What makes up the transfer cost?
In practical terms, total transfer cost equals visible service and funding fees, plus the exchange-rate effect, plus any intermediary or recipient charges. The clearest measure is the difference between what leaves your account and what arrives, expressed for the same route and delivery method.
Why the exchange rate matters
Providers can structure currency conversion differently. Do not compare the fee in isolation: check the rate shown, the amount converted and the expected recipient amount. Market rates move, so compare alternatives close together rather than relying on an older example.
Funding method and route
Paying from a bank account may have a different cost and processing time from using a card. Destination currency, amount and local payment rails can also change the quote.
- Sending and receiving currencies
- Bank, card or other funding method
- Transfer amount
- Standard or faster delivery
- Potential intermediary or recipient-bank charges
Before you confirm
Read the final confirmation screen and check the recipient details carefully. Review the expected delivery window, refund or cancellation conditions, transfer limits and any identity checks that may delay a time-sensitive payment.
How to compare Wise with another provider
Request a quote from each service for the same amount and recipient currency. Record the total sender cost and final recipient amount. If one quote uses a promotion, compare the standard terms too so you understand the likely cost of future transfers.
Bottom line
There is no single Wise fee that applies to every transfer. Your route, amount, funding method and currency determine the live quote. Check the final recipient amount and current official terms before confirming.