Mobile POS (mPOS) systems enable cannabis retailers to process transactions using portable devices like tablets or smartphones. These systems include specialized software that supports sales, age verification, payments, and compliance tracking—all optimized for mobility. Think budtenders taking orders anywhere in the store, curbside pickup at the front, and staff-on-standby during busy times like 4/20.
How They Differ from Standard Cannabis POS
Traditional cannabis POS setups typically involve stationary hardware (e.g., countertop terminals, desktop computers) stationed at fixed points of sale. These systems are robust, often tied into the store’s network, integrated with weighing scales and printers, and designed to handle bulk operations reliably.
On the other hand, mobile POS solutions offer:
- On-the-spot sales – Staff can walk the floor, show products on screen, and complete orders anywhere in the store.
- Flexible ID scanning & verification – mPOS often features mobile ID readers, enabling quick age checks at check-in or curbside pickup.
- Quick service capabilities – Ideal during peak periods, mobile setups reduce queues by adding more service spots.
Why They’re Similar
Both standard and mobile cannabis POS systems share these core capabilities:
- Real-time inventory management and compliance tracking (e.g., METRC, BioTrack).
- Age verification, sales limits, tax calculations, and seed-to-sale documentation.
- Integration with payment processing, CRM, loyalty programs, and printing/id scanning hardware.
Is Having Both Worth It?
Yes—here’s why combining both offers a strategic edge:
- Improved customer experience
Mobile POS frees budtenders from the counter, allowing personalized service, product tours, and choice guidance across the floor—enhancing engagement and satisfaction. - Reduced checkout bottlenecks
Adding mobile check-out options means fewer lines and more efficient flow during busy periods. - Support for off-site services
For curbside pickup or delivery, mobile devices let staff finalize sales on location without disrupting in-store operations. - Scalable for expansion
Mobile POS devices are easy to deploy across new registers or locations—whether adding a kiosk, outdoor cart, or multi-location roll-out. - Operational redundancy
If the main POS goes offline, mobile units can keep transactions flowing, offering an essential backup.
Reliable Feedback & Industry Endorsements
- Flowhub is widely praised for its mobile ID verification and floor walk-through capabilities, along with slick inventory tools.
- Cova garners top marks for reliability, 24/7 support, offline-mode, and user-friendly design.
- According to G2 reviews, Meadow ranks highest for ease-of-use, evidence that well-designed systems—including mobile POS—boost satisfaction.
Bottom Line
Mobile POS systems aren’t a replacement for standard POS—they’re an effective complement. They bring flexibility, customer-first service, and business resilience. Any forward-thinking cannabis retailer should invest in both: the station-based POS to anchor compliance and store control, and mobile POS to enhance mobility, customer engagement, and operational agility. In today’s competitive market, covering both fronts is the recipe for efficiency, satisfaction, and growth.