Question
Google released their new Google Checkout today. You can see more here.
Looks to have some interesting potential, although it can't be utilized as a checkout method. The API must be integrated before the sign in process on your website. Therefore it appears that Google wants complete control over the transaction (initial order >>>fulfillment). This is very similar to Paypal Express website integration, although once the transaction is complete, Paypal gives back to the website owner/online retailer full control.
Taking a brief look at the Developers information, it does appear that a savvy programmer could integrate the API into a workable solution.
See here - This is the PHP version, but there is others.
Here is a list of online retailers currently utilizing the service.
The Fine Print
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Now I heard something about buttons that you could use for individual items. Probably would be an pita if you sell multiples but if you don't or don't sell many, that might work.
I haven't investigated it all yet. I already know I can't do the API thing. I'm not nearly computer literate enough for that. *sigh*
Jo
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I'm just starting to go through it, but it specificicallymentions being compatiable with Googlebase, so hopefully "integration for dummies" will be included there.
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b. Ship orders before charging the buyer’s credit card
You may not attempt to charge the buyer’s credit card until you have shipped the order.
WHAT????
So you've SHIPPED the item, THEN find out it's a bad credit card?
I THINK NOT!
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Originally Posted by Kathleen
WHAT????
So you've SHIPPED the item, THEN find out it's a bad credit card?
I THINK NOT!
Bolding mine:
Kathleen, I don't think so. Take a look at a.)
a. Charge credit cards within 72 hours
When a buyer confirms an order, Google authorizes the buyer’s credit card for the full amount of the purchase. You must charge the buyer’s card within 72 hours of the authorization to guarantee the funds. Funds not captured after 72 hours (including the remainder of partial fund captures), are no longer guaranteed.
I will agree that it sounds a little hokey, I *think* what it means to say:
Since Google's control panel is "controlling" the entire transaction, the customer buys the goods, Google authorizes the purchase and guarantees the funds and the payee has 72 hours to ship. Once shipped, the funds are processed.
I would guess the problem with that would be back orders and or custom merchandise that might take longer than 72 hours to ship? Then what?
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Originally Posted by forktender
Bolding mine:I would guess the problem with that would be back orders and or custom merchandise that might take longer than 72 hours to ship? Then what?
You should ask Google direct - they are usually pretty fast at answering as they will likely include the answer in the revised Google Checkout FAQ (a work in progress).
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Originally Posted by indyattic
I'm just starting to go through it, but it specificicallymentions being compatiable with Googlebase, so hopefully "integration for dummies" will be included there.
I just did my first bulk upload to Base that includes the "Google Checkout" option and it seems to be working just fine. If you're uploading to Base via a .txt file, then under the payment_accepted attribute, simply include "GoogleCheckout" and you'll get a "Buy" button included in your ad.
If you're entering one at a time, edit your payment options to include "Google Checkout".
Something to note:
NOTE: The "GoogleCheckout" payment option can only be specified if you meet all of the following requirements:
1. You are selling a product or vehicle.
2. You have registered for a Checkout account.
3. Price values are included in each of your item details.
4. The price value is between $1.00 and $1999.95.
5. Quantity values are included in each of your item details.
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Cheap vehicle. Can I order 2 new minivans delivered, please?
NOTE: The "GoogleCheckout" payment option can only be specified if you meet all of the following requirements:
1. You are selling a product or vehicle.
2. You have registered for a Checkout account.
3. Price values are included in each of your item details.
4. The price value is between $1.00 and $1999.95.