By BRF SHIPPING
When importing from China, choosing the right payment method is critical. Among all options, T/T payment (Telegraphic Transfer) remains the most widely used method in global trade due to its speed and simplicity.
In this guide, BRF SHIPPING explains everything you need to know about T/T payments to China—including process, risks, costs, and expert tips to avoid costly mistakes.
T/T (Telegraphic Transfer) is an international bank wire transfer that allows buyers to send money directly from their bank account to a supplier’s account via the SWIFT system.
It is one of the most common payment methods in international trade and is especially popular when dealing with Chinese suppliers.
In simple terms:
T/T = Bank-to-bank international payment
A typical T/T transaction in China follows this structure:
The supplier issues a PI with product details, price, and payment terms.
You pay an upfront deposit to start production.
The supplier manufactures goods. Quality inspection is recommended.
You pay the remaining amount before shipment.
The supplier ships goods and releases documents (B/L, invoice, packing list).
| Payment Term | Meaning | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| 100% T/T in advance | Full payment before production | ???? High risk |
| 30/70 T/T | 30% deposit, 70% before shipment | ???? Medium |
| T/T after shipment | Pay after goods shipped | ???? Low (rare) |
The 30/70 structure is the most common and balanced option.
Transfers usually arrive within 1–3 working days.
Almost all Chinese suppliers accept T/T payments.
Easy to process via online banking or local banks.
Once trust is established, T/T becomes highly efficient.
Unlike platforms (e.g., escrow), bank transfers are irreversible once sent.
Scammers may provide fake bank details or impersonate suppliers.
Suppliers often require deposits before production.
Typical costs include:
Bank transfer fee ($20–$50)
Intermediary bank charges
Currency conversion fees
Costs vary depending on banks and countries, but T/T is still cheaper than L/C (Letter of Credit).
| Method | Speed | Cost | Risk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| T/T | Fast | Low | Medium | Most imports |
| L/C | Slow | High | Low | Large orders |
| PayPal | Fast | High | Low | Small orders |
| Trade Assurance | Medium | Medium | Low | Alibaba buyers |
Here are proven tips from BRF SHIPPING:
Check business license, factory address, and bank details.
Never pay personal accounts.
Even small errors can cause delays or loss.
Always negotiate partial payment terms.
Ensure product quality before paying final 70%.
T/T is best suited for:
Medium to large orders
Established supplier relationships
Standard manufacturing products
Experienced importers
Yes—but only if you follow strict precautions.
T/T is considered safe when:
You work with verified suppliers
You use official company bank accounts
You apply staged payments (30/70)
Otherwise, it carries moderate financial risk.
T/T means Telegraphic Transfer, a type of international bank wire payment.
Typically 1–3 business days depending on banks.
Usually no. T/T payments are difficult to reverse once completed.
T/T is cheaper but riskier. PayPal offers better buyer protection.
Yes, but USD is more common in international trade.
At BRF SHIPPING, we don’t just move cargo—we help protect your transactions.
✔ Supplier verification support
✔ Inspection coordination
✔ Door-to-door logistics solutions
✔ Customs clearance expertise
✔ Risk control for international payments
Not sure whether T/T is right for your shipment?
Contact BRF SHIPPING today for a free logistics and payment consultation.
We’ll help you reduce risk, save cost, and ship smarter.
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