Choice of bank
If there is more than one possible bank:
- Seek advice from your own organisation, other organisations and international agencies. Ask about, service, reliability, reputation and major clients.
- Check for any links between the bank and your organisation's head office bank. Find out how many branches or links there are between the head office bank and other banks in the country where you are working. This is important for fast and safe international and national transfers.
- Visit the bank to meet the manager - making personal contact is invaluable.
- Can the bank give you references from an international agent (e.g. another bank)?
- What methods of payment (e.g. cheques, standing order, international transfers) does it offer?
- How efficient is the bank in issuing or transferring cash (e.g. delays, maximum limits, notice periods, correspondent bank)?
- What arrangements are possible for large cash withdrawals (e.g. over the counter or in a private room)?
- How many different currency accounts can the bank open?
- Can the bank provide monthly statements for each account?
- How much are the bank charges and what do they cover?
- How close can a vehicle get to the entrance of the bank?