Top Payment Gateways for BigCommerce: What to Choose in 2024

When running an online store, ensuring smooth and reliable payment processing is crucial to your business’s success. Choosing the right payment gateway can be the difference between a seamless checkout experience and abandoned carts. If you're using BigCommerce, you've likely already experienced its robust features. However, when it comes to payment gateways, the options can feel overwhelming. That’s where this guide, created with insights from a leading BigCommerce Development Company, comes in—to help you navigate the top BigCommerce payment gateway options so that your customers' transactions are as smooth as your website's design.

Understanding Payment Gateways and Their Importance

Before diving into specific options, it's essential to understand what a payment gateway does and why it's so important for your BigCommerce store. Simply put, a payment gateway is the bridge between your customers and the bank. It securely captures payment information, ensures there are enough funds in the customer's account, and authorizes the payment so that you can get paid.

But, why is this important? Well, it’s like the checkout lane at a grocery store. A slow, cumbersome checkout process leads to frustrated customers, and frustrated customers often don’t come back. On the other hand, a fast, smooth process leaves your customers happy and more likely to return. And who doesn't want happy, returning customers?

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Payment Gateway

Before selecting a payment gateway, you should consider several factors to ensure it meets your business needs:

• Security: This is non-negotiable. Customers need to trust that their payment information is safe.

• Fees: Different gateways have varying fee structures. Understanding these can help you avoid unexpected costs.

• Integration: Make sure the gateway integrates seamlessly with BigCommerce, so you don't end up pulling your hair out trying to get things to work.

• Customer Support: When things go wrong (and sometimes they do), you want a provider that offers solid support.

• User Experience: A complicated or slow checkout process can lead to cart abandonment. The simpler, the better.

Top BigCommerce Payment Gateway Options

Now that we've covered the basics, let's dive into some of the top payment gateway options for your BigCommerce store.

1. PayPal

Overview: PayPal is one of the most recognized payment gateways globally, making it a safe bet for any online store. Customers can pay using their PayPal balance, credit, or debit cards.

Key Features:

• Trusted Brand: Customers feel secure using PayPal due to its widespread recognition.

• Easy Integration: BigCommerce integrates seamlessly with PayPal, making setup straightforward.

• Buyer and Seller Protection: PayPal offers robust protection for both buyers and sellers.

Considerations:

• Fees: PayPal’s transaction fees are relatively standard but can add up depending on your volume.

• Account Hold Risks: Some users have reported sudden account holds, which can be disruptive.

2. Stripe

Overview: Stripe is known for its developer-friendly tools and its ability to handle a variety of payment types, including subscriptions and on-demand marketplaces.

Key Features:

• Customizability: Stripe’s API allows you to customize your payment processes, which is great if you have specific needs.

• Global Reach: Accept payments in over 135 currencies.

• Recurring Billing: Ideal for subscription-based services.

Considerations:

• Technical Knowledge Required: While powerful, Stripe can require a bit more technical know-how to fully leverage its features.

3. Authorize.Net

Overview: Authorize.Net is one of the oldest payment gateways, providing secure payment solutions to small and medium-sized businesses.

Key Features:

• Security: High-level security features to protect your business and customers.

• Reliability: Known for its uptime and reliability.

• Customer Information Manager: Save customer payment details for future transactions.

Considerations:

• Setup and Monthly Fees: Authorize.Net charges a setup fee and a monthly fee in addition to transaction fees.

4. Square

Overview: Square started as a simple way to accept payments via mobile devices but has since grown into a full-fledged payment processor.

Key Features:

• Ease of Use: Simple setup and user-friendly interface.

• In-Person and Online Payments: Great if you have both a physical and online presence.

• No Monthly Fees: Only pay transaction fees with no monthly charges.

Considerations:

• Limited International Availability: Square is primarily available in the U.S., Canada, Japan, Australia, and the U.K.

5. BigCommerce Payments

Overview: BigCommerce Payments is a built-in solution powered by PayPal, offering a streamlined payment experience.

Key Features:

• Integrated Solution: No need to deal with third-party integrations.

• Discounted Fees: Competitive rates, especially for PayPal transactions.

• Simplified Management: Manage everything from your BigCommerce dashboard.

Considerations:

• Limited Flexibility: While convenient, you may miss out on some of the customization options available with other gateways.

Optimizing Your Payment Gateway for Better User Experience

Choosing a payment gateway is just the first step. To truly ensure smooth transactions, you should also optimize the payment process on your BigCommerce store.

1. Mobile Optimization

With more customers shopping on mobile devices, it's crucial to ensure that your payment process is mobile-friendly. A responsive design, simple navigation, and easy-to-use payment forms are key.

2. Streamlined Checkout Process

Reduce the number of steps it takes to complete a purchase. The fewer clicks, the better. Consider offering guest checkout to cater to first-time buyers who might be hesitant to create an account.

3. Multiple Payment Options

Offering a variety of payment options can help reduce cart abandonment. Some customers prefer to use credit cards, while others might lean toward PayPal or alternative payment methods like Apple Pay or Google Pay.

4. Transparent Fees and Policies

Hidden fees are a major turn-off. Be upfront about shipping costs, taxes, and any other fees right from the start. This transparency can build trust and encourage customers to complete their purchases.

Common Challenges with Payment Gateways and How to Overcome Them

Even with the best payment gateway, issues can arise. Here’s how to tackle some common challenges:

1. Transaction Declines

Sometimes, payments get declined even when the customer has enough funds. This could be due to various reasons, like mismatched billing information or issues with the bank. To minimize this, ensure your payment forms are clear and error-free.

2. Chargebacks

Chargebacks occur when a customer disputes a charge. While they can be frustrating, maintaining clear communication, offering good customer service, and keeping thorough transaction records can help reduce their occurrence.

3. Payment Gateway Downtime

No payment gateway is immune to occasional downtime. It's essential to have a backup gateway in place so your customers can still make purchases even if your primary gateway is temporarily unavailable.

Working with a BigCommerce Development Company

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all these options and considerations, it might be time to work with a BigCommerce Development Company. These companies employ BigCommerce developers and BigCommerce experts who can help you select, set up, and optimize the right payment gateway for your store. Not only can they handle the technical aspects, but they can also provide ongoing support to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Selecting the right payment gateway for BigCommerce is a critical decision that impacts your store’s user experience, security, and overall success. By considering the factors mentioned above and evaluating the top options, you can find a gateway that suits your business needs. And remember, you don’t have to go it alone a BigCommerce Development Company can provide the expertise and support to make the process seamless.

Investing in the right payment gateway now can save you headaches down the road, ensure customer satisfaction, and ultimately drive more sales for your online store.