What do I need to go live

[jonsteward]

Hi

I am developing my site using Oscommerce and will be ready to go live in about 4-6 weeks. I want to start getting my hosting etc ready now but I was just wondering exactly what I will need. I am developing the site for a shop in dorset so would I need a Merchant Account with somebody as we are able to accept credit cards in shop. Also does any body have any recommendations for any UK based hosts which offer a cheap hosting solution that would be suitable for my site.

 

Thanks in advanced

 

Jonathan Steward

[burt]

For hosting: www.webhostingtalk.com

For CC collection: Speak to your bank in order to get Internet Merchant Status, then go with a host who can supply SSL - you then collect the CC numbers, and swipe them through your offline machine as and when required.

[blueline]

I can tell you that I just recently signed up for AddAction.net web hosting. They offer a lot at a great price, however, they are located in the US.

 

As far as the credit card thing, Gary said it right. Speak with your bank to see if they offer online merchant services.

 

-Chris

[rubygirl]

I agree to a certain degree regarding capturing the credit card information and then keying it into your terminal - wouldn't advise getting setup for an additional merchant account in real-time until you are processing so many charges that you don't have time to key them in.

 

What I don't agree with however is going to your bank to try and get a merchant account for any business :)

 

Just my 2 cents but keep in mind that banks are GREAT for checking, savings and loans - it's safe = Bank says: Give me ALL of your money and I'll let YOU use it when you need it - this means there is no risk

 

Merchant accounts are not "safe" and risk fee and as a result most banks will charge you more than they should to help cover them for risk. Also most banks will not let businesses that are less than 2 years old, or internet businesses get an account - again - too risky...

 

You need to find a merchant account provider who only does merchant accounts - this way they are the experts and can help you when issues arise - very common occurances - another alternative is to get setup so that you can accept checks via the phone or the web without having to deposit a paper check into your account - it is less expensive and less risky as well.

 

anyway, as for the merchant account - where is the business located? Meaning what city/county is the business bank account? I can send you some links for some reputable people in the industry once i know where the merchant is located.

 

hope it helped and didn't go off on too much of a tangent :oops:

[jonsteward]

Thanks for the help everybody, really appreciated. Our business is located in Poole, Dorset, UK.

 

Also are there any disadvantages to using an American host

[mattice]

Thanks for the help everybody, really appreciated. Our business is located in Poole, Dorset, UK.

 

Also are there any disadvantages to using an American host

 

General rule: Laws apply to the country where the server is located.

So if you're selling x-rated video's of people that are 18 you might want to check State law doesn't say they should be 21 or you'll have a completely free appartment in the US next time you visit which you will only have to share with a giant brute called 'Killer' (or Tiffany whenever he's showing his sensitive side :D )

 

Mattice