Bunch of different questions...

Sorry... new here. Check the FAQ, but didn't find what I was looking for. Will be using the latest version of Zen. We are not up and running yet.

1. Can shipping be configured so that live shipping rates to the various zones are shown?

2. Can we link directly to our USPS account?

3. Can we configure inventory to update automatically?

4. Can we accept credit cards without having to go through Paypal? Is there a gateway needed?

5. Can bulk discount options be calculated and applied to price automatically? Can this be done by category as opposed to by product?

6. Can I add a chat option for customers to chat with us if they need support?

1. Yes, depending on the shipper.

2. Not sure what 'link directly' means. There is a USPS module in Zencart.

3. That's built-in.

4. Yes. Authorize.net, Paypal Pro and First Data are included, and there are mods available for others.

5. a. Yes, by using an add-on. b. I don't know.

6. Again, an add-on.

Browse (or search) your way through the Free Software Add Ons (link above) to see what's available.

Thanks for the fast response. Are the add-ons generally difficult to eh-hem add on? I'm not a very experienced coder...

Most add-ons come with a readme.txt file with instructions on installation and setup.