If you have ever asked yourself how to get ATM installed at my shop, you are on the correct website. Having an ATM in your business can help increase foot traffic, allow added customer convenience, and provide additional revenue for you from surcharge fees. And working with a partner like Atlantic Processing means you don’t have to try to figure it all out on your own.
In the following paragraphs, I’ll guide you through the steps you should take, as well as potential pitfalls to watch out for, and why a professional service is so often necessary, and how it helps you avoid common mistakes.
Key Takeaways
- You need the correct location, power setup, connectivity, and required permits
- There are at least three ownership models that you can follow.
- Installation, processing, and maintenance. Your pro ATM provider does it all!
- The revenue comes from surcharge fees plus more in-store spending.
- With such peace of mind, Atlantic Processing’s turn-key ATM programs help keep things simple.
Why You’d Like an ATM in Your Shop
Before you wade into logistics, it’s good to know the upside.
- Additional revenue: You get surcharge fees each time someone uses the machine to withdraw cash.
- Higher in-store spending: A significant proportion (20–25%) of the money that they withdraw will be spent inside your store.
- Customer convenience & retention: Having an ATM on premises prevents customers from leaving to find one.
- Fewer card fees: You pay nothing for cash transactions because they don’t go through credit card processing.
If your shop has the foot traffic and local demand for cash, an ATM can pay for itself fairly quickly
First Things First: Will Your Shop Work?
Not every shop is ideal. Here is what to check first:
Foot traffic and customer profile: Will your customers likely need cash? Retail outlets, convenience stores, or areas near nightlife often do better.
Space & visibility: The ATM should not be hidden in some corner, but easily visible and reachable.
Power: You will need a steady electrical input; a switchless outlet would be better for a dedicated circuit.
Network/Connectivity: You will require either an Ethernet internet connection or a good wireless (GSM/LTE) failover.
Security & physical integrity: Decent lighting, cameras, and solid mounting to the wall or floor.
Local permits/zoning laws: Some cities require certain permits to operate or may have compliance rules ( e.g, accessibility / ADA rules in the US).
If your store ticks those boxes, it’s time to proceed.
Choose Your ATM Acquisition Model
Model | Who Owns the ATM / Handles Cash & Repairs | Your Involvement / Pros & Cons |
Full Service Placement | Service provider owns, operates, and maintains the ATM | You provide space and earn a revenue share or flat fee. Low risk and minimal work. |
Partnership Program | Provider supplies the ATM; cash handling may be shared | Higher revenue share for you. Shared responsibility for maintenance and cash handling. |
Ownership | You purchase, maintain, and load the ATM yourself | Highest earning potential but requires full responsibility, including maintenance and cash management. |
Here’s a brief but realistic rundown of what it would take for me to get an ATM installed at my shop:
Spot selection & site surveying: Go for the spot and do a site survey.
Measure distances from a power outlet, make sure there’s enough clearance for ADA accessibility (if needed), and review lines of sight.
Secure power & connectivity: Wiring to run it (usually 110 or 220V, depending on location). Do you need to lay network cables or install wireless modems?
Mounting & anchoring: The ATM is bolted to the floor or wall with robust anchor bolts. This prevents theft or tampering.
Software & processing setup: The provider installs the ATM software, connects it to payment networks, and ensures that the communications are secure.
Load cash & test: Drop an initial cash load, do some test transactions to ensure withdrawals are functioning and that receipt printers work, connection is available, etc.
Go live & monitor: Until tests are clear, the ATM is unavailable to customers. After that, you need monitoring — so you can figure out when cash is low, or any errors appear.
Maintenance & support: Preventive maintenance is essential (e.g., monthly or quarterly). And you’ll need a protocol for breakdowns, repairs, and parts replacement.
This is a thing that you can do yourself, but there are often overlooked steps when you DIY, and those might result in downtime or something non-compliant. That’s why many shops team up with pros like Atlantic Processing, who simplify setup and maintenance.
Costs, Revenue & Profitability
Here’s a guide to what you can expect:
Modern ATMs must be EMV-compliant, meaning they support chip transactions and meet current security standards. Machine cost: A compliant ATM model typically starts around $1,000 and increases depending on features.
- Installation cost: Service man hour, wiring, mounting fee, etc.
- Cash loading & cash handling costs: You still need someone to provide and administer the funds.
- Maintenance & repair: Parts wear out, software needs updates, etc.
- Transaction processing charges: The ATM operator or network might get a piece.
On the revenue side:
Surcharge per withdrawal: You determine the surcharge (for example, $2–$3 or a similar amount in local currency).
Volume of usage: The more people, the better.
Shop spend-through: A portion of the cash that’s taken out will be spent in your shop.
Merchant’s savings on card fees: You save a lot in card processing charges when customers use cash.
A strategically placed ATM can frequently pay for its purchase cost within months and then generate passive income in perpetuity. That’s the beauty of it.
Tips & Tricks (What to Avoid)
- If your jurisdiction requires it, ensure that your machine is ADA-compliant.
- Install alarm systems, CCTV, and good lighting to minimize tampering.
- Put up signage so customers are made aware it’s there (don’t hide it).
- Tend cash and ensure it never runs out.
- Keep your software updated and be on top of network security.
- Approach contracts with caution: look for hidden fees or revenue splits.
A lot of that can be worrying about operational stuff, and it is Atlantic Processing’s job to take care of all that, so you don’t have to wonder.
Why Atlantic Processing Instead of DIY?
- You can keep safe from any expensive mistakes in wiring, security, or software setup.
- Domestically, we have a vast network and decades of experience in ATM relationships.
- For that, you get faster deployment and less stress.
- We can customize which of your shops works best with the acquisition model
Conclusion
Modern ATMs must be EMV-compliant, meaning they support chip transactions and meet current security standards. If you’re considering how to get ATM installed at my shop, it’s important to know that a compliant ATM model typically starts around $1,000 and increases depending on features.
Let Atlantic Processing handle the heavy lifting. Whether you’re after full service, partnership, or complete ownership — we’ve got it all. Contact us today or visit our website to get started with your ATM installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a special permit to install an ATM?
In many jurisdictions, yes — zoning rules, building permits, or ADA compliance may apply. Check with your local city or regulatory body.
- Can I install the ATM myself to save money?
Yes, if you have technical skills. But many businesses underestimate costs and mistakes—partnering with a professional is safer.
- How much can I make from an ATM?
Depending on foot traffic, many locations earn a few hundred to several thousand dollars monthly.
- Who handles the cash loading?
Depends on the model. In full ATM placement, the provider does it. In a partnership, either you or the provider may bring cash. In full ownership, it’s your responsibility.
- What happens if the ATM breaks down?
You need a maintenance plan or support contract. Atlantic Processing includes repair and upkeep options to minimize downtime.