posted on December 5, 2001 08:30:14 PM new
I don't usually accept international bidders, but I had a weak moment with the holidays and all and accepted one from Northern Ireland.
My question to all of you who do accept international payments is will my bank charge me for cashing a bank draft from there? Does it depend on the country and/or bank it's from? Do you pass that cost along to the Buyer?
I recall reading a thread a while back regarding this but of course I don't recall any specifics.
I would appreciate any international sales/shipping advice you would like to share!
posted on December 6, 2001 12:28:12 AM new
MY bank DOES charge extra ($30.00) and UP to process FOREIGN "cheques!"
So...don't take them!
GOOD pmt methods are:
1) International Postal MO's -- ya can cash them free at any PO!
2) MO's (IN USD) drawn on a USA bank -- they have the routing numbers down on the bottom and have a USA bank name on them -- most Canadians can get these.
3) BidPay Money Orders -- the BUYER pays for these & the compant send you a WesternUnion MO from NYS -- very good program!
4) PP & BP -- enuf said!
5) 99% of my international bidders have paid me in good USA greenbacks, although I discourage (for obvious reasons) it!
These options (except for cash) are sent in my EOA email.
posted on December 6, 2001 02:48:20 AM new
I do business in the U.K. (England/Ireland) and have used PayPal everytime to receive payments.
It works just fine, No problem for them - No problem for me.
I charge an extra $3.00 for time involved with the shipping, customs etc. Although the rules are basic - you still have to research every country, everytime for new restrictions and banned items. Then theres different custom forms depending on weight and/or value.
7 pounds to England with the works cost about $43.00 shipping.
Postage
Insurance
Return Receipt
+ 3.00
posted on December 6, 2001 08:41:53 AM new
amercian express intl money order if he can visit an office there.
wiretransfer is one option,if he is willing to do so and make sure he pays for the incoming wire fee your bank charges you.
if you two are using billpoint,it charges 1.00 extra for intl transaction/
credit card is really the fastest and the easiest method if he has a credit card.
posted on December 6, 2001 10:21:30 AM new
My bank accepts anything denominated in US$'s, even a personal check from Canada once. Most of my buyers seem to feel comfortable sending payming in cash, however. It's not a practice I encourage nor even mention, but at amounts of less than $100, you're probably ok.
Terry
posted on December 6, 2001 12:26:50 PM new
There are lots of options, and I hope you made clear US Funds. People overseas can get money orders drawn on US funds, or even Paypal. Good Luck! I have lots of International Bidders, it really does add up. This week, I am sending out packages to Cyprus, Malta and Belgium.
posted on December 6, 2001 12:29:07 PM new
a good 20% of my customers are in Japan or Australia. CASH and Paypal is it. I do get some postal Money Orders from japan in US Dollars. My bank takes them with no fee.
posted on December 6, 2001 06:20:56 PM new
Thanks for all the info! Since this is a newbie buyer, I'll encourage PayPal or the International Money Order. I really appreciate your sharing your knowledge!
Joan
