online payment process
The online payment process includes all steps from selecting the payment method in the checkout to payment confirmation — including authorization, authentication, and settlement.
online payment process
The online payment process (also known as the online payment flow) describes the entire sequence of an electronic payment in e-commerce — from selecting the payment method to the final credit on the Comerciante account.
The typical process: (1) Customer selects payment method in checkout → (2) Payment data is transmitted to the payment gateway → (3) Authorization request to acquirer and card network → (4) Issuer verifies and authorizes → (5) Payment confirmation to Comerciante and customer → (6) Settlement: Pay-out to Comerciante.
For Comerciantes, the conversion rate and the cart abandonment rate in the online payment process are critical key performance indicators. Optimization levers include: fewer form fields, offering preferred payment methods, enabling guest checkout, minimizing loading times, and transparent cost display before the final click.
Online payment process examples
A customer selects TWINT at checkout. They scan the QR code, confirm in the app, and the payment is processed in 3 seconds.
A customer pays by credit card. 3D Secure requires confirmation via banking app. After confirmation, the order confirmation appears.
A shop operator optimizes the payment process: guest checkout, Apple Pay as the first option, shipping costs visible before checkout — the abandonment rate drops by 20%.
Online Payment FAQ
What is an online payment process?
The online payment process includes all steps of an electronic payment in e-commerce: from the selection of the payment method through authorization to payment confirmation and payout.
How can I optimize the online payment process?
Offer preferred payment methods, enable guest checkout, reduce form fields, display shipping costs early, and minimize checkout loading times.
Why do customers abandon the payment process?
Common reasons: preferred payment method is missing, unexpected costs (shipping, fees), mandatory registration, slow loading times, lack of trust, or technical issues.
What happens technically during an online payment?
The payment data is transmitted in encrypted form to the payment gateway, which forwards it to the acquirer. The acquirer requests authorization from the issuer via the card network. Upon approval, the amount is reserved and later settled (settlement) and paid out.
