pmac - 12:53 am on Jun 12, 2001 (gmt 0)

Actually, they probably vary from country to country! I didnt even think of that. I shopped hard and heavy and pay 2.65% plus $25.00 USD for a terminal rental. When I owned a pure brick and mortar business in the same field, I was paying 2%. The Canadian banks wanted 3.5%, and when I decided to price my goods in USD (I am Canadian), I found the U.S banks far more receptive to e-commerce. A few drawbacks though. Most merchant account providers want a non-refunable application fee of between three and four hundred fifty dollars. I guess this kinda primed me for Y! and LS. :-)
It depends on sales volumes as well. If you fall below your projected volumes, then the percentage you pay can be reviewed.

I found the issue of payment processing to be one of the most frustrating, and challenging parts of setting up my e-commerce business. Stick with it Paulclarke, and good luck.