How to Switch Payment Processors Without Losing Sales
Switching processors doesn’t have to mean lost orders or website downtime. Here’s how to transition smoothly — even in high-risk industries like kratom.
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When Should You Switch Payment Processors?
- Your current processor doesn’t support your product line
- You’ve received warnings or are at risk of shutdown
- Your rates are too high or unpredictable
- Your payouts are delayed or unreliable
If you’re in a high-risk vertical like kratom, CBD, or delta products, it’s critical to work with a processor that actively supports your industry.
What Could Go Wrong if You Switch the Wrong Way?
- Checkout downtime during the switchover
- Lost sales if your gateway isn’t connected correctly
- Chargebacks from duplicate billing setups
- Compliance issues if your new processor doesn’t fully underwrite your business
All of these issues can be avoided with a proper onboarding process.
How to Switch Payment Processors Without Disruption
- Get approved before canceling your current processor. Never shut down your existing account until your new merchant account is fully live.
- Connect the new gateway first. Platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce allow multiple gateways to be active temporarily.
- Test checkout and emails. Run live test transactions to ensure the handoff works — and that order confirmations send properly.
- Deactivate the old gateway only after confirmation. Once everything is processing under the new provider, you can cancel the old account.
If done correctly, your customers will never notice the switch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to switch processors?
In most cases, 2 to 5 business days. Faster if you have all documentation ready.
Do I need to change platforms?
No. Processors like High Wire can integrate with your existing Shopify, WooCommerce, Wix, or BigCommerce store.
Can I keep the same gateway?
Sometimes. If you’re switching processors but want to keep using Authorize.net or NMI, your rep can transfer the account.
Switch Without Losing Sales
High Wire Payments specializes in smooth transitions. Get onboarded fast with zero downtime and real support from a team that knows high-risk industries.
Zero Downtime
We help you connect the new processor without interrupting live checkout.
No Contract Lock-In
Month-to-month merchant accounts. No penalties or long-term commitments.
Works With Your Stack
We support Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Wix, and custom builds.
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