Ordering System FAQ
18 common questions and clear answers about independent ordering systems for restaurants — costs, setup, features, legal framework and how to switch from Lieferando.
Frequently asked questions about ordering systems
Compact answers for restaurateurs who want to launch or switch to their own ordering system.
What is an ordering system for restaurants?
An ordering system for restaurants is software that lets guests order online directly from the restaurant — through a dedicated web app instead of Lieferando, Wolt or Uber Eats. An independent ordering system saves up to 30% commission per order and gives the restaurant full control over customer data, branding and pricing.
What does an independent ordering system cost?
GastroSystem starts at 0 €/month for up to 30 orders per day. The Professional plan costs 299 €/month net and includes unlimited orders, receipt printer integration, multi-location management, PayPal and Stripe. No setup fee, no commission and no contract lock-in — cancel anytime.
How long does it take to set up an ordering system?
Ready to use in under 5 minutes. Upload your menu, generate a QR code, share the link — done. Most restaurants accept their first order on day one. Our onboarding checklist walks you step by step through menu, payment provider and delivery zones.
Do I need an ordering system if I only have 20 orders per day?
Yes — especially then. With 20 orders per day a restaurant pays over 1,800 €/month in commission on Lieferando (assuming 30 € average order and 10% commission). GastroSystem's free plan covers 30 orders per day — meaning savings from day one with zero risk.
Can I connect my ordering system to my POS system?
Yes. GastroSystem delivers ordering and POS from one source — both are connected from day one. Orders flow automatically into the POS, Z-reports and revenue converge in one dashboard. No separate import, no duplicate entry, no silo.
How is an independent ordering system different from Lieferando?
An independent ordering system has 0% commission, your own customer data, your own branding and full pricing control. Lieferando charges up to 30% commission, owns the customer relationship and lists you next to competitors. Many restaurants run both in parallel and gradually move regulars to their own system.
Does an ordering system work offline?
The POS keeps running in offline mode — existing orders are printed and processed. Online orders require an internet connection to be received. GastroSystem buffers data during short outages automatically and syncs once the connection is back.
Which ordering system is best for a pizzeria, kebab shop or snack bar?
For small and mid-sized hospitality businesses a lightweight, commission-free system like GastroSystem is ideal — with industry-specific templates for pizzerias, kebab shops and snack bars. Key criteria: no commission, fast setup, receipt printer support and delivery zone configuration. Check the commission calculator for a tailored needs analysis.
How do I accept payments through my ordering system?
GastroSystem integrates PayPal and Stripe (credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay) with no transaction fees beyond the plan cost. Cash on delivery or pickup is also supported. Setup runs through the respective provider accounts and takes a few minutes.
Is an ordering system GDPR-compliant?
Yes. GastroSystem is GDPR-compliant: data is hosted in Germany, a data processing agreement is in place, connections are encrypted via TLS and deletion periods are documented. Customer data belongs to the restaurant, not the platform — a crucial difference to Lieferando or Wolt.
Can I switch from Lieferando to an independent ordering system?
Yes — in 5 steps. 1) Sign up free, 2) import your menu, 3) print QR codes and hand them to regulars, 4) run both in parallel as a buffer, 5) cancel Lieferando after 4–8 weeks. Our migration guide walks you through it. Most restaurants fully switch within a month.
How do I win customers for my ordering system without a marketplace?
Three levers: QR codes on tables and packaging, Google Business Profile with an order link, and targeted campaigns for regulars. Many restaurants move 60–80% of their Lieferando customers to their own system within three months — without paid advertising, simply through direct communication at every order.
Do I need a native app or is a web app enough?
A web app is almost always enough. GastroSystem ships a Progressive Web App (PWA) that behaves like a native app: home screen icon, push notifications, offline capability. No app store fees, no review process, no downloads — one click on the link and off you go. Native apps only make sense for chains with tens of thousands of customers.
How high is the commission with an independent ordering system?
0%. An independent ordering system like GastroSystem is commission-free — you only pay the fixed monthly price (0 € or 299 €) plus payment provider fees (about 1.4% + 0.25 € on Stripe). Compared to Lieferando's up to 30%, that's a saving of several thousand euros per month at mid-range order volumes.
What happens if there is a software failure during peak hours?
GastroSystem runs on redundant cloud infrastructure in Germany with a 99.9% SLA. Support responds within 30 minutes on business days. The POS continues to work offline and orders are buffered locally. A 24/7 emergency channel is available for pilot partners and enterprise customers.
Can I manage multiple locations with one ordering system?
Yes. GastroSystem supports chains natively: central menu, location-specific pricing, separate order channels and cross-location revenue reports. Each location has its own dashboard, headquarters keeps the overview. Available from the Professional plan.
Does the ordering system support delivery and pickup at the same time?
Yes. Guests choose between delivery, pickup or dine-in during checkout. Each order type can have its own time slots, minimum order values and pricing. Delivery zones can be configured by postal code or radius — including different delivery fees per zone.
How do I measure the ROI of my ordering system?
The key comparison: former Lieferando commission vs. new monthly price. Example: 500 orders × 25 € × 12% commission = 1,500 € savings per month (minus 299 € GastroSystem). The commission calculator on our site delivers a personalised estimate in 30 seconds.