Sending money to Jordan has never been easier with multiple options at our fingertips. Western Union has been helping people transfer funds around the world for over 150 years, while MoneyGram connects the UK to Jordan and more than 200 other countries worldwide.
However, when deciding on the best way to send money to Jordan, we often face a crucial choice: bank transfer or cash pickup? Both methods have distinct advantages depending on your specific needs. Bank transfers might be preferable for certain situations, whereas cash pickups, which can deliver funds to your recipients in minutes, might be better for others. Furthermore, with services like Revolut attracting over 65 million global customers, digital options are increasingly popular.
In this guide, we’ll examine both transfer methods in detail, helping you understand which option makes more sense for your situation. We’ll also provide practical recommendations based on various scenarios you might encounter.
How bank transfers and cash pickups differ
Understanding the fundamental differences between bank transfers and cash pickups is essential before deciding which method suits your needs for sending money to Jordan.
Definition and process of each method
Bank transfers move money electronically from one bank account directly to another without physical cash changing hands. This traditional method involves secure networks like SWIFT for international transfers. To initiate a bank transfer, you’ll typically need the recipient’s name, address, bank information, and for international transfers, the bank’s SWIFT code and account number.
The process generally follows these steps:
- Log into your banking app or online banking portal
- Select the transfer option and enter recipient details
- Enter the amount and review exchange rates
- Confirm the transaction and receive a confirmation number
Cash pickups, on the other hand, allow recipients to collect physical money from designated locations without needing a bank account. After you initiate the transfer, your recipient can collect funds in person from authorized agent locations such as banks, convenience stores, or dedicated money transfer offices.
For cash pickups, the process typically involves:
- Initiating the transfer online or in-person
- Providing the recipient’s information and selecting a pickup location
- Paying for the transfer via cash, debit/credit card, or bank transfer
- Receiving a transaction number to share with your recipient
- The recipient presenting ID and the transaction number at the pickup location
Who typically uses each method
Bank transfers are primarily used by individuals who value security and automation. They’re ideal for those making regular payments to recipients with established bank accounts, especially in urban areas with strong banking infrastructure.
Conversely, cash pickup services cater to a different demographic, providing an essential option for specific needs like when you need to move money from England to Jordan. According to industry data, about 80% of global remittance customers in emerging markets prefer cash-based transactions. This method is particularly valuable when sending money to recipients without bank accounts or in areas with limited banking access.
Cash pickups serve as a lifeline in rural areas of countries like Jordan, where banking infrastructure might be limited. They’re typically favored by older generations and in regions with lower digital literacy. Additionally, they provide immediate access to funds for emergency situations or when recipients need physical cash for daily expenses.
Key factors to consider before choosing
When selecting the optimal method to send money to Jordan, several crucial factors deserve your attention. These considerations can significantly impact both the sender’s experience and the recipient’s ability to access funds effectively.
Availability in the destination country
Cash pickup services enjoy widespread availability across numerous countries, with major providers like WorldRemit offering this service to dozens of nations. For instance, in the Middle East region specifically, countries like United Arab Emirates have established cash pickup networks. Meanwhile, Ria maintains an extensive presence with operations in more than 190 countries worldwide.
Despite this global reach, availability varies by region. Certain providers may not offer cash pickup services in all European countries. Consequently, verifying that your chosen provider operates in Jordan specifically remains essential before initiating a transfer.
Receiver’s access to banking or pickup points
The recipient’s personal circumstances profoundly influence which transfer method works best. Cash pickup locations typically include banks, retail stores, supermarkets, and convenience shops. Western Union, for example, maintains numerous agent locations across the US and internationally for this purpose.
Nevertheless, operational hours and geographic distribution of pickup points matter tremendously. Some rural areas may have limited access to pickup locations, making bank transfers potentially more practical for recipients in remote regions. In fact, safety considerations might make bank transfers preferable for larger amounts, as carrying substantial cash can put recipients at risk for theft.
Transfer limits and regulations
Financial institutions commonly impose daily and monthly limits on international transfers. These caps vary significantly between providers:
- Banks like Chase allow up to $100,000 per day for personal accounts
- Money transfer services often have lower limits (Ria: $14,999.99 every 30 days)
- Wells Fargo sets a 30-day rolling limit of $12,500 for their ExpressSend service
Beyond provider-specific limits, regulatory requirements apply. The IRS mandates reporting of international transfers exceeding $10,000. Furthermore, transfers above $3,000 require banks to maintain detailed records for potential future investigations.
