At 03:07 AM 4/14/2010, ivp wrote: >Hi all > >For the first time I've been asked to transfer money for parts via >Western Union. The parts company, in Taiwan, has asked whether >this is "convenient for your use". I'd prefer to stick with this company >as they have what I want at a good price for the quantity > >I'm not familiar with Western Union and would like to hear of any >praise, gotchas, fees, potential problems etc I have used Western Union to pay suppliers in Asia - both Hong Kong and in Taiwan. No problem with any of the transactions. Here's how it works for me (here in Canada): I go to either Walmart or Safeway and make payment at the customer service counter. They will use whatever form of payment I desire: credit/debit card or cash. They then use a terminal of some sort to do the transaction. I am then handed the paperwork which includes a "PIN" number which I then email back to the person whom I am paying. From what I can see, the institution accepting the payment (Safeway, Walmart) are the only people who see my financial information. And - I trust them everytime I make purchases there. The problem with Western Union is that you have absolutely NO recourse if the person whom you are paying runs off with your money. As soon as they give the PIN number at their end and receive the money, Western Union is off the hook. In other words, you have to trust the company or person you are paying to actually deliver the product you are ordering. Like I mentioned, I've had no problems so far but I've certainly heard and read of others who have been burned. Your mileage may vary . dwayne -- Dwayne Reid Trinity Electronics Systems Ltd Edmonton, AB, CANADA (780) 489-3199 voice (780) 487-6397 fax www.trinity-electronics.com Custom Electronics Design and Manufacturing -- http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive View/change your membership options at http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist