الدفع عند الاستلام ولا الدفع الإلكتروني تعرّف الفرق واختار الأنسب لمتجرك

Sahl Monday,26 May 2025

At the beginning of any e-commerce project, a merchant faces an important question:
What payment method should I offer to customers?
Should I limit myself to "cash on delivery"? Or should I focus on "electronic payment" from the start?
The Saudi market is witnessing significant changes in the culture of e-commerce. With the diversity of customer segments, it has become essential to understand the difference between the two methods and determine which one best suits your business.
Let's break it down together:
1. Cash on Delivery: What is it and when is it effective?
Cash on Delivery (COD) means that the customer pays the order value upon arrival, often in cash or sometimes via a point-of-delivery device.
This option is useful if:
• Your audience doesn't have much confidence in electronic payment.
• You sell simple or low-priced products.
• You deliver to remote areas or customers who don't use cards.
Its advantages:
• It provides convenience and confidence to the customer, especially if they are ordering from you for the first time.
• It makes the customer feel they won't lose anything if the product doesn't arrive.
Disadvantages:
• Higher likelihood of order rejection during delivery.
• Causes losses if the customer suddenly changes their mind.
• It burdens the delivery team and delays the collection process.
2. Electronic Payment: The Fast, Modern Option
Electronic payment means that the customer pays through a payment gateway using their bank card, Mada, Visa, Apple Pay, or other digital methods.
This option is beneficial if:
• You want to streamline your operations and reduce operational costs.
• Your audience is tech-savvy and accustomed to shopping online.
• You operate widely within Saudi Arabia or even abroad.
Advantages:
• Reduces order cancellation rates.
• Facilitates accounting and transaction documentation.
• It creates a professional image and increases customer confidence in your store.
Disadvantages:
• Some customers are uncomfortable with prepayment.
• You may encounter minor connectivity or maintenance issues if you don't choose a good service provider.
3. Which Saudi Market is Preferred?
In Saudi Arabia, there's a clear shift toward electronic payments, especially after recent changes and significant support from official entities such as Sadad and Mada, in addition to campaigns encouraging digital transformation.
However, cash on delivery is still popular among a segment of the population, particularly those unaccustomed to electronic payments or living in areas less connected to banking services.
4. Which is most suitable for your store?
The answer depends on the type of products you offer, your target audience, and your technical readiness.
If you're just starting out:
• Offer both methods to cover all possibilities.
If your audience is young and tech-savvy:
• Focus on electronic payments, and have a fast and easy gateway such as Tap or HyperPay.
If you're targeting areas outside of major cities:
• Don't dispense with cash on delivery, as it may be the only option for some customers.
5. Can you combine both methods?
Definitely, and that's the ideal option.
Let the customer choose, and give each customer the experience they're most comfortable with. However, make sure you clearly list all the details on the "Payment Options" page in your store.
6. How can "Sahl" help you with this decision?
At "Sahl," we won't let you choose a payment method without first understanding the nature of your store.
We help you install electronic payment gateways compatible with the Saudi market, prepare your store to accept cash on delivery if required, and provide you with advice based on real-life experiences.
Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the smart thing is to choose the one that serves your customers and achieves your goals.
Whether you prefer cash on delivery or electronic payment, the most important thing is to work on providing a convenient and smooth experience for every customer.
Ready to start your store with integrated payment options?
Contact us at "Sahl," and let us help you choose the right one from the start!