Cash registers come in various sizes and prices, with basic models offering transaction printouts and product code storage. Cheaper models are portable, while larger businesses may benefit from models with department and product code memory, barcode scanners, and alphanumeric keyboards. Security features include locking drawers and password protection. Thermal printers save money in the long run, while tape receipts are better for tax purposes.
No matter how small or large your business, if you deal with the public, at some point you will need to purchase a cash register to track customer transactions. Cash registers come in a wide variety of sizes, designs and prices. The basic cash register does calculations and offers transaction printouts, but a cash register is so much more than a fancy calculator. Even the simplest model can store product codes, making it easier to track sales and taxes.
The cheapest cash register model uses C batteries or an AC converter and is small enough to fit in a briefcase. If you need a simple cash register to track sales or if you frequently change business locations, this is your best choice. If you own a larger business, consider investing in a cash register that allows you to enter department and product codes into the machine’s memory. This saves time and reduces the possibility of human errors when dealing with a large volume of daily transactions.
For even more convenience, look for a heavy-duty cash register with an attached scanner that can read barcodes. This significantly speeds up the verification process, as very little information needs to be manually entered into the machine. Department stores usually prefer an alphanumeric cash register, with a dual-function keyboard that allows the user to enter both numbers and letters into the machine. This allows the user to type product names, text messages, and custom phrases.
Another thing to consider when choosing a cash register is the security features. Larger registers have a locking drawer in which to keep money and checks. If you need added security, look for a cash register with password protection, where the locking drawer can only be opened when an authorized teller enters the correct code.
Finally, keep your tax needs in mind. Thermal print and tape cash registers allow you to keep receipts for personal tax and accounting purposes. Thermal printers start out more expensive, but since you never need to buy an ink cartridge—they run on heat rather than ink—the savings add up in the long run. However, receipts printed with tape last longer and read more clearly, so they might be a better idea if you’re saving them for tax purposes.
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