Why Is Instant Bank Transfer Fee-Free?

2 min read·Updated June 2026

Short answer: there’s no catch. Paying for labels by card comes with a processing fee. Paying by instant bank transfer skips that fee — so it’s free, and you keep a little more on every label.

TL;DR
  • Card payments carry a processing fee that gets passed on to you.
  • Instant bank transfer skips the card networks, so there’s no fee.
  • You pay less on every label — nothing hidden.

Why cards cost more

When you pay by card, the card networks (like Visa and Mastercard) charge a fee on every payment — a small percentage plus a flat amount per transaction. On smaller label purchases, that fee takes a real bite. That cost gets passed on to you at checkout.

Why bank transfer is free

An instant bank transfer moves money straight from your bank account — there’s no card network in the middle. No card network means no card fees, so there’s simply nothing to pass on. That’s the whole reason it’s fee-free.

No catchIt’s genuinely cheaper — every label, every time. Your label still buys immediately.

Is there any downside?

No. Your money is handled securely by Stripe, Thryft Ship never sees your bank login, and you can change or remove the connection any time in your Billing settings. Want the details on how it’s set up and kept safe? See How instant bank transfer works & why it’s secure.

Next time you buy labels, pick Instant bank transfer at checkout — it’s fee-free and sets up in about 30 seconds.

Common questions

Will I really save money?

Yes — you skip the card processing fee on every purchase. The exact amount depends on the order, but it adds up over time.

Is it safe to connect my bank?

Yes. It’s handled by Stripe with bank-grade encryption, and Thryft Ship never sees your bank login. More in How instant bank transfer works & why it’s secure.

How do I switch?

Set it up in about 30 seconds at checkout, or any time in your Billing settings.