Run payments, sales, and business tools in one place with Clover.
About Clover Merchant Services
Clover offers a modern approach to payment processing for small businesses. It combines stylish hardware with powerful point-of-sale (POS) software. This technology helps businesses accept credit cards, manage sales, and track inventory. Clover Network, Inc. is owned by Fiserv, a major player in financial technology. While you can buy directly from Clover.com, most businesses get their Clover system through a bank or a third-party reseller. This unique structure gives you many options but can also create confusion about pricing and support. This review breaks down everything you need to know about Clover’s services.
Key Features
Clover systems are designed to be more than just credit card readers. They are complete business management tools with a wide range of built-in capabilities. These core features are available across most of their plans and hardware options, providing a solid foundation for any small business owner. Understanding these features is the first step in seeing how Clover might fit into your daily operations.
- Accepts all major payment types, including credit, debit, and mobile wallets.
- Cloud-based POS software for managing your business from anywhere.
- Detailed sales reporting and real-time analytics.
- Tools for basic inventory and customer relationship management (CRM).
- Access to a large App Market for third-party integrations.
- Employee management features like permissions and shift tracking.
- Customizable receipts and customer-facing displays.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sleek, user-friendly POS hardware
- All-in-one payment system
- Strong sales management tools
- Large app marketplace
- Easy for staff to learn
Cons
- Hardware can be expensive
- Locked into Clover hardware
- Pricing varies by reseller
Clover Plans and Pricing
Clover separates its pricing into software plans and hardware costs. Each software plan is designed for different types of businesses, from simple payment acceptance to full-service restaurant management. Your monthly fee depends on the software features you need. On top of the monthly software cost, you must also purchase Clover’s proprietary hardware. The total investment can vary greatly, so it’s important to match the right plan and device to your business needs and budget.
There are two primary software packages for retail and service businesses:
Starter Plan: Best for new businesses needing a simple payment solution. It offers basic functions to accept payments, run reports, and manage customers. This is ideal for those who don’t need complex inventory or staff management tools.
Standard Plan: A more robust option for growing businesses. It includes everything in Starter, plus advanced inventory tracking, order management, and customer engagement tools. This plan works well with more powerful hardware like the Clover Mini or Station.
For restaurants, Clover offers specialized plans that include features like table mapping, online ordering, and managing tips. These plans are tailored to the unique workflow of food service establishments. Carefully consider which software package offers the tools you need without adding unnecessary costs.
Clover Fees and Rates: A Detailed Breakdown
Understanding Clover’s fee structure is crucial. Your costs will include monthly software fees, a one-time hardware purchase, and credit card processing rates. The processing rates are the most complex part, as they depend on where you get your Clover account. You can sign up directly through Clover.com for predictable flat-rate pricing. Alternatively, you can go through a reseller, like a bank or an independent sales organization (ISO), which will offer different pricing models. This choice significantly impacts your overall monthly expenses.
Here is a breakdown of the typical costs associated with Clover:
| Fee Type | Typical Cost (Direct from Clover.com) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware Purchase | $49 – $1,799 (one-time) | Cost for the physical POS device (Go, Flex, Mini, Station). |
| Starter Software Plan | $14.95 per month | For basic payment acceptance and business management. |
| Standard Software Plan | $49.95 – $99.95 per month | For advanced inventory, order, and customer management features. |
| In-Person Processing Rate | 2.3% + 10¢ per transaction | Applies to tapped, dipped, or swiped cards with the Standard plan. |
| Online/Keyed-In Rate | 3.5% + 10¢ per transaction | Applies to e-commerce or manually entered card numbers. |
Important Note: The processing rates listed above are for accounts opened directly with Clover. If you work with a reseller, they will set their own rates. These could be interchange-plus, tiered, or a different flat-rate structure. Always get a full fee schedule in writing and read your merchant agreement carefully before signing. Watch out for hidden fees, long-term contracts, and early termination penalties (ETFs) which can be $500 or more.
In-Depth: Clover Hardware and Software Features
Clover’s biggest strength is the deep integration between its hardware and software. The devices are modern and built for specific business environments, while the software provides the power to run operations. The Clover Dashboard serves as the central hub for your business data, accessible from any web browser. From hardware that fits in your pocket to full-service counter setups, Clover provides a range of options. Let’s explore the key hardware devices and the software that drives them.
