Common SWIFT Errors That Cause Delays in Money Transfers

Bank transfers via the SWIFT system are among the safest and most common methods for transferring money between countries.
However, many users face delays of several days or even weeks in receiving money.

In most cases, these delays are due to preventable errors in the registration or review process of the transfer.

How Does SWIFT Work?

There are usually several stages in a SWIFT transfer:

Originating bank
One or more intermediary banks
Destination bank

Any error at any of these stages can cause the transfer to be halted or delayed.

Common Errors in SWIFT Transfers

Mistake in the SWIFT Code of the Destination Bank

The SWIFT code precisely identifies the destination bank and branch.
Errors in this code can cause:

Transfer halt at the intermediary bank
Wrongly sent to another bank
Return or long delay

IBAN or Account Number Error

Errors in the IBAN or account number are among the most common causes of delay, such as:

Too few or too many characters
Country mismatch with the IBAN structure
Incorrect digit entry

In this case, the destination bank may hold or return the transfer.

Mismatch in Recipient Name

The recipient's name must exactly match the name registered with the bank account.
Minor differences in:

Name order
Extra letters
or using a trade name instead of a person's name

can lead to manual review and delay.

Unclear or Inappropriate Description in the Reference Section

In SWIFT transfers, the description section is of high importance.
Ambiguous or irrelevant descriptions may:

Cause anti-money laundering reviews
or stop the transfer at the intermediary bank

Incorrect Fee Type Selection

In SWIFT transfers, there are usually three types of fees.
Incorrect selection can cause:

Partial fee deduction
Transfer halt
or delay in settlement

Anti-Money Laundering Regulations and Source of Funds Review

Even if technical information is correct, banks are required to review the source of money.
The following cases increase the risk of delay:

High amounts without history
Unusual transaction patterns
Lack of clear explanation about the source of income

The Role of Intermediary Banks in SWIFT Transfer Delays

In many routes, intermediary banks play a decisive role.
If an intermediary bank:

Considers the country or account to be high-risk
or requires further review

the transfer may be stopped for an indefinite period.

Consequences of Delay in SWIFT Transfers

Temporary blocking of money
Delay in fulfilling business commitments
Increased sensitivity of banks to the account
Possibility of rejection or return of the transfer

Solutions to Reduce Delays in SWIFT Transfers

Double-Check Information Before Sending

Complete match of the recipient's name
Thorough checking of IBAN and SWIFT Code
Confirmation of the currency acceptable by the destination bank

Clarifying the Purpose and Source of Money

Including a clear and brief explanation in the Reference
Using a contract or invoice for large amounts
Avoiding sudden and irregular transfers

Selecting Safe Money Transfer Routes

In many cases, reducing direct dependence on high-risk banking routes can shorten transfer time.
Choosing the right route plays an important role in the success of the transfer.

The Role of Adonis Exchange in Reducing SWIFT Errors

Adonis Exchange, with practical experience in international transfers:

Registers transfer information in a standardized manner
Chooses low-risk routes
Reduces the chances of delays and rejections

These services are useful for individuals, freelancers, and businesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How natural is a delay in SWIFT transfers?

Between 2 to 5 working days is normal, but errors can increase this time.

Does a delay mean losing money?

No, the money is usually safe but temporarily blocked.

What is the most common SWIFT error?

Mistake in IBAN, SWIFT code, and recipient name.

How can the risk of delay be reduced?

By providing accurate information, financial transparency, and choosing a safe money transfer route.

Final Summary

Delays in SWIFT transfers are often the result of:

Information errors
Anti-money laundering checks
or the role of intermediary banks

By:

Accurate data entry
Clarifying the source of money
and selecting a safe transfer route

the transfer time can be minimized.

Adonis Exchange makes international money transfer faster, more stable, and less risky by providing structured solutions.

Contact number for Iranian exchange in Turkey (Adonis Exchange)

Contact number:
+90-5544857070
+90-5544897070

WhatsApp Support:
https://wa.me/adonis.exchange
https://wa.me/sarafi.adonis.exchange

Google Location:
https://share.google/LOM1KuzY39Ww4p64c

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/sarafi_adonis/

Telegram:
https://t.me/sarafi_adonis

WhatsApp Channel:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6T78XF1YlSASxM251G

Website:
https://sarafi.adonis.exchange