Selling on Amazon means managing payments across multiple currencies, dealing with international transfers, and keeping transaction costs under control. With tariffs reaching 125% on Chinese imports as of April 2025 ¹, Amazon sellers need payment solutions that protect their margins while handling complex cross-border transactions. The global payment gateways market has reached US$ 24.6 billion in 2023 ², creating more options – but also more confusion – for sellers searching for the right provider.
You're likely evaluating payment providers because traditional solutions aren't cutting it anymore. Whether you're switching from OFX or exploring alternatives to your current setup, this guide breaks down what actually matters for Amazon sellers in 2025.
Why Amazon sellers need specialized payment solutions
Amazon sellers face unique payment challenges that standard business accounts can't handle efficiently. International transfers are expected to increase 5% per year until 2027 ³, yet 195 countries all have their own payment systems, regulations, and levels of technological maturity ³.
The stakes are higher than ever. With US tariffs on Chinese goods reaching 125% and Chinese tariffs on US goods at 84% ¹, every percentage point saved on payment processing directly impacts your bottom line. Traditional payment providers often add hidden fees and unfavorable exchange rates that compound these challenges.
According to data analytics company LexisNexis, up to 50% of payments that don't complete or are delayed are due to simple data entry problems ³. This means choosing a provider with robust automation and verification systems isn't just convenient – it's essential for maintaining cash flow.
Critical features Amazon sellers should prioritize
Multi-currency account management
Managing inventory purchases from suppliers while receiving payments from Amazon requires holding multiple currencies simultaneously. The ability to hold funds in 23 different currencies without forced conversions saves significant costs ⁴. This becomes especially valuable when timing currency conversions to favorable rates rather than being forced to convert immediately.
Real-time payment processing
Speed matters in e-commerce. Research shows that 89% of payments flowing through the Swift network arrive at the destination bank within an hour, with half reaching the beneficiary account in less than five minutes ³. Your payment provider should match or exceed these speeds to maintain competitive advantage.
Integration capabilities
Seamless integration with your existing tools eliminates manual data entry errors and saves time. Shopify Payments, for instance, can be set up with zero downtime and offers features like selling in 133+ global currencies ⁵. Look for providers offering similar integration depth with Amazon seller tools and accounting software.
Transparent pricing structures
Hidden fees destroy profitability. Payment gateways prevent fraudulent activities through card verification value (CVV) and address verification system (AVS) ², but these security features shouldn't come with surprise charges. Transparent, predictable pricing lets you accurately calculate margins.
Comparing top payment providers for Amazon sellers
Traditional banks vs. fintech solutions
Traditional banks often struggle with the speed and flexibility Amazon sellers need. While they offer established relationships and perceived security, their international transfer fees and exchange rate markups significantly impact profitability. Globally, 84% of payments now involve either direct transfers or just one intermediary ³, yet many banks still use multiple intermediaries, adding cost and delay.
Fintech solutions have emerged to fill this gap. Companies like Airwallex offer multi-currency accounts, high-speed international transfers, and automated accounts payable management on unified platforms ⁶. These features specifically address pain points traditional banks haven't solved.
Specialized e-commerce payment providers
E-commerce-focused providers understand the unique needs of online sellers. Shop Pay has over 200 million users globally and delivers 10% higher checkout conversions compared to competitors ⁵. While primarily for receiving payments, these insights into customer payment preferences inform what features to seek in your business payment provider.
The global digital payment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15.62% during 2024-2032 ⁷, indicating continued innovation in this space. Providers investing heavily in technology and infrastructure will likely offer better long-term value.
Regional considerations
Payment provider effectiveness varies by region. Skrill Limited allows businesses to send and receive money in nearly 200 countries and 40 currencies ², while Alipay primarily conducts business in China ². Choose providers with strong coverage in your supplier and customer regions.
How Airwallex addresses Amazon seller needs
Airwallex has built its platform specifically for businesses operating internationally. Over 150,000 companies worldwide trust the platform for revenue growth ⁶, with features designed to eliminate common payment friction points.
