Complete Merchant Solutions Review

Complete Merchant Solutions is a leading company that provides a complete array of electronic payment solutions. Established in 2008, CMS specializes in offering robust payment routing and processing solutions for global businesses. Headquartered in Orem, Utah, this company is well-regarded in the fintech industry for its innovative approach to payment processing, which covers credit and debit card processing, ACH, eCheck, and mobile payments.

Company Overview

Established in 2008 by David Decker, Kyle Hall, and Trever Hansen, Complete Merchant Solutions has seen significant expansion and achievement. The main objective of the company was to simplify payment processing for businesses, guaranteeing efficiency and security. CMS has greatly increased its range of services and coverage area over time, establishing a strong reputation in the payment solutions industry. In 2016, private equity investors GCP Capital Partners and Performance Equity Management acquired the company, boosting its growth and market visibility.

Complete Merchant Solutions is driven by a mission to deliver world-class payment processing solutions that empower businesses in the digital economy. The company aims to provide businesses of all sizes with secure, reliable, and user-friendly payment services, allowing them to concentrate on growth and improving customer satisfaction. CMS aims to be at the forefront of payment technology, continuously innovating to meet the evolving needs of its clients.

Core Values and Principles

The core values of CMS are centered around customer-centricity, innovation, integrity, and excellence. The company is dedicated to:

Customer-Centricity: Prioritizing the needs and satisfaction of its clients by providing tailored payment solutions and exceptional support.

Innovation: Continuously enhancing and expanding its technology to offer cutting-edge payment processing solutions.

Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency and trust in all business interactions.

Excellence: Striving for excellence in all aspects of operations, from service delivery to customer support.

These values underscore CMS’s commitment to delivering superior payment processing services, fostering long-term partnerships with clients, and maintaining a leadership position in the fintech industry.

Services Offered

Complete Merchant Solutions provides a comprehensive range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses in today’s digital economy. Their offerings encompass payment processing solutions, Point of Sale, e-commerce solutions, merchant accounts, and customer support, ensuring a seamless and efficient payment experience for their clients.

Payment Processing Solutions

Credit and Debit Card Processing: CMS facilitates the acceptance of all major credit and debit cards, allowing businesses to offer their customers convenient payment options. Their secure and reliable card processing services ensure smooth transactions and minimize the risk of fraud.

ACH and eCheck Processing: CMS provides businesses with a cost-efficient option to standard payment methods through its Automated Clearing House (ACH) and eCheck processing services. These services allow merchants to efficiently manage recurring billing and electronic payments.

Mobile Payments: With the rise of mobile commerce, CMS provides mobile payment solutions that allow businesses to accept payments through smartphones and tablets. This flexibility enhances the customer experience and caters to the growing demand for mobile transactions.

Online Payment Gateways: CMS’s internet payment gateways easily connect with e-commerce platforms, allowing companies to securely handle online payments. These gateways offer different payment options, guaranteeing a seamless online shopping checkout experience.

Point of Sale

Features and Benefits: CMS’s POS systems are designed to streamline business operations, offering features such as inventory management, sales tracking, and customer relationship management. These systems help businesses improve efficiency and customer service.

Integration with Existing Systems: CMS guarantees that their POS systems can seamlessly integrate with current business software and hardware, reducing interruption and improving performance.

Hardware and Software Options: CMS provides a variety of hardware and software options to suit different business needs, from compact mobile POS systems to comprehensive in-store setups.

E-commerce Solutions

Payment Gateways: CMS offers robust payment gateways that integrate with online stores, providing secure and efficient payment processing for e-commerce businesses.

Shopping Cart Integration: CMS’s offerings allow for easy integration with commonly used shopping cart software, guaranteeing a hassle-free and customer-friendly e-commerce experience.

Security and Fraud Prevention: CMS prioritizes the security of online transactions by implementing advanced fraud detection and prevention measures, safeguarding both businesses and their customers.

Merchant Accounts

Account Setup and Management: CMS assists businesses in setting up and managing merchant accounts, ensuring a smooth onboarding process and ongoing support.

Customized Solutions for Different Business Sizes: CMS tailors its services to meet the unique needs of businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises.

Fees and Pricing Structure: CMS offers competitive and transparent pricing, with detailed information on fees for various services, helping businesses manage costs effectively.

Customer Support

Availability and Responsiveness: CMS is known for its reliable customer support, available 24/7 to assist businesses with any issues or inquiries.

Support Channels (Phone, Email, Live Chat): CMS provides multiple support channels, including phone, email, and live chat, ensuring that help is always accessible when needed.

Quality of Service: CMS’s commitment to high-quality service is reflected in their prompt and effective support, helping businesses maintain smooth operations and resolve any payment-related issues efficiently.

