The cost to send money depends on international transfer fees and exchange rates as well as your chosen delivery method and destination. When you send money internationally from the US, the total cost typically includes a transfer fee and an exchange rate.
Understanding these components helps you compare your options and choose the transfer method that fits your cost expectations and the needs of your receiver.
Cost factors
Two primary factors impact international money transfer cost: transfer fee and exchange rate.
Transfer fee
The transfer fee is the upfront amount charged to process your transaction.
Fees can vary based on:
The amount you send
Your chosen destination country
Your selected delivery method
Your payment method
When you send with MoneyGram, you’ll see the fee displayed, so you know the cost upfront.
Exchange rate
The exchange rate determines how much local currency your recipient receives for each US dollar sent. Even small differences in exchange rates can impact the final payout amount.
To understand this more clearly, review How exchange rates affect your money transfer.
How delivery method affects cost
The payout option you select may influence the total cost of your transfer.
For example:
Cash pickup
Bank deposit
Debit card
Home delivery (where available)
Mobile wallet
Some delivery options may have different fee structures depending on location. If you’re comparing international money transfer cost, read Cash pickup or bank transfer: Which is better? to better understand these two popular delivery methods.
How your destination country impacts cost
Transfer costs vary by country due to local regulations, currency conversion differences, and operational expenses. Transfers to different regions may carry different fee and exchange rate structures.
If you’re new to the international transfer process, review How to send money internationally from the US before confirming a MoneyGram transfer.
Transfer speed and cost
In some cases, faster delivery options may have different costs. Transfer timing depends on multiple factors. To understand how speed and delivery interact, visit How long do international money transfers take?
How to estimate the total cost before sending
Before you confirm your transfer, MoneyGram will show you a full breakdown of your costs. You should be able to see:
The transfer fee
The exchange rate
The amount your recipient will receive
Reviewing this information carefully helps avoid surprises and allows you to compare options before finalizing your international money transfer.
How to reduce money transfer costs
When you’re preparing to send an international money transfer, you can manage your total cost by:
Comparing delivery methods
Reviewing exchange rates before confirming your transfer
Ensuring your recipient details are accurate to avoid delays
Understanding how fees and exchange rates work together can help you maximize the amount your recipient is able to get.
Common Questions
What fees are included in an international money transfer?
Most transfers include a transfer fee and an exchange rate applied to currency conversion. The total cost depends on your amount sent, destination country, delivery method, and payment type.
Are exchange rates included in the transfer cost?
Yes, exchange rates are included in the total cost of your transfer. The exchange rate impacts how much local currency your recipient receives.
Is it cheaper to send money to certain countries?
Costs vary by destination due to local regulations, currency differences, and operational factors. Reviewing the full cost breakdown before confirming your transfer can help you send with confidence. What fees are included in an international money transfer?
Compare your options
Send with confidence
Understanding how international money transfer costs work can help you make informed decisions. With MoneyGram, you can review the full cost — including fees and exchange rate — before confirming your transfer.
This publication is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, financial, or other professional advice from MoneyGram or its affiliates. Services may vary by location and are subject to applicable laws and regulations.