Currency management without borders
The platform provides access to interbank foreign exchange rates, helping sellers maximize value on every transaction ⁴. Unlike traditional providers that profit from exchange rate markups, this transparent approach means you know exactly what you're paying.
Kester Black, an ethical cosmetics brand, saves C$24,000 yearly from currency conversion fees on global expenses using Airwallex ⁸. They complete international transactions in just 6 seconds ⁸, demonstrating the platform's efficiency for time-sensitive supplier payments.
Automated financial operations
Automation reduces errors and saves time. Airwallex offers automated accounts payable management, helping businesses streamline supplier payments ⁹. This automation becomes crucial when managing multiple suppliers across different time zones and currencies.
The platform's multi-currency company cards enable teams to make purchases directly in local currencies ⁸, eliminating conversion fees on everyday business expenses. For Amazon sellers sourcing products internationally, this feature alone can generate significant savings.
Integration and scalability
Airwallex provides integrations with major e-commerce platforms and recently updated their Shopify payments integration ¹⁰. These integrations ensure payment data flows seamlessly between systems, reducing manual reconciliation work.
The platform scales with your business. RYSE transformed complex cross-border finances into streamlined, cost-saving operations using Airwallex ¹⁰, demonstrating how the platform handles growth from small seller to enterprise operation.
Cost comparison: Breaking down the real numbers
Understanding true payment costs requires looking beyond advertised rates. Traditional banks often charge percentage-based fees plus fixed amounts per transaction, making small transfers disproportionately expensive.
Hidden costs to watch for
Exchange rate markups represent the largest hidden cost for most Amazon sellers. Even a 1% markup on currency conversion can cost thousands annually for sellers processing significant volume. Payment gateways are expected to reach US$ 42.4 billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate of 6% during 2024-2032 ², partly driven by providers offering more transparent pricing.
Intermediary fees add another layer of cost. When payments route through multiple banks, each takes a cut. Direct payment routes eliminate these intermediary fees, keeping more money in your business.
Calculating your savings potential
Consider a seller importing $100,000 monthly from Chinese suppliers. With traditional banking fees averaging 2-3% for international transfers, that's $2,000-3,000 monthly in fees alone. Add exchange rate markups of 1-2%, and total costs reach $3,000-5,000 monthly.
Fintech solutions offering interbank rates and lower transfer fees could reduce these costs by 50-70%. Kester Black's C$24,000 annual savings on currency conversion ⁸ demonstrates real-world impact for businesses managing international payments.
Implementation strategy for switching providers
Timing your transition
Switching payment providers requires careful planning. The best time is during slower sales periods when you can test new systems without risking peak season operations. Real-time payment systems are expected to generate $173 billion in additional economic output by 2026 ³, making early adoption increasingly valuable.
Start by running parallel systems – keep your existing provider while testing the new one with smaller transactions. This approach minimizes risk while you verify the new provider meets your needs.
Migration checklist
Successful migration requires systematic preparation:
Audit current payment flows and identify all touchpoints
Document existing integration requirements
Calculate baseline costs for comparison
Set up new accounts with proper verification
Test small transactions before full migration
Update supplier payment information gradually
Monitor first month's transactions closely
Payment automation software features like listing management, inventory management, and order management ¹¹ should integrate smoothly with your new payment provider.
Ready to grow globally?
Managing supplier relationships
Communicate changes early to suppliers. Explain how faster payments and multi-currency capabilities benefit them too. Many suppliers prefer receiving payments in their local currency, eliminating conversion costs on their end.
Provide clear documentation showing your new payment details and expected processing times. This transparency builds trust and prevents payment delays during transition.
Future-proofing your payment infrastructure
Emerging payment technologies
Blockchain technology is transforming payment systems by addressing inefficiencies in traditional financial infrastructure ¹². While still emerging, blockchain enables direct transfers between parties across global borders without traditional banking intermediaries ¹².
Around 90% of central banks globally are currently working on developing Central Bank Digital Currencies ³. These developments will likely create new payment rails that further reduce costs and increase speed.