In summary, Complete Merchant Solutions offers a robust suite of services that cater to the diverse payment processing needs of businesses, backed by strong customer support and advanced security measures.

Pricing and Contract Terms

Complete Merchant Solutions offers a transparent and competitive pricing structure designed to accommodate businesses of various sizes and industries. Understanding the pricing and contract terms is crucial for businesses looking to manage costs effectively while leveraging CMS’s comprehensive payment solutions.

Overview of Pricing Structure

CMS offers a transparent pricing structure that enables companies to anticipate and control their expenses for payment processing. The company provides a range of pricing options designed to meet different business requirements, guaranteeing that every customer gets the best value solution for their individual needs. CMS works to keep competitive rates consistent across all its services, although pricing may vary depending on services and transaction volume.

Types of Fees

CMS’s pricing structure includes several types of fees, which are standard in the payment processing industry:

Transaction Fees: These fees are charged per transaction and typically vary based on the type of transaction (e.g., credit card, debit card, ACH). Transaction fees are a percentage of the transaction amount plus a fixed fee.

Monthly Fees: CMS may charge a monthly service fee that covers access to their platform, customer support, and various account management tools.

Setup Fees: Some plans may include a one-time setup fee to cover the cost of establishing the merchant account and integrating the necessary payment processing infrastructure.

Additional Fees: Depending on the specific services and features required, there may be additional fees such as PCI compliance fees, gateway fees, and fees for additional features or advanced fraud protection.

Contract Length and Terms

CMS offers flexible contract terms to meet the diverse needs of its clients. While many merchants prefer month-to-month agreements for greater flexibility, longer-term contracts are also available and may come with discounted rates or additional benefits. It’s essential for businesses to review the contract terms carefully and understand their commitments before signing.

Cancellation Policy and Associated Fees

It is essential for any business evaluating a payment processor to have a clear understanding of the cancellation policy. CMS usually offers specific instructions on ending contracts. Companies with month-to-month subscriptions can typically terminate without paying large fees, whereas those with extended contracts might have to pay penalties for ending early. These fees are meant to pay for the expenses related to terminating the service earlier than the agreed term. It is advisable to discuss these terms with representatives from CMS to prevent any surprise fees.

Features and Benefits

Complete Merchant Solutions offers a robust array of features and benefits designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses. Their services are crafted to ensure efficiency, security, and scalability, making them a preferred choice for many merchants.

Competitive Rates and Transparent Pricing: CMS is known for its competitive pricing structure, which is transparent and straightforward. This allows businesses to manage their costs effectively without worrying about hidden fees or unexpected charges.

Advanced Security Measures: CMS considers security to be of utmost importance. They follow PCI compliance rules and use advanced fraud detection methods to safeguard sensitive customer data and deter fraudulent behavior. These security measures assist companies in upholding trust and dependability with their clientele.

User-Friendly Interface and Tools: CMS offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies the payment processing experience. Their tools are designed to be intuitive and easy to use, enabling businesses to manage their transactions efficiently without requiring extensive technical knowledge.

Scalability for Businesses of All Sizes: Whether you are a small startup or a large enterprise, CMS provides scalable solutions that grow with your business. Their flexible services ensure that you can adjust your payment processing capabilities as your business needs evolve.

Integration with Various Business Software: CMS smoothly combines with various business software such as accounting systems, e-commerce platforms, and CRM tools. This capacity for integration guarantees that companies can improve efficiency and productivity by combining their payment processes with other important business operations.

In summary, Complete Merchant Solutions delivers a comprehensive suite of features and benefits that cater to the needs of businesses, ensuring secure, efficient, and scalable payment processing solutions.

Security and Compliance

Complete Merchant Solutions places a strong emphasis on security and compliance, ensuring that all transactions are secure and meet industry standards. This commitment to security is reflected in several key measures and protocols.

PCI DSS Compliance: CMS follows the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), a collection of security guidelines aimed at safeguarding card details before and after a financial transaction. This adherence guarantees that CMS abides by top standards for safeguarding payment data and upholding a secure transaction environment.

Encryption and Tokenization: CMS employs advanced encryption techniques to protect sensitive data during transmission. Additionally, tokenization is used to replace sensitive card information with a unique identifier or token, which further reduces the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.

Fraud Detection and Prevention Measures: CMS uses advanced systems to detect and prevent fraud, aiming to recognize and reduce potential fraudulent actions. Continuous monitoring of transactions is done to identify suspicious activities, ensuring both merchants and customers are safeguarded against fraud.

Regular Audits and Updates: To maintain high security standards, CMS conducts regular audits and updates its security protocols. These audits ensure compliance with the latest industry regulations and standards, and the updates incorporate the latest security technologies and practices.

