Payment to China Supplier

[RichardHNY]

Hi.

I have imported a few things from china but always paid through paypal because I was told it is the most secure way of paying.

I recently ordered a sample product from a new supplier, cost $45 and received the following email back:

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Dear Richard,
Paypal has a handling charge fee $30, so you may pay us $75. please note this.

If could you pay us by Western Union? it can help you save $30.

----

Does this seem genuine? I didn't think the paypal handling fee would be so much. I feel I am being forced not to use paypal.

I've never used western union before and any advise would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Mary5200]

The paypal handling fee is 5%

 

[Mary5200]

$30 is nonsense ! !

 

[RichardHNY]

Thanks Mary.

 

[MOIC]

The handling fee is just under 5%.

The problem is that to "access" that money (to withdraw it) costs between $30 - $40 in bank charges.

I wouldn't send via Western Union if it's the first time you are doing business with this supplier.

Buying from China means that all the boxes have to be ticked during your "Due Diligence" stage.

If the payment option is a problem for you, walk away.

There will be many more suppliers offering the same or similar products.

 

[Maple Sourcing]

Yes, PayPal charges very high if in China someone need to take the money out, especially for small amount. So, I usually keep small money in PayPal and only take out after it accumulates to over $500.

And I try NOT to accept PayPal for such reasons, unless definitely no other options and I do not want to piss my clients off.

If it's only $45, I'd suggest you pay in Bank Transfers or whatever the way your supplier suggests, come on, it's just a tiny cash! Keep in mind that scammers will not be interested in cheating $45, they're aiming for $4500! Usually scammers will be more than happy to provide FREE samples if they see a chance to scam you big money.

Per my experiences, usually good companies are stricter in payment options, as they have stricter financial regulations.

 

[xnstandy]

Yes, you are right, paypal charges very high if you would like to transfer money to bank card it seems that the amount is $30 or $35 per time.

 

[DamianUK]

The risk with Western Union is you have no recourse should the seller fail to ship the goods. So it has a terrible reputation.

You could look at bank transfers or an Escrow like on Alibaba.

 

[hongfunclothing]

I think your supplier means they have to pay $30 to withdraw money from their PayPal account , so they want you to bear the cost .

 

[BillWong]

It's time to going to find another supplier.

 

[Roenal]

PayPal or credit card are becoming much more widely accepted by Chinese suppliers. Therefore you should consider using these safe payment methods. If something goes wrong, you can usually get your money back.

Good luck.
S.