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Compare money transfer services in Canada

Compare Canadian money transfer services on the total cost to send, including the exchange rate margin most providers do not disclose.

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6 services compared on what it actually costs to send $500, including the exchange rate margin. Most providers earn more on the rate than the fee, so the service advertising no fee is often the most expensive one.

Common questions

Why is a zero-fee transfer sometimes the most expensive?

Because the provider makes its margin on the exchange rate instead. If the mid-market rate is 1.00 and you are given 0.96, that four percent gap on $500 is $20, considerably more than a $5 transfer fee. Always compare the amount that arrives, not the fee.

What is the mid-market rate?

The real exchange rate between two currencies, the one you see on Google. Nearly every provider offers something below it, and the gap is their margin. A provider that publishes its margin openly is doing something the rest do not.

How fast can money arrive?

Minutes for cash pickup, hours to a couple of days for a bank deposit, depending on the destination and the payout method. The fastest option is usually the dearest.

Is it cheaper to send larger amounts?

Usually. Fixed fees shrink as a proportion, and several providers reduce the exchange margin above certain thresholds. Sending one larger transfer often beats several small ones.

How do money transfers work?

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Money transfers work by simply deducting the required amount from your account, and placing it into the recipient's account. There is no need for physical cash or cheques; a money transfer can be sent within Canada or abroad, and in Canadian dollars or other currencies.

How much does it cost to send money abroad?

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The cost to send money abroad varies depending on the provider you use to transfer the money, how much you're sending, and if there are currency conversions to take into account. Banks are an expensive way to transfer large amounts or foreign cash, and can charge anything from $20 to $100 per transaction. Online transfer companies are typically the most affordable option, charging a set low fee.

How can I transfer money online?

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Transferring money online is easy; you can do so via your bank, if you use online banking. Do this by logging into your account and clicking the option to transfer money. If you're hoping to use a dedicated money transfer company, again very little effort is required. You can create an account within minutes, and link it to your bank account. As long as you have your recipient's details, you can then decide on the amount you're sending, and click 'send.' The money will be deducted from your account, and will arrive in the recipient's account within a few days.

How do money transfer companies work?

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Money transfer companies work by charging a small fee for each money transfer they handle. This fee is deducted from the funds sent and funds their business.

How do I send money abroad?

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Sending money abroad has never been easier, thanks to the rise in online money transfers. You can use an online money transfer company, or sometimes your bank, to send money to people outside of Canada. You'll need their contact and banking information to set it up.

How do I pick the best money transfer provider?

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Picking the best transfer provider is often a case of finding the most cost-effective for your needs. Consider the fees and exchange rates offered by different providers to see who is the cheapest; then consider the processing time, and how quickly you need the money to arrive at its destination. Lastly, check the small print for any restrictions, such as limits on how much you can send. All of these factors taken together will inform you which provider best suits your needs.

Is it safe to transfer money online?

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Online banking transactions, including online money transfer services, are processed in Canada by the Automated Clearing Settlement System and the Large Value Transfer System. These agencies have risk-control mechanisms and government oversight to ensure secure financial data transmission. This means that it is considered safe to send money online and you should not be worried about your personal information; but it is important to check you have the recipient's correct banking details, to ensure the money is deposited in the right place!

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