How to Use a Cash Register Online

Cash registers take on a new look as e-commerce businesses gain momentum.

Traditional cash registers were developed after the Civil War and have gone through dramatic changes over the years from manual format to allowing products to be scanned. With the introduction of e-commerce, businesses now have the option of using online cash registers, which are shopping cart programs that tally the total of the items then connect customers seamlessly to a credit card payment processor.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet Connection
• Credit Card

Instructions

1. Browse through the online business's website. Most websites have a page dedicated to each product, with photographs and details on the product, pricing, options, and availability. Some websites are more advanced than others, but they generally provide the customers with the information they need in order to make the purchase. Go through the Online Shopping Tips provided by the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse in order to learn which features to look out for on e-commerce websites.

2. Add products to your shopping cart. Whenever you come across a product that you are interested in, click on the link or button next to the product to add the item to your shopping cart. Most websites will display a link or button that says "Buy Now" or "Add to Cart." After you add the product to your shopping cart, you may be taken to a page that gives you the option to continue shopping.

3. Begin the checkout process. When you are ready to make the purchase, websites generally have an image of a shopping cart or a link to the shopping cart in the upper-right hand corner of your monitor. If you do not see it there, search around the perimeter of the screen for a phrase such as "View Cart" or "Check-Out."

4. Follow the website's check-out instructions. Most websites will now request you to enter in your basic information, such as your name, billing address and shipping address. If the item will be shipped instead of downloaded, you will be asked to select a shipping method if a choice is available.

5. Review the details of your order. Sometimes after entering your credit card information, the website will provide you a summary of the item or items to be purchased before charging the credit card. Review the list carefully to ensure all the information is correct before clicking "Okay" or "Proceed."

6. Examine your purchase confirmation email. After you place an order, you should receive an email automatically within minutes or hours after making the purchase. Verify that the information within the email is correct. If there is a mistake, call customer service to fix or make a change. This can be compared to checking your receipt from a traditional cashier as you are leaving the store.

References

• Privacy Rights Clearinghouse: Online Shopping Tips,