Guest Check-In Just Got Way Easier—and Faster!

Hello, Handbid Community!‍

We get it—guest check-in is the first impression of your event. It's critical to make it smooth, efficient, and professional. And when it comes to credit card capture, we know you need it to be fast, secure, and easy for your team.

‍

Here’s what we’ve heard from you:

• You need reliable, secure devices to encrypt and capture credit card data.
• Existing solutions work but often come with hefty price tags, require special connectors, or are just plain clunky.
• Newer technologies like Tap-to-Pay and Bluetooth-connected terminals not only streamline the process but also make it easier to scale up check-in stations.

‍

Well, we listened—and acted.

We’re excited to announce our latest update, which integrates Bluetooth card readers for iOS and Android, as well as Tap-to-Pay functionality on both iPhone and Android devices. For those working from laptops or desktops, auction managers can also connect Stripe’s Wi-Fi-enabled POS readers to capture cards effortlessly.

Why the Move to Stripe Terminals from Magtek?

You may already know that Stripe has been Handbid’s trusted payment processor for over 12 years, providing our clients with fast, secure, and reliable payment solutions. However, this recent move to Stripe's credit card readers is a deliberate step forward. Why now?

We’ve been waiting for the right technology—something that’s not just secure and reliable, but also connectionless and cost-effective.  The older credit card readers required special connectors, clunky configurations, and came with a hefty price tag to purchase or rent. That simply didn’t align with our vision of making event check-ins smooth and scalable for our clients.

With Stripe’s Tap-to-Pay technology and affordable Bluetooth terminals, we now have the perfect solution: a streamlined, affordable, and flexible way to capture credit card payments that eliminates unnecessary equipment and setup complexity.

This move isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about staying ahead, delivering cutting-edge solutions that work for you and your guests.

How Does It Work?

Empower Your Check-In Agents: 

Anyone on your team can now capture cards with their own iPhone or Android device using the Handbid app—no additional equipment required. Just tap the card to the back of their device, and you’re done.

Technology Made Affordable: 

For added flexibility, you can economically purchase Stripe M2 Bluetooth readers. These wireless devices cost a fraction of the MagTek readers we previously offered.

Auction Manager Perks: 

Using a laptop or desktop? Connect a Stripe BBPOS or S700 terminal via Wi-Fi. Once linked to your network, you can easily accept card taps or insert them.

‍

Is It Secure?

Absolutely. Stripe’s terminals are edge-to-edge encrypted (E2EE), and even more secure point-to-point encryption (P2PE) is available for those who need it. Rest assured, your guests’ payment data is in safe hands.

‍

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re already a Handbid client, congratulations—this functionality is live on all plans and ready to use today!

If you’re not yet a Handbid customer, let’s change that. Your guests are ready for a smoother, faster check-in experience, and your team is ready to ditch outdated, fussy card readers.

Ready to upgrade? Let’s get started. Your events deserve it, and so do your guests.