes, ensuring your business can accommodate a wide range of customer preferences.
- Stock Management: Integration with stock systems allows businesses to track stock in real-time, preventing out-of-stock situations and enabling automatic reorder alerts when stock levels are low.
- Reports and Analytics: Advanced models often come with built-in reporting capabilities that help business owners analyse sales trends, monitor employee performance, and track stock metrics.
- Portable Design: The compact and lightweight design of handheld POS terminals allows for easy use in any setting, whether behind the counter, on the floor, or even in the field.
How to Set Up a Handheld POS Terminal
Setting up a handheld POS terminal is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Charge the Device: Before using the terminal, ensure it is fully charged to avoid disruptions during operation.
- Connect to Wi-Fi or Mobile Network: Ensure your device is connected to the internet so it can process real-time transactions and sync data with your cloud-based POS system.
- Install Necessary Applications: While many devices come with pre-installed software, you may need to customise the system by adding specific apps or configuring settings to align with your business requirements.
- Sync with Stock & Payment System: Link the terminal to your stock management system and payment gateway. This ensures real-time updates on stock levels and payments.
Test the Device: Run a few test transactions to ensure everything is functioning smoothly and that there are no issues with connectivity, payment processing, or receipt printing.
How to Use a Handheld POS Terminal
Once your device is set up, using it is simple and intuitive. Here’s a breakdown of how to use the key features of the terminal:
1. Processing Payments
- Select the payment method from the device’s interface.
- Scan or manually input the product details.
- Allow the customer to make payment via credit/debit card, NFC, or QR code.
- Print or email the receipt to the customer, depending on their preference.
2. Scanning Barcodes for Stock Management
- Use the integrated barcode scanner to quickly scan product barcodes and update the stock system.
- Keep track of stock levels, identify low-stock items, and receive automatic restock alerts.
3. Managing Orders
- Add items to customer orders directly from the handheld device.
- Apply any discounts, promotions, or loyalty points.
- Monitor the real-time status of orders, including payment and shipping progress.
4. Printing Receipts
- After a transaction, press the ‘Print’ button to generate a receipt.
- Ensure the thermal printer has paper loaded correctly.
- Hand the receipt to the customer for confirmation.
How Handheld POS Terminals Can Benefit Retail and Convenience Stores
Handheld POS terminals offer a range of benefits, especially in retail and convenience store environments:
- Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility: Unlike traditional countertop POS systems, handheld terminals allow store employees to process payments and check out customers anywhere in the store. This flexibility speeds up the checkout process and improves the customer experience.
- Reduced Queue Times: By taking payments on the floor and providing checkout options away from the counter, handheld terminals can reduce long lines, particularly during peak hours.
- Real-Time Stock Updates: Retailers can scan barcodes and immediately update stock levels, ensuring they always have accurate data on product availability. This helps prevent stockouts and enhances stock control.
- Customer Experience: Customers appreciate the speed and efficiency that handheld POS terminals bring. They can pay quickly, and receipts can be emailed directly, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
- Multi-Tasking Capability: In convenience stores, handheld terminals can serve multiple purposes, including processing payments, checking prices, managing promotions, and tracking sales—all from a single, compact device.
Why MPOS Handheld Terminals Are a Game-Changer for Your Convenience Store
MPOS is an advanced EPOS system developed by MHouse Business Solutions Ltd, based in Motherwell, Scotland. MPOS is a feature-packed Electronic Point of Sales system as well as software built for retailers, by retailers. This system includes a variety of products that help streamline retail operations, from Self-Service Kiosks to Hand-held Terminals for real-time stock management and sales processing on the go.
As a convenience store owner in the UK, staying on top of your stock, sales, and customer service can be challenging. But with MPOS Handheld Terminals, you can simplify all these tasks and more.
Let’s break down why this portable device is the ultimate choice for your business.
Instant Stock Management and Real-Time Data Updates
Gone are the days of waiting to update stock records. With MPOS Handheld Terminals, you can manage stock directly from the shop floor. Whether you’re receiving goods or uploading invoices, these devices allow you to instantly update your stock and keep everything organised.
This means no more scrambling to find out what’s in stock or running out of popular items. You get real-time insights, so you can keep your store fully stocked and ready for customers.
Control Your Store from Anywhere
MPOS Handheld Terminals integrate seamlessly with your back-office systems. This means you can control every aspect of your store, from managing stock to tracking sales, all from the convenience of your handheld device. No need to run to the back office to make updates; everything is at your fingertips.
Improved Customer Service Anywhere in the Store
Your customers want quick, efficient service, and MPOS Handheld Terminals allow your staff to provide it—no matter where they are. Equipped with these devices, your team can assist customers anywhere on the sales floor, whether they’re looking for a product, asking about promotions, or making a purchase. This enhances the overall shopping experience, making customers feel valued and cared for.
Keep Track of Promotions with Ease
Promotions are key to driving sales in a convenience store. With MPOS Handheld Terminals, you can display active promotions directly on the device, making it easy for your staff to communicate special offers to customers. This ensures your promotions are always top of mind and helps boost sales on the shop floor.
Replenish Stock on the Go
Need to reorder products or create purchase orders? MPOS Handheld Terminals let you do it all while moving around the store. You can create purchase orders on the go, streamlining the replenishment process. This not only saves time but also ensures you don’t miss out on products your customers are looking for.
Minimise Wastage with Smart Tracking
Every convenience store deals with wastage, but MPOS Handheld Terminals make it easier to track. The device generates reports on product wastage, helping you identify trends and areas for improvement. This data allows you to make smarter purchasing decisions and minimise waste, saving you money in the long run.
Real-Time Stock Adjustments
Managing stock levels can be a headache, but MPOS Handheld Terminals make it simple. These devices provide real-time stock updates, meaning you always know exactly what’s available and what needs restocking. With seamless integration with stock management software, you can make stock adjustments on the spot, ensuring accurate records and smooth operations.
Optimise Campaigns and Drive Sales
Promotions and campaigns are a big part of retail success. With MPOS Handheld Terminals, you can optimise campaigns directly from the device. Whether you’re running a seasonal sale or a flash discount, you can manage campaigns effectively, boosting sales and keeping your customers engaged.
The Bottom Line
Handheld POS terminals are essential tools for businesses aiming to improve operational efficiency and enhance the customer experience. Whether you’re running a small retail shop, a large department store, or a convenience store, these devices are designed to streamline transactions and provide real-time data for smarter decision-making.
Investing in a handheld terminal will not only improve your operational workflow but also position your business for future growth. If you’re looking to improve your efficiency and customer service, MPOS Handheld Terminals are the smart choice.
