1) Pick the right rail for your goal

Not all rails settle and cost the same.

• Bank/SWIFT transfers have high limits and global reach, but they are slower and mayresult in intermediary fees.
• ACH/SEPA/Faster Payments (where supported) are less expensive and faster, but theyare limited to specific corridors.
• Mobile money/cash pickup is fast in the last mile; keep an eye on caps and ID rules.
• Card payout/Wallet: Near-instant with fees varying by corridor and card scheme.
  

Pro tip: Determine whether the provider accepts OUR/SHA/BEN fee options.

2) Understand the actual all-in cost.

Compare the FX + fees + recipient landing amount, not just the headline fee.

• FX source: mid-market or markup (even 1-2% bites on large transfers).
• Hidden costs include intermediary/receiving bank deductions, weekend FX markups, andrefund fees.
• Rate lock: Some providers guarantee your rate for a limited time; use it when markets arevolatile.
• DCC warning: If asked to "charge in your card currency," decline and pay in therecipient's currency to avoid additional markups.
  

3) Time the transfer

Timing affects both rate and speed

• Cut-offs and holidays: Settlement pauses in either country may add days. Avoid late-Friday messages.
• Time zones: Aim to land during local bank hours to speed crediting.
• Market volatility: Prefund at a favorable rate; schedule delivery for due dates (rent,tuition).
• Compliance buffers: Larger or first-time transfers may result in checks; send a day earlierthan expected.
  

4) Validate recipient details twice.

Typos account for the majority of delays and returns.

• Confirm your name, account number/IBAN, SWIFT/BIC, routing codes (ABA/IFSC/SortCode/NUBAN), bank name, and country format.
• Please include the correct payment reference or purpose code, which is required in manycountries.
• For a new payee, send a small test payment first.
• Keep the proof/MT103 or confirmation handy for tracing and contacting the recipient's bank.
  

5) Stay scam-proof

Common red flags include pressure to act now, requests for passwords/2FA, odd QR "collect"prompts, and "help move funds for a commission."

• Only use licensed providers, and check the URL/app before entering any information.
• Enable 2FA, set per-transfer limits, and create allowlists for frequent recipients.
• Never share one-time codes. Banks and PSPs won’t ask for them.

Never mail cash.
It’s untraceable, uninsured, and often undeliverable. Use regulated digital rails that provideproof of payment and consistent delivery.

Pre-send checklist

• I compared FX, fee, and landing amount between 2-3 providers.
• No holiday/cut-off friction is expected at destination.
• The beneficiary's name, account, SWIFT, and IBAN all perfectly match.
• The purpose code/reference is correct.
• 2FA is enabled; I will save the receipt/MT103 after sending.

FAQs

What’s the cheapest way to send?
Select the option that provides the lowest total cost (FX + fees) and a reliable estimated arrivaltime. Compare before sending, not after.
‍
How long will it take?
Bank/SWIFT transfers can take 1-3 business days, while wallet/card/mobile money transferscan take minutes. Checks may cause delays with first-time or high-value transfers.
‍
Why did my recipient get less?
Most likely, there will be intermediary or receiving bank fees, as well as foreign exchange takenat the destination.
‍
Can I cancel or reverse a transfer?
Speed is important. A recall might be effective if funds haven't arrived; get in touch with supportright away and provide your reference number, MT103.
‍
Want transparency without the guesswork?
Consider OneDosh for a clear total cost + ETA before sending, real-time alerts, downloadablestatements, and sensible controls for safer cross-border payments.