[chestnut]

Hi,

I forgot a Xmas present and would like to send a small amount of money abroad to the UK. Does anyone know the cheapest way to do this? I don't want to be hit by massive fees.

Thanks

[fran]

Personally, I would send a gift certificate that could be used in the UK such as Amazon UK. It can all be purchased and sent by email. That way you do not lose any 'value' due to fees etc.

[scotty]

Tranzfers are good to use for smaller amounts:http://www.tranzfers.com/send-money-online


"Using Tranzfers is a cinch with our simple 4 step secure deposit service. Tranzfers allows you to send as little as GB£50, A$100, NZ$100, CA$100, €100, HK$500, SG$70 and SEK 500.

You simply deposit the amount you wish to tranzfer into our account. We let you know when it has arrived, give you a great rate and then deposit the converted funds into the account that you nominate.

Here's how it works in more detail:

Step 1. Register

To use the Tranzfers service, you need to register by completing our simple registration form online and then you can log in immediately. We require your details so regulatory requirements are met and to help us communicate with you. You will also need to provide us with some ID for your first transfer and we will also verify your address by posting you an Address Verification Code to be entered into our website or provided to us by phone or email. This can be done after you initiate the transfer but we cannot make a payment to your beneficiary until your ID is received.

Your username and password are ready for use as soon as you submit the online form. Simply login and book your deal in the system.

Step 2. Book your Tranzfer

To book a deal simply go to "New Tranzfer" and follow the prompts:

1. Enter the amount and currency you would like to transfer, and the currency you would like to convert to.

2. Next, enter the details of the account you are sending the funds to and select that account.

3. Finally confirm the transaction and deposit the funds to our account.

Step 3. Verify

You will receive a confirmation email from Tranzfers which will ask you to login and verify your account details for security purposes. We then put a 'watch' on your incoming funds and will update you as soon as received. You can check the progress of your tranzfer online.

Step 4. Convert and Pay

As soon as your funds appear we will email you, advising you of either the conversion details or alerting you to their arrival (depending on your preference). When the rate is set we will deposit the proceeds into your target account and advise you accordingly."

[chestnut]

Thanks for your replies - I hadn't thought about a gift certificate - I'll probably send that.:)

[jimjams]

Book tokens can be good. I prefer to give an Amazon gift certificate. I used to buy a young relative book tokens, but then heard that the tokens didn't buy as many books in a book shop as the same value of gift certificate would buy in Amazon. I sometimes wonder how many book shops there will be on the high street in a few years time.

[jimjams]

I suppose another good thing to do would be to keep a bank account in the UK for when things like this crop up.