Importantly, financial institutions may change these limits without prior notice based on security concerns or compliance requirements.
Real-world scenarios and recommendations
Let’s examine practical scenarios to help you choose the most appropriate money transfer method based on specific situations.
Sending money to family in cities
For relatives living in urban areas with developed banking infrastructure, bank transfers often provide the most secure and convenient option. Most online transfer services charge lower fees than traditional banks, typically ranging from free to $50 depending on the service. If your family member has a mobile wallet, this might be even more convenient as funds can be available within minutes to 24 hours.
Remittance services like Remitly are particularly beneficial for regular, smaller international transfers, helping keep costs to a minimum. These services also allow you to track your transfer in real-time through email, SMS, or mobile apps.
Supporting relatives in rural areas
Cash pickup truly shines when sending money to relatives in rural areas with limited banking access. This method is especially valuable in developing countries where infrastructure may not be as developed.
Be cautious of scams, though. If someone calls claiming to be a relative in trouble needing immediate funds, always verify with another family member first. Remember that cash pickup locations can include banks, shipping companies, and even convenience stores, making them accessible in various settings.
Paying for services or rent abroad
When paying for services or rent internationally, consider the frequency of payments. Reducing transfer frequency by paying several months upfront can save on fees. Bank transfers work well for recurring payments like rent, offering security and traceability.
Importantly, international wire transfers often come with higher fees and can take 3-5 business days to process. Digital tools like multi-currency accounts allow you to hold different currencies and exchange them when rates are favorable.
Best way to send money to Jordan based on location
For sending money to Jordan, your options vary based on your recipient’s location. Western Union offers both bank deposits and cash pickups throughout Jordan. Recipients can collect cash transfers in person at agent locations, making this ideal for those without bank accounts.
To transfer money to Jordan via Western Union, simply register online and verify your profile. Bank transfer times range from minutes up to one banking day. MoneyGram also provides secure transfers to Jordan with multiple delivery options.
Tips to make your transfer safer and cheaper
Making smart choices about your money transfer to Jordan can save you significantly on fees and ensure your funds arrive safely. Here are essential tips to optimize your international transfers:
Compare exchange rates before sending
Look beyond the advertised “zero fees” claims—many providers hide their profits in poor exchange rates. The difference between the mid-market rate (found on sites like Bloomberg or Reuters) and what you’re offered represents a hidden markup. Even small rate improvements can mean more money for your recipient, especially for larger transfers.
Use trusted providers with transparent fees
Essentially, providers that show all fees upfront and use the mid-market exchange rate typically offer better value. Some services average 46% cheaper than most banks. Before committing, verify that your provider is authorized by regulatory agencies like the Financial Conduct Authority or Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Avoid weekend transfers if possible
Mid-week (Tuesday through Thursday) transfers typically secure better rates. Markets are closed on weekends, often locking you into Friday rates until markets reopen. Moreover, sending between the 10th-20th of the month may help you avoid end-of-month busy periods when rates can be less favorable.
Track your transfer in real time
Most reputable providers now offer real-time tracking through apps or websites. This feature allows you to monitor your money’s journey and provides peace of mind. Additionally, many services send notifications confirming when your recipient receives the funds.
Conclusion
Choosing between bank transfers and cash pickups ultimately depends on your specific circumstances and those of your recipient. Throughout this article, we’ve seen that bank transfers offer security and convenience for recipients with established bank accounts, especially in urban areas with strong banking infrastructure. Conversely, cash pickups provide immediate access to funds without requiring a bank account, making them invaluable for recipients in rural areas or during emergencies.
Before making your decision, remember to consider the availability of services in Jordan, your recipient’s access to banking facilities or pickup points, and any applicable transfer limits. Additionally, comparing exchange rates from different providers can save you significant money, particularly for larger transfers.
Timing also matters significantly when sending money abroad. Weekday transfers generally secure better rates than weekend transfers, while mid-month transactions often avoid end-of-month busy periods when rates might be less favorable.
We recommend using trusted providers with transparent fee structures and tracking capabilities for peace of mind. Though traditional methods like Western Union and MoneyGram remain reliable options for sending money to Jordan, digital services like Revolut continue to gain popularity due to their competitive rates and convenience.
After all, the best choice balances cost, convenience, speed, and security based on your unique situation. Whether supporting family members, paying for services, or sending emergency funds, understanding these differences helps you make informed decisions that maximize value and ensure your money reaches its destination safely and efficiently.
