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High-volume processing
For high-volume merchants, small differences in pricing structure and fixed fees can materially impact total cost.
A good evaluation looks beyond a single advertised rate and focuses on effective rate drivers and operational needs.
What matters most
- Pricing structure: how markup is applied (basis points, per-transaction fees)
- Fixed fees: PCI, gateway, statement fees, minimums
- Card mix: rewards/corporate cards and card-present vs card-not-present
- Funding: funding timeline and settlement reliability
- Support: chargeback handling, reporting, and responsiveness
Practical evaluation approach
- Calculate effective rate using actual statements
- List every fixed monthly fee and per-transaction fee
- Confirm assumptions about card-present vs card-not-present volume
- Review chargeback/dispute workflow and timelines
Related: Interchange-plus, Pricing models
Compliance note: ClearRate Payments is not a bank. Payment processing services are provided through sponsoring banks and processing partners.