8 Wise Alternatives for Sending Money from Brazil to China

When looking to send money from Brazil to China, many individuals and businesses automatically consider Wise due to its strong brand presence. However, the landscape of international money transfers is vast, and depending on your specific needs, other providers might offer superior value. While Wise is a popular option, exploring alternatives is crucial to ensure you get the best exchange rates and lowest fees for your cross-border transaction. Platforms like Panda Remit and traditional giants often compete aggressively on this specific route, offering distinct advantages for users moving funds between the Brazilian Real (BRL) and the Chinese Yuan (CNY).

What to Consider When Choosing an International Money Transfer Service

Before selecting a service to send money from Brazil to China, it is essential to look beyond the brand name. Here are the key factors to evaluate among alternatives to Wise.

Fees and Hidden Costs

Many remittance services charge a transparent upfront fee, but others may hide costs within the exchange rate markup. Always compare the total cost of the transfer, not just the advertised fee.

Exchange Rates and Markups

The exchange rate is often where users lose the most money. Compare the provider's rate against the mid-market rate. Some services, like Panda Remit, are known for offering highly competitive rates that closely track the real market value.

Transfer Speed and Payout Methods

Speed is critical for urgent payments. While bank deposits can take days, some services offer instant digital wallet credits or cash pickup. Cross-border transfers to China specifically often benefit from integrations with Alipay or WeChat Pay.

Trust and Regulation

Ensure your chosen provider is fully regulated. Reputable services will be licensed by major financial authorities, ensuring your funds are protected throughout the process.

Top 8 Alternatives to Wise for Brazil to China Transfers

Below is a comparison of leading international money transfers providers. Note that fees and speeds can vary based on the transfer amount and time of day.

1. Panda Remit

Panda Remit is a digital-first remittance service that has gained significant traction for cross-border transfers to Asia. It is designed to cut out the middlemen, offering very competitive rates compared to traditional banks.

• Best Known For: specialized low-cost transfers to China.
• Strengths: High exchange rates and minimal fees.
• Limitations: Primarily digital; no physical branches for sending cash.
• Brazil to China Fit: Excellent support for CNY payouts via Alipay and WeChat.
• Cost/Speed: Fast digital processing with competitive FX margins.

2. Western Union

As one of the oldest names in international remittance services, Western Union offers unmatched physical coverage.

• Best Known For: Global agent network for cash pickup.
• Strengths: Reliability and massive reach.
• Limitations: Fees can be high, and exchange rate margins are often wider than digital competitors.
• Brazil to China Fit: Good if the recipient in China needs physical cash.
• Cost/Speed: Instant options available at a premium price.

3. Remitly

Remitly focuses on the immigrant community, offering tiered services to balance speed and cost when you need to send money from Brazil to China.

• Best Known For: Express vs. Economy delivery options.
• Strengths: clear delivery promises and easy-to-use app.
• Limitations: Exchange rates may fluctuate between delivery tiers.
• Brazil to China Fit: Reliable digital payouts.
• Cost/Speed: Express is fast but costs more; Economy saves money but takes longer.

4. WorldRemit

WorldRemit is a strong alternative to Wise for users who prioritize mobile transactions and digital wallet deposits.

• Best Known For: Mobile-first transfers to wallets and airtime top-up.
• Strengths: fast, secure, and user-friendly interface.
• Limitations: Transfer limits can be lower than some bank-focused competitors.
• Brazil to China Fit: Good connectivity with Chinese digital payment ecosystems.
• Cost/Speed: Generally fast with transparent fees.

5. MoneyGram

Similar to Western Union, MoneyGram provides a hybrid of digital and physical transfer options for international money transfers.

• Best Known For: Fast cash transfers globally.
• Strengths: Trusted brand with thousands of locations.
• Limitations: Fees can be complex and higher than purely online players like Panda Remit.
• Brazil to China Fit: Viable for urgent cash needs.
• Cost/Speed: Very fast service, but costs can accumulate.

6. Xoom (a PayPal Service)

For users already within the PayPal ecosystem, Xoom offers a convenient way to handle cross-border transfers.

• Best Known For: Integration with PayPal accounts.
• Strengths: Speed and convenience for existing PayPal users.
• Limitations: Often has higher exchange rate markups and fees.
• Brazil to China Fit: Easy if the sender already has funds in PayPal.
• Cost/Speed: Fast delivery, premium pricing.

7. Ria Money Transfer

Ria is a consistent performer in the remittance market, offering a balance between cost and physical accessibility.

• Best Known For: Affordable rates for cash pickup.
• Strengths: Extensive network and reasonable fees.
• Limitations: Digital interface may feel less modern than fintech startups.
• Brazil to China Fit: Solid option for bank deposits and cash pickup.
• Cost/Speed: Moderate speed with competitive pricing.

8. OFX

OFX is tailored for larger international money transfers where personal support and security are paramount.

• Best Known For: Large transfers and currency risk management.
• Strengths: No transfer fees on most trades; dedicated brokers.
• Limitations: Minimum transfer amounts often apply; slower than digital wallets.
• Brazil to China Fit: Best for business payments or large personal savings transfers.
• Cost/Speed: Slower (1-4 days) but cost-effective for high volumes.

When Panda Remit Is a Strong Choice

Among the various alternatives to Wise, Panda Remit stands out in specific scenarios, particularly for the Asia corridor. If you are looking to send money from Brazil to China, Panda Remit offers distinct advantages that cater to value-conscious users.

Panda Remit is often the preferred choice for users who prioritize maximizing the amount received by the beneficiary. The platform typically offers 0 fees and high exchange rates for new users, making it an attractive entry point for first-time senders. For existing customers, Panda Remit will supply most promotions for old users, ensuring long-term value through loyalty rewards and seasonal offers.

Furthermore, the service excels in speed and compliance. It is Licensed by major financial authorities, providing the same level of security as traditional banks but with the agility of a fintech. With support for direct transfers to Alipay and WeChat Pay, Panda Remit streamlines the process for recipients in China, avoiding the complexities often associated with traditional bank wires. Whether you are sending support to family or paying for services, the combination of low costs and high security makes Panda Remit a compelling option.

Conclusion

Choosing the right service to send money from Brazil to China depends on your priorities: speed, cost, or convenience. While Wise is a standard benchmark, exploring alternatives to Wise like Panda Remit, WorldRemit, or Remitly can result in significant savings. Users should carefully compare the total landing amount—after fees and exchange rate markups are applied—to ensure they are getting the best deal. For those prioritizing high exchange rates and promotional offers, Panda Remit is a robust solution worth considering.

Ready to save on your next transfer? Learn more about Panda Remit and check today's rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest alternative to Wise for international transfers?

The cheapest alternative often depends on the specific currency route. For transfers to Asia, specifically China, Panda Remit is often cheaper due to its specialized focus, offering 0 fees for new users and competitive exchange rates.

How do exchange rates impact total remittance costs?

Exchange rates are often where hidden costs lie. A provider might advertise "zero fees" but offer a poor exchange rate. Comparing the provider's rate to the mid-market rate is essential for cost-effective international money transfers.

When should users consider Panda Remit over other services?

Users should consider Panda Remit when sending money to Asian markets like China. If you need digital wallet integration (Alipay/WeChat) and want to benefit from promotions for old users and high rates for new users, Panda Remit is a strong contender.

How fast are international transfers with Panda Remit?

Panda Remit is designed for speed. Many transactions, especially those sent to digital wallets, are completed within minutes. Bank transfers may take slightly longer but are generally faster than traditional SWIFT transfers.