Can I Buy A Used Clover POS? How To Avoid Scams
If you're looking to buy a used Clover POS system, the pitfalls are numerous. There are better ways to find a new Clover machine.
- Buying used Clover POS hardware is usually not the best idea because it can not be reprogrammed.
- You may also find yourself locked into expensive, long-term contracts if you don't purchase from a reputable Clover reseller
- Buying directly from Clover will give you the best contract terms and is generally safer than buying from a third party like Amazon or eBay
You can buy a used Clover POS… but you shouldn’t.
Below, we’ll explain why buying a used Clover machine is risky, how to avoid Clover merchant account scams, and which alternative POS systems to consider if a brand-new Clover POS doesn’t fit your budget.
Table of Contents
Can I Buy A Used Clover POS?
Clover devices are available secondhand, but buying used is almost always a bad idea.
Each Clover machine is permanently tied to the original merchant account, and without those account details, the device won’t activate. Buying from marketplaces like Amazon often means getting locked into an expensive, non-negotiable contract.
And no, you can’t factory-reset or reprogram a Clover to make it work with a new account.
Why You Can’t Reprogram A Clover Machine
Unlike traditional card terminals, Clover devices cannot be reprogrammed. Each machine is permanently locked to the merchant services provider (MSP) that originally sold it, so you can’t buy a used Clover POS and have your own MSP activate it.
The issue is simple: you’re stuck with the provider tied to that device — and MSPs vary wildly. Some offer fair pricing and good support; others pile on hidden fees, long contracts, and poor service.
Being locked into the wrong provider can quickly become a nightmare for any small business.
Commonly Used Clover POS Scams & Tactics
Two scams come up again and again:
- Cheap Clover hardware bundled with predatory contracts on Amazon or similar sites — usually long-term, high-fee agreements with steep early termination penalties.
- Used Clover devices sold on eBay without disclosing that the hardware is unusable because Clover machines can’t be reprogrammed.
Where To Buy A Clover Machine
If you want a Clover POS, buy it from a reputable Clover reseller with transparent rates and fair contract terms — not from random online marketplaces.
Providers like Dharma Merchant Services and National Processing are solid options if you prefer interchange-plus pricing or cash discount programs.
Once you choose a provider, make sure you negotiate your merchant agreement. Your quote will depend on factors like your business size, time in business, sales methods, average ticket size, and your personal credit.
Common Clover Equipment For Sale: Pricing Guide
Clover is sold through banks, merchant service providers, and retailers like Sam’s Club, and prices can vary widely. The costs listed below reflect MSRP, not what every provider will charge.
Clover Equipment Costs
| Clover Station Solo | Clover Station Duo | Clover Mini | Clover Flex | |
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| Pricing | $1,799 | $1,899 | $849 | $749 |
| Hardware Included | Station, cash drawer, receipt printer | Station, customer-facing display, cash drawer, receipt printer | Clover Mini with built-in receipt printer and scanner (cash drawer sold separately) | Clover Flex with built-in receipt printer and scanner (cash drawer sold separately) |
| Monthly Hardware Payment Plan (If you can’t purchase in full) | $174 – $179/month | $180 – $185/month | $45 – $135/month | $40 – $125/month |
Clover Not For You? Here Are Some Good POS Alternatives
Clover is one of the best POS systems, but it’s not ideal if you want flexible hardware, the ability to reuse equipment, or the option to reprogram devices later.
If you’re looking for systems that offer more hardware freedom or easier switching between merchant accounts, check out our guide to the best Clover alternatives for small businesses.
Is Buying A Used Clover POS Right For Your Business?
Used Clover hardware is rarely a good idea. If you want Clover, buy from a trusted reseller or Clover.com to avoid activation issues and bad contracts.
If you’re exploring broader payment options, take a look at our picks for the best merchant account providers — most offer POS hardware and online selling tools, too.








