The market for sending money internationally is growing rapidly, and consumers have a great number of options that ever before for sending money. People who send money frequently or regularly have figured out that there are options outside of banks and money transfer companies that are just as fast, safe, and effective when it comes to sending money. Technology is making the process of sending cash faster and easier than ever before, and the competitive landscape among companies who facilitate money transfers is leading to better pricing, service, and efficiency for customers. Regardless of the method you choose for your transfer, here are some time and money saving tips that you should be aware of.

1. Shop Around! There are more companies providing money transfer services than ever before. The options that come to mind first are probably not the fastest or most convenient anymore. Taking time to do your homework can save money and help to educate you on some of the newer options available.
2. Safety First! There are several companies willing to send your money for you and each comes with its own level of security ensuring the protection for your funds. Understand the timetable anticipated for making the transfer so that you can monitor the situation and contact the service you’re using if something goes awry. Find out what steps have been taken to make sure your money stays safe.
3. Read the Fine Print! Even though it’s fairly easy to send money, this is still a financial transaction, and as such there are terms and conditions that you agree to when you initiate the transfer. Are there hidden fees that are not disclosed on the surface? Do the fees vary depending on which country the money is being sent to? What is the exchange rate being used, and is it fair for both you and the recipient? What options will your recipient have for accessing the money being sent? The details are available, but they may take a little research.
4. Plan Ahead! If making an international money transfer is not a regular activity for you, and you plan on doing so very infrequently, then just about any method will work. However, if you plan on making regular money transfers, you should choose a method that is easily repeated and convenient for you. For instance, websites such as atmcash.com allow you to send a prepaid debit card, Mastercard’s Maestro card, to the recipient via Fed Ex. Once the recipient has received the debit card, money can be added online again and again, making this a sustainable way to send money.
5. Communicate! Whatever method you use to send money, there should be a way for you to contact the company and ask any questions. The convenience of the Internet in making money transfers does not mean that you have to sacrifice good customer service. Remember that you have many options, and if you feel like your needs as a customer are not being met, it’s easy to find a company that will provide satisfactory service.