CIBC Money Transfer Review
Exchange rates, Payment methods, How to, Transfer fees and much more
CIBC Review
If you want to send money abroad from Canada, you may want to consider CIBC’s international money transfer service. Customers use it to send money to loved ones, pay tuition fees abroad and for much more. Before deciding on a bank or other service to send international money transfers, you need to have all the facts. For example, did you know CIBC has two types of international transfers? This guide will tell you everything you need to know about sending money with CIBC Global Money Transfer and its wire transfer service.
History Of CIBC
In 1961, two of Canada’s leading banks merged to form CIBC, the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. Known as the Imperial Bank of Canada and Canadian Bank of Commerce before, both banks were established in the 1800s. The company expanded not only across Canada, but the world. In the 1920s there were opportunities across the Caribbean and Latin America to expand, and CIBC seized them. It now has branches all over the Americas. With over 150 years of experience in taking care of your money, you can rest assured that CIBC isn’t going anywhere.
How Does CIBC Global Money Transfer Work?
In order to request a wire transfer using the traditional method, you'll need to visit your local branch. The information needed about the recipient is the same. That is, their full name and address, including city, account number, and the full name and address of their bank.
TD Bank Money Transfer Exchange Rates
Unlike most banks, CIBC does not publicly post its exchange rates. This makes it difficult to compare what the real cost of a money transfer may be. Usually though, the bank makes a 2 to 5 percent margin on the real exchange rate.
What does this mean?
If you’ve researched an exchange rate for your favorite currencies before, you’ve probably seen the mid-market exchange rate. This is a favourable rate used between banks. However, this rate is rarely offered to you, the customer. In order to make money, banks offer you a rate that is less favourable than the real exchange rate.
If you really need to know the exchange rate before sending, it’s possible to contact CIBC beforehand. Bear in mind though that rates do change from day to day. By using their Remi BetaBot on Facebook you can ask for the exchange rate of the day.
CIBC Transfer Fees
There is no fee to send money to over 90 countries if you use the Global Money Transfer option. CIBC does note however, that the recipient’s bank and intermediary banks may take fees.
For international wire transfers outside of the service there are higher fees. These start at $30 for transfers in the amount of $10,000 or less. For transfers over $10,000 to $50,000 the fee is $50.
Do note that if you pay for the transfer in other currencies than Canadian dollars there is an extra fee of $15.
What are some of the reasons to choose CIBC over other Candian banks?
Huge ATM network
CIBC has over 1,100 locations around the country
Most trusted banks in Canada
How To Open An Account With CIBC
For students, there’s the International Student banking package. Some highlights: -n- A $60 signup bonus - No monthly fee - Free membership to SPC discount program - Student credit cards to build your credit history - Unlimited transactions and free Interac e-transfers
These benefits last all the way until your graduation date and six more months beyond that. You must have reached the age of majority in your province to be eligible.
Is Sending An International Transfer With CIBC Secure?
CIBC has several security measures in place to make sure your experience is a good one. To access the site, you must have a browser that uses 128-bit encryption. This ensures your connection is secure.
CIBC is also a part of the Canadian government’s Verified.Me program that provides a digital identity for more secure transactions. The bank has a guarantee that if you lose anything due to fraud, you’ll get your money back.
Best rates with RemitBee
Transfers are secure, with top-level encryption protecting your data and funds. Whether you're sending money to family or handling business transactions, RemitBee ensures a smooth, reliable experience every time.
Pros And Cons Of Using CIBC
Convenient transfers through online banking
No transfer fee for Global Money Transfer service
App and online banking is available 24 hours a day
Cons
Exchange rate is not clear up front
Have to have a bank account with CIBC to use service
Can take up to three business days for recipient to get funds
How it works
How Does CIBC Make Money On Its International Transfers?
CIBC does what many banks do: add a margin on the exchange rate in order to make a profit. Banks use one exchange rate, the mid-market rate, when doing large transactions between themselves. When CIBC offers you a rate, however, it is marked up by a percentage.
Platforms where CIBC is available
CIBC Allows You To Transfer Money To The Following Countries
Alternatives To CIBC Money Transfer
For many senders, banks may be the first choice for international money transfers. They are seen as a safe and secure option since they are so well-known. However, they are not known for sending money cheaply or quickly. Some Canadian banks like Scotiabank have introduced new money transfer options that make it easier to send with lower fees. But overall banks shouldn’t always be the first option and it’s best to explore your choices.
Online-only banks such as Tangerine and EQ Bank are a great alternative to CIBC money transfers. Opening an account with one of these providers can actually replace your primary bank. They also have international money transfers among their products. You will need to be comfortable with technology, as the process is entirely online.
If you’ve ever heard of MoneyGram, Ria or Western Union you are familiar with traditional money transfer companies. Often found in convenient locations, these services offer the advantage of cash pickup, often within minutes. Your recipient won’t need a bank account and the money will be with them in less than a day. However, the fees are usually high and the exchange rates are not competitive.
A number of online companies such as Remitbee specialise in sending money overseas. The advantage of these companies is that they have less costs than banks or traditional money transfer providers. They don’t maintain brick and mortar branches like CIBC does. This means they can pass the savings on to you, the customer.
With RemitBee you can find out the exchange rate and fee for a transfer before you send. Because of the clarity and ease of use, online transfer companies may be one of the best options for sending money internationally.
How To Contact CIBC
Available every day on the bank’s website
1-866-525-8622 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
CIBC Client Care, PO Box 15,Station A, Toronto, ON, M5W 1A2
You can book an in-person meeting on their website once you are logged into online banking.
Other Money Transfer Providers
Conclusion
CIBC Global Money Transfer can be a convenient way to send money online if you have a CIBC bank account. The bank has a long history and is secure enough that you can trust your transfer will be in good hands. However, it’s best to consider if it’s the cheapest or fastest option for your particular circumstances. If you choose to send via the bank’s wire transfer method, it will also involve a trip to your local branch. For more reviews on money transfers, read the Remitbee Blog.