What is online ordering?

Online ordering is a feature in a POS system (cash register system) that lets your guests send orders directly online – for example through your website or an app. It can be for takeaway, table service or pre-ordering food. When the guest places an order online, it is usually sent straight to your POS system and on to the kitchen, so staff can start preparing it right away.

Online ordering is not just an advantage for the guest, but also for you as a restaurant or café owner. It reduces order errors, saves staff time and creates a better customer experience – especially at busy times. If your business offers takeaway or wants to shorten waiting times for table service, online ordering can be an effective solution.

Example from a restaurant

Picture a busy Friday evening. Your café is full, and the phone keeps ringing with takeaway orders. Instead of taking each order manually, guests can now go to your website and order directly. The order goes automatically into your POS system and is sent to the kitchen printer. Your staff no longer have to answer the phone, and the guests’ food is on its way faster.

Why does online ordering matter when you use a POS system?

When online ordering is connected to your POS system, you get a streamlined order process where everything runs automatically:

– Orders are registered directly in the system – without errors

– Stock levels are updated automatically

– Guests get a quick confirmation and an expected pick-up time

This not only makes your workflows more reliable and efficient, but also gives your guests the experience of a modern, service-minded business.

When online ordering is combined with other digital solutions such as an online payment system, an online booking system or an online reservation system, you get a complete solution that covers the guest’s whole journey – from booking to payment.

How does Flexybox use online ordering?

With Flexybox, online ordering is integrated directly into your POS system, so your guests can order food online quickly and easily. The order is sent to the kitchen instantly, and staff can focus on preparing the food without unnecessary waiting or incorrect manual entries. It makes you more accessible to your guests and ensures a faster, more error-free order process.

Frequently asked questions

Online ordering is about ordering food and drinks online, while online table booking (or reservation) is about reserving a table at your restaurant. Many POS systems – such as Flexybox – offer both features.

No, not necessarily. With systems like Flexybox, you can offer online ordering through your own website without the guest having to download an app.

Yes. Some systems let guests order directly from their table via a QR code, which saves time and reduces the need for manual service.

With Flexybox, setup is simple and user-friendly. You get help with both integration and setup, so you can get started quickly.