Regulatory considerations
Payment regulations continue evolving globally. The global B2B payments market reached US$ 1,108.6 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 2,117.0 billion by 2032 ¹³. This growth brings increased regulatory attention.
Choose providers with strong compliance frameworks. Leading companies in B2B payments are introducing compliance and security solutions that are reliable and efficient ¹³. This ensures your payment infrastructure remains compliant as regulations change.
Scalability planning
Your payment provider should grow with your business. Consider providers offering programmatic account creation and onboarding for managing multiple selling entities ⁶. This capability becomes essential when expanding to new marketplaces or creating separate brands.
Major market players are leveraging technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, and machine learning for making transactions more convenient ⁷. Providers investing in these technologies will likely offer better long-term value.
Security and fraud prevention
Payment security directly impacts your business reputation and financial health. Advanced encryption techniques protect transaction data, ensuring only authorized participants access sensitive financial information ¹².
Multi-layer security approaches
Modern payment providers implement multiple security layers. Shopify Payments is Level 1 PCI DSS compliant and has SOC2 Type II compliance ⁵, setting the standard for payment security.
Look for providers offering similar certifications plus additional features like real-time fraud monitoring and automated risk scoring. These systems catch suspicious transactions before they impact your account.
Protecting against account takeover
Account takeover represents a growing threat to online sellers. Strong customer authentication supports like 3D Secure 2.0 help prevent fraud and reduce chargebacks ¹⁴. Implement multi-factor authentication and regularly review account access permissions.
Optimizing for peak selling seasons
Peak seasons test payment infrastructure limits. According to Shopee's Raya 2025 Seller Trends Study, 9 in 10 sellers experience significant sales boosts during festive seasons ¹⁵. Your payment provider must handle these volume spikes without degrading service.
Preparing for volume surges
Test your payment systems before peak seasons arrive. Process higher volumes during off-peak times to identify potential bottlenecks. Decentralized blockchain networks operate continuously, transcending traditional banking hours and geographical limitations ¹², making them valuable for 24/7 selling operations.
Establish backup payment routes for critical transactions. Having alternative providers ready prevents complete shutdowns if primary systems fail during crucial selling periods.
Managing cash flow during peaks
Faster payment processing improves cash flow during high-volume periods. Half of payments flowing through modern networks reach beneficiary accounts in less than five minutes ³. This speed lets you reinvest in inventory quickly during peak demand.
Consider payment providers offering flexible credit lines or advance payment options. Shopify Capital offers quick access to equity-free funding without lengthy application processes ⁵, helping sellers maintain inventory during peak seasons.
Making your decision: Key evaluation criteria
Choosing the right payment provider requires evaluating multiple factors against your specific needs. Start with these critical criteria:
Essential features checklist
Multi-currency account capabilities
Transparent, competitive exchange rates
Fast international transfer speeds
Integration with existing tools
Scalable infrastructure
Strong security certifications
Responsive customer support
Clear, predictable pricing
Red flags to avoid
Watch for providers with complex fee structures hiding true costs. Avoid those requiring long-term contracts without trial periods. Be cautious of providers lacking proper regulatory compliance or security certifications.
Providers processing payments for only small merchant numbers may lack the infrastructure for reliable service. Ryft currently processes payments for over 1,500 merchants ¹⁴, demonstrating sufficient scale for stability.
Conclusion: Taking action on payment optimization
Optimizing your payment infrastructure isn't just about saving money – it's about building a competitive advantage. With international transfers expected to increase 5% annually through 2027 ³ and tariffs reshaping global trade, efficient payment processing becomes increasingly critical.
The right provider eliminates payment friction, reduces costs, and frees you to focus on growing your Amazon business. Whether you're currently using OFX or another traditional provider, modern solutions like Airwallex offer features specifically designed for international e-commerce operations ¹⁶.
Start by calculating your current payment costs across all currencies and transaction types. Compare these against potential savings from providers offering interbank rates and lower fees. Even modest improvements in payment efficiency can generate thousands in annual savings – money better invested in inventory and growth.