Clover POS Hardware
- Clover Go: A small, portable card reader that pairs with your smartphone or tablet. It’s perfect for merchants on the move, like food trucks or service professionals who work at client sites. It accepts chip, swipe, and contactless payments.
- Clover Flex: A handheld, all-in-one POS device. It has a built-in scanner and receipt printer. The Flex is great for taking orders and payments at the table, in line, or anywhere in your store.
- Clover Mini: A compact countertop POS with a small touchscreen, scanner, and receipt printer. It can run as a standalone terminal or connect to a larger system. It’s a versatile choice for small shops and cafes.
- Clover Station and Station Duo: Clover’s most powerful countertop systems. The Station Duo features two screens: one for the employee and a customer-facing screen for payments and interaction. These are designed for busy retail stores and restaurants.
Clover POS Software
Clover Dashboard: This is your command center. Log in from any computer to view sales data, manage inventory, adjust employee permissions, and configure your settings. The data syncs across all your Clover devices in real-time.
App Market: The Clover App Market is a key advantage. You can add new capabilities to your system by installing apps. There are hundreds of apps for things like advanced payroll, email marketing, online ordering, and accounting software integration (like QuickBooks).
Virtual Terminal: This feature allows you to accept payments over the phone. You can key in customer credit card details through the Clover Dashboard on your computer. This carries a higher processing rate but is a valuable tool for many businesses.
How to Get Started with Clover
Setting up a Clover system involves a few key steps. The process begins with choosing the right hardware and software plan for your business. Because Clover is often sold through third parties, your first step will be to find a provider. This could be your local bank or a dedicated merchant services company. It’s wise to shop around, as pricing and contract terms can differ. A clear understanding of the setup process helps you avoid surprises and get your system running smoothly.
- Choose a Provider: Decide whether to buy directly from Clover.com or from a reseller. Compare quotes and contract terms from multiple sources if possible.
- Select Your Plan and Hardware: Based on your business type and volume, choose the right software plan (Starter, Standard, etc.) and the necessary hardware (Flex, Mini, Station).
- Complete the Application: You will need to complete a merchant account application. This involves providing details about your business, ownership, and estimated sales volume.
- Receive and Set Up Your Device: Once your account is approved, your hardware will be shipped. Setup is generally straightforward. You’ll unbox the device, connect it to the internet, and follow the on-screen instructions to activate your account.
- Configure Your System: Use the Clover Dashboard to add your inventory, set up employee accounts, and customize your settings. Download any necessary apps from the App Market to complete your setup.
Evaluating Clover’s Customer Support
Customer support for Clover can be confusing. The quality of help you receive often depends on your sales provider. If you purchased your system directly from Clover.com, you will receive support from them. However, if you bought it from a bank or another reseller, that company is your primary point of contact for support. This can lead to very different experiences. Some resellers offer excellent, personalized service, while others may be unresponsive or unhelpful. It is vital to ask about the support structure before signing a contract.
Clover itself provides a 24/7 phone support line for urgent issues, like a system outage. They also have an extensive online help center with articles and tutorials. For less urgent matters, you may be directed to your reseller. Before committing, research the reputation of the specific reseller you are considering. Check their customer reviews regarding support quality, as this will be your main lifeline when you need assistance.
The Final Verdict: Is Clover Right for Your Business?
Clover presents a compelling package with its attractive hardware and feature-rich software. It is an excellent choice for small to mid-sized businesses that want an all-in-one, easy-to-use POS system. Retail shops, quick-service restaurants, and service businesses can all benefit from its integrated approach to payments, inventory, and analytics. If you value modern aesthetics and are willing to pay for a streamlined, out-of-the-box solution, Clover is a strong contender. The App Market also provides great flexibility for future growth.
However, Clover is not for everyone. The system locks you into a single hardware and processing environment, which can be restrictive. Businesses on a tight budget might find the hardware and monthly fees too high. The biggest warning is the reseller model. A bad contract with a dishonest reseller can lead to expensive, long-term problems. If you want full control over your merchant account and the ability to shop for the lowest processing rates, you might prefer a solution that separates the POS system from the payment processor. Ultimately, Clover is a great tool, but you must do your homework and choose your provider wisely.