Overall, Complete Merchant Solutions puts security and compliance first by following PCI DSS guidelines, utilizing strong encryption and tokenization, implementing advanced fraud detection techniques, and undergoing regular audits and updates. This thorough method guarantees that all transactions are safe, dependable, and adhere to industry regulations.

Technology and Innovation

Complete Merchant Solutions leverages cutting-edge technology to provide advanced payment processing solutions that meet the evolving needs of businesses. Their commitment to technological innovation is evident in several key areas.

Use of Cutting-Edge Technology: CMS utilizes the latest technologies to ensure efficient and secure payment processing. This includes high-speed transaction processing, robust data encryption, and real-time transaction monitoring. These technologies help CMS deliver reliable and swift payment solutions that cater to the fast-paced nature of modern business.

Innovations in Payment Processing: CMS leads the way in advancements in payment processing. They constantly work on adding and combining new features to improve the performance and safety of their offerings. Businesses can enhance their payment processes and boost overall efficiency by utilizing advanced fraud detection algorithms, seamlessly integrating with different business software, and implementing customizable payment solutions.

Mobile and Contactless Payment Solutions: Recognizing the growing trend towards mobile and contactless payments, CMS offers comprehensive solutions that support these payment methods. Their mobile payment solutions enable businesses to accept payments via smartphones and tablets, providing flexibility and convenience for both merchants and customers. Additionally, contactless payment options, such as NFC and QR code payments, cater to the increasing demand for touch-free transactions.

Future Plans and Technological Advancements: CMS is committed to staying ahead of technological trends and continuously enhancing their services. They plan to further integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve fraud detection and customer service. Additionally, CMS aims to expand its range of payment solutions to include emerging technologies such as blockchain and cryptocurrency payment processing.

User Experience

Complete Merchant Solutions places a strong emphasis on providing an excellent user experience through intuitive platforms and comprehensive support.

Ease of Use of CMS Platforms and Tools: CMS is designed with user-friendliness in mind, offering platforms and tools that are easy to navigate. Their interfaces are intuitive, making it simple for merchants to manage transactions, monitor sales, and access detailed reports. The seamless integration of their tools with various business operations ensures that users can efficiently handle their payment processing without needing extensive technical expertise.

Merchant Feedback and Testimonials: Merchants who utilize CMS have provided mainly positive feedback. Users frequently emphasize the dependability of the platform and the excellence of customer service. Testimonials often highlight the convenience of managing transactions and the quick assistance offered by the CMS team. The positive reviews emphasize CMS’s dedication to providing a top-notch user experience that caters to a variety of businesses.

Onboarding Process and User Training: CMS offers a smooth onboarding process that helps new users get started quickly and efficiently. Their comprehensive user training programs ensure that merchants understand how to utilize all features of the platform effectively. Training resources include detailed documentation, video tutorials, and one-on-one training sessions, providing users with the knowledge and confidence to maximize the benefits of CMS’s services.

Pros and Cons

Complete Merchant Solutions offers a variety of advantages and a few limitations that potential users should consider.

Pros:

Wide Range of Services: CMS provides a comprehensive suite of payment processing solutions, including credit and debit card processing, ACH and eCheck processing, mobile payments, and online payment gateways. This extensive range ensures that businesses of all types can find the services they need.

High Security Standards: CMS places a strong emphasis on security through PCI DSS compliance, advanced encryption, and strong fraud detection measures. These characteristics safeguard sensitive information and lower the chance of fraudulent activities, establishing it as a reliable option for companies.

Excellent Customer Support: CMS is known for its responsive and reliable customer support. With 24/7 availability through various channels like phone, email, and live chat, businesses can receive timely assistance whenever issues arise.

Flexible and Scalable Solutions: CMS offers solutions that are scalable, catering to small startups as well as large enterprises. Their flexible plans and services can grow with the business, ensuring that payment processing needs are met as the business evolves.

Cons:

Pricing Details Could Be More Transparent: While CMS offers competitive rates, the details of their pricing structure are not always fully transparent. Potential users might find it challenging to understand the full scope of fees involved without direct consultation.

Limited International Support: CMS mainly targets the U.S. market, which could restrict its value for companies with large international operations or aspirations to grow globally.

Potential Downtime During Updates: Like any technology service, CMS may experience downtime during system updates and maintenance. This can temporarily disrupt payment processing, which might affect businesses during peak times.

In conclusion, Complete Merchant Solutions offers a strong and safe payment processing system with great assistance and adaptable services. Nevertheless, individuals interested in using CMS for their business should take into account the clarity of pricing, restricted global assistance, and potential interruptions during updates.

Industry Reputation and Customer Reviews

Complete Merchant Solutions holds a mixed reputation in the payment processing industry. The company, founded in 2008 and headquartered in Orem, Utah, has garnered attention for both its comprehensive service offerings and some operational challenges.