The payment landscape continues evolving rapidly. Providers investing in technology, maintaining strong compliance, and offering transparent pricing will deliver the most value. Make your choice based on current needs while ensuring your provider can scale with your ambitions.
Your next step? Audit your current payment costs and identify your biggest pain points. Then explore how modern payment solutions can address these challenges while positioning your business for sustainable growth in an increasingly complex global marketplace.
FAQ
What are the best payment providers for Amazon sellers in 2025?
The best payment providers for Amazon sellers in 2025 include traditional banks like JPMorgan Chase, fintech solutions like Airwallex, and specialized services like World First and TorFX. Modern fintech providers often offer better exchange rates, lower fees, and faster international transfers compared to traditional banks. The choice depends on your specific needs, transaction volume, and target markets.
How do rising tariffs affect payment provider selection for Amazon sellers?
With tariffs on Chinese imports reaching 125% as of April 2025, Amazon sellers need payment providers that help protect their margins through competitive exchange rates and low transaction fees. Rising costs make it crucial to minimize payment processing expenses and optimize international transfers. Sellers should prioritize providers offering transparent pricing and efficient cross-border payment solutions.
What advantages do fintech payment providers offer over traditional banks?
Fintech payment providers like Airwallex typically offer better exchange rates, lower transaction fees, faster processing times, and more transparent pricing than traditional banks. They often provide specialized features for e-commerce businesses, including multi-currency accounts, automated payment reconciliation, and integrated accounting tools. Many fintech providers also offer 24/7 customer support and user-friendly digital platforms designed for modern businesses.
How can Amazon sellers reduce international payment costs?
Amazon sellers can reduce international payment costs by choosing providers with competitive exchange rates, avoiding hidden fees, and consolidating transfers to reduce transaction frequency. Using multi-currency accounts can help avoid conversion fees, while automated payment scheduling can take advantage of favorable exchange rates. Comparing providers like OrbitRemit vs TorFX or XE Money Transfer vs World First can help identify the most cost-effective solution for your specific routes.
What should Amazon sellers consider when choosing a payment provider?
Amazon sellers should evaluate exchange rates, transaction fees, processing speed, supported currencies, and integration capabilities when choosing a payment provider. Consider the provider's regulatory compliance, customer support quality, and scalability as your business grows. According to Airwallex's guide to choosing payment providers, businesses should also assess security features, reporting capabilities, and the provider's track record with e-commerce companies.
Why are cross-border payments becoming more important for Amazon sellers?
Cross-border payments are increasingly critical as international transfers are expected to grow 5% annually until 2027, according to J.P. Morgan research. With 195 countries having different payment systems and regulations, Amazon sellers need providers that can navigate this complexity efficiently. Modern payment solutions help sellers access global markets while managing currency risks and compliance requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
Citations
https://www.jpmorgan.com/payments/payments-unbound/volume-3/cross-border-payment-modernization
https://www.airwallex.com/ca/blog/comparison-wise-vs-airwallex
https://ecomprofitpath.com/knowledge/amazon-automation-software
https://www.airwallex.com/ca/blog/a-canadian-business-owners-guide-to-successful-expansion
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Airwallex Editorial Team
Airwallex’s Editorial Team is a global collective of business finance and fintech writers based in Australia, Asia, North America, and Europe. With deep expertise spanning finance, technology, payments, startups, and SMEs, the team collaborates closely with experts, including the Airwallex Product team and industry leaders to produce this content.
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- Why Amazon sellers need specialized payment solutions
- Critical features Amazon sellers should prioritize
- Comparing top payment providers for Amazon sellers
- How Airwallex addresses Amazon seller needs
- Cost comparison: Breaking down the real numbers
- Implementation strategy for switching providers
- Future-proofing your payment infrastructure
- Security and fraud prevention
- Optimizing for peak selling seasons
- Making your decision: Key evaluation criteria
- Conclusion: Taking action on payment optimization
- FAQ
- Citations