Payline Data vs Helcim for Ecommerce: Which Should You Use? (Insights From Our Underwriting Desk) | Payment Gods Blog

Payline Data and Helcim are payment processing solutions that enable businesses to accept online payments efficiently. Founded in 2009, Payline Data offers flexible pricing models for a wide array of businesses. Helcim, established in 2007, emphasizes transparent interchange-plus pricing, specifically appealing to small and medium-sized merchants. This article compares their pricing, features, and support to determine which is best for your ecommerce business.

What are Payline Data and Helcim?

Payline Data and Helcim are distinct payment processing companies. Payline Data aims to provide adaptable payment solutions, while Helcim focuses on a transparent, volume-based pricing structure for merchants.

How do Payline Data and Helcim's pricing models compare?

Payline Data predominantly offers an interchange-plus pricing model for many businesses, and a flat-rate pricing option for smaller merchants. Helcim exclusively uses an interchange-plus model, detailing fees as the direct interchange fee, card network assessments, and a small markup fee per transaction.

Payline Data Pricing Details

Payline Data provides competitive rates that vary based on the business type.

E-commerce Businesses

  • Starting at interchange + 0.20% + $0.10 per transaction.

Retail Businesses

  • Starting at interchange + 0.10% + $0.05 per transaction.

High-Volume Businesses

  • Custom pricing solutions are available to meet specific needs.

They also integrate options for PCI compliance, fraud prevention tools, and a virtual terminal for managing phone orders.

Helcim Pricing Details

Helcim’s interchange-plus model is designed to reduce fees as the sales volume of a business increases.

Transaction Volume Tiers

  • For transactions up to $50,000 per month: Interchange + 0.20% + $0.10 per transaction.
  • For transactions between $50,001 and $250,000 per month: Interchange + 0.18% + $0.09 per transaction.
  • For transactions above $250,000 per month: Interchange + 0.16% + $0.08 per transaction.

These rates apply to major card types, including Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. American Express transactions have slightly higher rates, typically interchange + 0.30% + $0.15 per transaction. Helcim also includes a complimentary payment gateway and various integrations to facilitate e-commerce payments. For businesses with specialized needs, like those in high-risk categories, exploring tailored solutions such as a High Risk Merchant Account for Used Car Dealerships may be necessary, as both providers might have limitations for certain industries.

What features do Payline Data and Helcim offer for ecommerce?

Both Payline Data and Helcim provide critical features for managing online transactions, though their approaches to additional services differ.

Payline Data Ecommerce Features

Payline Data offers a robust set of tools specifically designed for ecommerce payments.

Key Features

Merchants seeking specific integration guidance can consult resources like Online Payment Processing for Gift Shops.

Helcim Ecommerce Features

Helcim focuses on delivering an all-in-one platform with numerous integrated features.

Platform Offerings

  • Helcim Commerce: A comprehensive platform that includes CRM, inventory management, and a virtual terminal to manage business operations.
  • Online Store Builder: Provides tools for merchants to create and personalize their online storefronts.
  • Hosted Payment Pages: Offers secure, customizable pages for accepting credit card payments.
  • Developer APIs: Supports custom integrations and advanced payment solutions for businesses with specific technical needs.

For businesses requiring specialized payment gateway functionalities, exploring relevant topics like Payment Gateway for Plastic Surgeons might be beneficial.

Which processor offers better customer support?

Both Payline Data and Helcim prioritize robust customer support, but they differ in their accessibility and personalized service options.

Payline Data Customer Support

Payline Data offers dedicated account managers, providing a significant advantage for businesses seeking personalized assistance and long-term relationships.

Support Channels

  • Phone support during business hours.
  • Email support with typical responses within 24 hours.
  • Live chat for immediate assistance.

They are recognized for their responsive service, often resolving customer inquiries promptly.

Helcim Customer Support

Helcim provides in-house customer support through phone and email. While they do not offer dedicated account managers, their support team is highly regarded for its expertise and rapid response times, typically within an hour during business hours.

Self-Service Resources

  • Extensive knowledge base with articles and guides.
  • Video tutorials for visual learners.

Which payment processor is better for your ecommerce business?

The optimal choice between Payline Data and Helcim depends on your specific business requirements, transaction volume, and preference for dedicated support versus an integrated platform. If your business prioritizes competitive interchange-plus rates and values personalized account management, Payline Data presents a strong option. For a robust payment processing solution offering ecommerce payments starting at 1.5% per transaction, with dedicated account management, next-day funding, and transparent pricing without hidden fees, Payment Gods Partner Network is our top recommendation. Consider requesting a Free Quote to explore tailored options for your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is interchange-plus pricing?

Interchange-plus pricing is a transparent model where a merchant pays the direct interchange fee set by card networks, plus a small, fixed markup from the processor.

Do both Payline Data and Helcim support international payments?

Yes, both Payline Data and Helcim facilitate international payments, allowing global transactions, though additional currency conversion fees may apply.

Can I integrate Payline Data or Helcim with my existing ecommerce platform?

Both processors offer integrations with major ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento through their payment APIs and gateways.

What security features do these processors offer?

Both Payline Data and Helcim provide advanced security measures including tokenization, encryption, 3D Secure, and compliance with PCI DSS standards to protect cardholder data.

Is there a contract or commitment period with Payline Data or Helcim?

Helcim typically operates on a month-to-month service basis without long-term contracts, while Payline Data offers flexible contract terms, including month-to-month options, which can be subject to negotiated agreements.