The Hidden Secret of International Bank Transfers (OUR / SHA / BEN) That Can Save You Money
When sending or receiving an international bank transfer (SWIFT transfer), most people only look at the amount they send and the exchange rate.
However, there is a detail that many people ignore — and it can cost or save you significant money in fees.
This detail is the fee option used in the transfer:
OUR / SHA / BEN
These three options determine who pays the banking fees during an international transfer.
Understanding them can prevent unexpected deductions and help you manage international payments more efficiently.
1. SHA (Shared Fees)
SHA means “Shared”.
This is the most common option used in international transfers.
How it works:
Example:
You send €1,000 using SHA.
-
Your bank charges €10 → you pay €1,010.
-
The receiving bank and intermediary banks may deduct €10–€30.
The receiver might only receive €970–€990.
This is why many businesses sometimes receive less money than expected.
2. OUR (Sender Pays All Fees)
OUR means the sender pays all transfer fees.
How it works:
Example:
You send €1,000 with OUR.
You might pay €1,030 total, but the receiver receives exactly €1,000.
This option is often used for:
-
Business payments
-
Contracts
-
International suppliers
-
Salary payments abroad
It ensures the recipient receives the exact agreed amount.
3. BEN (Beneficiary Pays All Fees)
BEN means the receiver pays all the fees.
How it works:
Example:
You send €1,000 with BEN.
If total fees are €30, the receiver gets €970.
This option is rarely used in business because the recipient receives less than expected.
Why This Is Important for Businesses
If you run a business or deal with international payments, choosing the correct fee type can make a big difference.
For example:
-
If you are selling a product internationally, using OUR ensures you receive the full payment.
-
If you are sending money to a supplier, using SHA may reduce your costs.
Many companies accidentally lose money because they don’t specify the fee option.
A Simple Strategy to Avoid Losing Money
Here is a simple rule used by many businesses:
This small detail can save hundreds or even thousands of euros over time if you regularly send international transfers.
Final Tip
Before confirming any international transfer, always check the fee option (OUR / SHA / BEN).
Many people skip this step, but understanding it can help you:
-
avoid unexpected deductions
-
protect your business margins
-
manage international payments more professionally.
Sometimes the smallest financial details make the biggest difference.
