Understanding the margin.
WHAT YOU PAY
Gateway fees are typically a percentage of the transaction, sometimes with a fixed component and sometimes with a cap.
Rates vary by gateway, by payment method, and by whether the card is local or international.
WHY IT MATTERS
On a thin margin, the payment fee can be a meaningful share of your profit.
On a large transaction, a percentage fee without a cap becomes substantial.
WHAT TO CHECK
The rate for local cards The rate for international cards, which is usually higher Whether there is a cap Whether bank transfer costs less than cards, which it frequently does Settlement time, since money in transit is money you cannot use
BUILDING IT INTO PRICING
Include the fee in your prices rather than adding it at checkout. Surprise charges at the final step cause abandoned carts.
ENCOURAGING CHEAPER METHODS
If bank transfer costs you less, you can make it prominent. Do not charge more for cards; charge one price and absorb the difference.
CHECKING YOUR ACTUAL COST
Your gateway dashboard reports fees. Review them against your margin quarterly.
