PayPal allows merchants to accept payments from websites or email without having a true merchant account. This can be a good solution for high risk merchants, those without credit history, or new/small online businesses. To explore the differences between true and third-party merchant accounts, check out Finding an E-Commerce Payment Processor.
API, Gateway, Shopping Cart or Simple PayPal Integration Tutorials
Once a PayPal merchant solution is chosen, the next step is to integrate it using one of several different methods. PayPal has a great resource with links to PDF guides for instruction on simple, API, gateway, or shopping cart integration.
The PayPal Sandbox on their Developer Central site is useful for testing integration before launching. E-commerce businesses must always test new software and applications before releasing their site to the public, to prevent embarrassing slip-ups and disappointed customers.
User Help with PayPal Integration Issues
Some users still have questions after reading PayPal's help pages and PDF integration guides. PayPayDev.org is an independent forum, sponsored by Superfreaker Studios, dedicated to helping PayPal users with installation and integration issues. Topics covered include PayPal Basics, Subscriptions, JavaScript Button factory and more. Click here to visit the forum for user advice on PayPal integration.
Another option is to choose a pre-integrated shopping cart solution. This is a good choice for those lacking the technical savvy to integrate and troubleshoot their payment processing system.
Online Merchant Account Pre-Integrated E-Commerce Storefront Solutions
ProStores, an eBay company, is one such solution. They offer set-up, promotion and management services for e-commerce owners in need of various levels of help with their business. ProStores.com also has a helpful E-Commerce 101 section with step-by-step instruction and tips on designing a store front, adding products and categories, search engine optimizing an online store, and more.
Zoovy.com's success driven e-commerce technology shopping carts are pre-integrated with PayPal's Express Checkout. Unique features include the ability to operate multiple stores under one inventory control system. A variety of options cater to wholesalers, single or multi-store operations and those requiring supply chain management.
Finding a Certified Developer for PayPal Integration Services
E-commerce owners can search sites like Guru.com or Elance.com for programmers to assist in PayPal integration. Or, visit PayPal Developer Central to search for developers certified by PayPal. These professionals have proven their knowledge in Website Payments Pro and Express Checkout. Developers are listed by location, allowing users to choose a local service provider, if they so choose.
E-commerce websites must also integrate their payment gateway. For more information, read E-Commerce Payment Gateway Solutions.
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