When you install PrestaShop, several standard payment modules are available to you right away. These modules help you set up basic payment methods for your online store, catering to different customer needs. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at three of these modules: Cash on Delivery, Bank Transfer, and Payment by Check. Each has its own purpose and is suitable for specific situations.
1. Cash on Delivery
This payment method is popular among customers who prefer paying for their order upon receiving it. The "Cash on Delivery" module allows you to offer a convenient and secure way for customers to pay, especially those who may be skeptical of online payments.
How does it work? The customer places an order in your online store, selects this payment method, and waits for the delivery. Once the courier brings the item or the customer picks it up, payment is made in cash. The benefit of this method is the trust it builds with buyers who don’t have to worry about the security of their personal data.
When to use it:
- If your store works with courier services or offers in-store pickup.
- When you want to give your customers a payment option that doesn’t require credit cards or online banking.
2. Bank Transfer
The "Bank Transfer" module allows your customers to send payment directly to your bank account. It’s a suitable option for those who prefer traditional payment methods, particularly if they don’t use online banking or don’t have a credit card.
When a customer selects this option, they are provided with all the necessary details to complete the transfer (your bank account, IBAN, SWIFT, etc.). Once the funds are received, you ship the item. This method may take some time, but it’s an excellent option for large purchases or clients who prefer formal bank transactions.
When to use it:
- For B2B transactions or large orders where standard online payments might not be convenient.
- If you work with customers who require formal bank operations.
3. Payment by Check
While checks may not be as common nowadays, some regions and customer groups still prefer this method of payment. The "Payment by Check" module enables your customers to pay for their order by mailing a check.
How does it work? The customer places an order and receives instructions on where and how to send the check. Once the check is received and cleared, you can ship the item. This payment method is primarily used in countries where checks remain a common practice, such as the U.S. or France.
When to use it:
- If you have customers in regions where check payments are still widely accepted.
- When you want to offer a full range of payment options, including traditional methods.
Adding Flexibility: Your Own Custom Payment Method
While PrestaShop provides a solid range of payment options, sometimes the standard methods may not cover all your business needs. What if you want to offer something unique, such as payment by card via terminal in-store, payment after a fitting, or cash payment upon pickup?
For these cases, we offer the "Your Own Payment Method" module, which allows you to create custom payment methods not linked to acquiring services. With this module, you can offer completely new ways for customers to pay:
- In-Store Payment – Customers can pay for their order in your physical store when they pick it up.
- Payment by Card via Terminal – Useful for in-store pickups or deliveries.
- Payment After Fitting – Perfect for clothing stores where customers want to try on items before making a final decision.
One of the key advantages of this module is the ability to configure payments depending on the chosen carrier, making the process even more flexible and convenient for both you and your customers.
You can find more information about the module here.
PrestaShop provides convenient and reliable payment solutions that allow you to start selling to customers right away. However, if you need something more, modules like "Your Own Payment Method" help make the payment process even more flexible and tailored to your business. Think about which payment options will be most convenient for your customers and offer them exactly what they need!
