Start with what the quote includes
Pricing labels are shorthand, not the full agreement. Ask for a complete fee schedule and a sample calculation. In particular, check the treatment of fixed transaction charges, recurring fees and different sales channels.
Ask how a flat rate is applied
A flat-rate proposal generally quotes a bundled transaction price for a defined category of activity. Ask which transactions qualify for that price, what exceptions exist and which charges remain outside it.
Ask how interchange-plus is itemized
An interchange-plus proposal generally separates underlying interchange from the provider’s added charges. Ask exactly which components are passed through, which are marked up and how they appear on your statement.
Compare the same month
Give each provider the same representative activity and request the resulting total with assumptions shown. A label alone cannot tell you which proposal is more suitable or less expensive for your business.
Look beyond the calculation
Consider equipment, support, reporting, renewal and cancellation terms alongside the quoted cost. Confirm details with the provider for your market. Surge does not currently quote a processing rate; its card processing is coming soon.