Overview of CMS’s Reputation in the Industry

CMS is highly respected for its wide variety of payment options, such as credit and debit card processing, ACH and eCheck processing, mobile payments, and online payment gateways. The company’s growth has been acknowledged by being featured on the Inc. 5000 list, which showcases the fastest-growing private companies in America. Nevertheless, operational issues and customer complaints have affected the company’s reputation.

Analysis of Customer Reviews and Feedback

Customer reviews of CMS present a diverse picture. On platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and various merchant review sites, CMS has received both praise and criticism. Positive feedback often highlights the company’s reliable customer support, the efficiency of its payment processing services, and the user-friendly nature of its platforms. Many merchants appreciate the ease of use and the variety of features offered by CMS.

However, there are also negative reviews that highlight problems with transparency in pricing and contract terms. Frequent complaints involve surprise fees, challenges ending contracts, and occasional misunderstandings with independent sales representatives. These problems indicate a requirement for improved transparency and uniformity in customer engagements and contract statements.

Common Praises and Complaints

Praises:

Reliable Customer Support: Many customers commend CMS for its responsive and helpful customer service.

User-Friendly Platforms: The ease of navigating and using CMS’s tools is frequently praised by users.

Comprehensive Service Offerings: Customers appreciate the wide range of payment solutions provided.

Complaints:

Transparency Issues: Some users have reported concerns about the clarity of pricing and hidden fees.

Contract Termination Difficulties: There are occasional complaints about challenges in terminating contracts and associated fees.

Sales Agent Miscommunications: Some negative feedback points to misleading information provided by independent sales agents.

In short, although Complete Merchant Solutions is known for its strong range of services and helpful customer support, it also encounters difficulties with transparency and consistency in customer interactions. Potential clients should carefully examine contract terms and clarify all fees in order to prevent any potential misunderstandings.

Competitor Comparison

Complete Merchant Solutions competes with several major merchant service providers in the payment processing industry, including Square, PayPal, Stripe, and First Data (now Fiserv). Each of these companies has its strengths and weaknesses, and CMS stands out in specific areas.

Comparison with Other Major Merchant Service Providers

CMS provides a wide range of payment solutions comparable to what industry leaders like Square and PayPal offer. Square and PayPal are famous for being user-friendly and compatible with small businesses, whereas CMS is recognized for offering flexible solutions suitable for small startups and big corporations. While Stripe is known for its easy-to-use API and worldwide presence, CMS is more focused on serving the American market with strong customer support and customized services.

Strengths and Weaknesses Relative to Competitors

Strengths:

High Security Standards: CMS implements advanced security measures, including PCI DSS compliance and robust fraud detection, which are on par with industry standards.

Comprehensive Customer Support: Unlike some competitors, CMS offers 24/7 customer support through various channels, ensuring timely assistance.

Flexible and Scalable Solutions: CMS provides scalable solutions that can grow with businesses, a feature that is particularly beneficial for companies planning to expand.

Weaknesses:

Limited International Support: Unlike Stripe, which has a strong international presence, CMS primarily serves the U.S. market, limiting its appeal to global businesses.

Transparency in Pricing: Some users have reported a lack of clarity in pricing and unexpected fees, a disadvantage when compared to competitors like Square and PayPal, which are known for their transparent pricing structures.

Unique Selling Points of CMS

Customized Solutions: CMS offers tailored payment processing solutions that can be customized to meet the specific needs of different business sizes and industries.

Advanced Fraud Prevention: CMS’s advanced fraud detection and prevention measures provide a higher level of security, which is a significant advantage for businesses handling sensitive customer information.

In-Depth Customer Support: The comprehensive support system, including training and onboarding, ensures that businesses can efficiently use CMS’s services from the outset.

In summary, while CMS competes with major players in the payment processing industry, its high security standards, comprehensive support, and customizable solutions provide it with a competitive edge, particularly for U.S.-based businesses looking for reliable and scalable payment solutions.

Conclusion

CMS specializes in providing a variety of secure payment processing solutions along with strong customer support. Although there is room for improvement in aspects such as pricing transparency and international support, CMS is still a solid option for American companies in need of dependable and flexible payment solutions. It is recommended that potential users carefully examine the terms of the contract.

FAQs

What types of businesses can benefit from Complete Merchant Solutions?

CMS serves a variety of businesses, from small startups to large enterprises, across different industries.

How does CMS ensure the security of transactions?

CMS employs advanced security measures including PCI DSS compliance, encryption, and fraud detection tools to ensure the safety of transactions.

What kind of customer support does CMS offer?

CMS provides 24/7 customer support through phone, email, and live chat, ensuring that merchants receive timely assistance.