T/T (Telegraphic Transfer) is the international banking term for a standard wire payment between business accounts. T/T is the dominant payment method in wholesale electronics worldwide, used for deals from $10,000 to multi-million-dollar shipments.
Common T/T payment structures in 2026 wholesale:
- T/T 100% advance, full payment before stock ships. Used with new buyer relationships and high-risk lots. Seller commands a 2-5 percent price premium.
- T/T 30/70, 30 percent deposit on PO confirmation, 70 percent balance against B/L copy or pre-shipment inspection. Standard for established relationships.
- T/T 50/50, equal split, often used for first-time deals between vetted parties.
- T/T against shipping documents, full payment released against bill of lading. Common in international shipments with established freight forwarders.
T/T transfers typically clear in 1-3 business days. SWIFT fees range from $20$50 per transfer; correspondent-bank charges add another 0.05-0.15 percent. For very large deals, traders sometimes use OFX, Wise Business, or specialist FX providers to reduce conversion costs.
T/T: common questions
What is T/T (Telegraphic Transfer)?
T/T is the international banking term for a standard wire payment between business accounts. It is the dominant payment method in wholesale electronics, used for deals from 10,000 US dollars to multi-million-dollar shipments.
What are common T/T payment structures?
T/T 100 percent advance (full payment before shipping, used for new relationships at a 2 to 5 percent premium), T/T 30/70 (30 percent deposit, 70 percent against a B/L copy or inspection), T/T 50/50 (equal split for first-time vetted deals), and T/T against shipping documents.
How long does a T/T take and what does it cost?
T/T transfers typically clear in 1 to 3 business days. SWIFT fees range from 20 to 50 US dollars per transfer, with correspondent-bank charges adding another 0.05 to 0.15 percent.