How to Transfer Crypto Between Exchanges: Step-by-Step (2026)

Transferring crypto between exchanges is one of the most common — and most nerve-wracking — things beginners do. Here's how to do it safely.

Before you transfer: 3 things to verify

1. Both exchanges support the same network

If you're sending USDC, you need to make sure both the sending and receiving exchange support the same network (e.g., both support USDC on Ethereum, or both support USDC on Arbitrum).

Common mistake: Sending USDC on Arbitrum to an exchange that only accepts USDC on Ethereum. Result: funds stuck or lost.

2. The receiving exchange has completed your verification

Many exchanges require full KYC (identity verification) before you can deposit crypto. Check this BEFORE initiating a transfer.

3. Check the withdrawal fee

Some exchanges charge significant withdrawal fees. Check the fee before sending. Use our Exchange Fee Calculator to compare.

Step-by-step transfer

Step 1: Get the deposit address

On the receiving exchange:

1. Go to "Deposit" or "Receive"
2. Select the token (e.g., BTC, ETH, USDC)
3. Select the network (e.g., Ethereum, Arbitrum, Bitcoin)
4. Copy the deposit address

Step 2: Initiate the withdrawal

On the sending exchange:

1. Go to "Withdraw" or "Send"
2. Select the same token and same network
3. Paste the deposit address
4. Enter the amount
5. Review everything carefully — especially the network

Step 3: Send a test transaction first

Always send a small amount first ($5-10). Wait for it to arrive and confirm. Then send the rest.

Step 4: Track your transaction

After initiating, you'll get a transaction hash (txid). You can track it on a block explorer:

• Ethereum: etherscan.io
• Bitcoin: mempool.space
• Solana: solscan.io

Which network to use?

For the cheapest and fastest transfer, use Layer 2 networks when both exchanges support them:

Check our Gas Fee Estimator for current costs.

Common mistakes to avoid

1. Wrong network — the #1 mistake. Triple-check the network matches on both sides
2. Sending to a smart contract — some addresses are contracts, not wallets. Only send to deposit addresses
3. Forgetting the memo/tag — some tokens (XRP, XLM, ATOM) require a memo. Without it, funds are lost
4. Impatience — Bitcoin can take 30-60 minutes to confirm. Don't panic

If something goes wrong, check our Recovery Playbooks.

Related tools

• Gas Fee Estimator — check transfer costs
• Exchange Fee Calculator — compare withdrawal fees
• Should I Send Now? — check network conditions
• Exchange Status — verify exchanges are operational
• Recovery Playbooks — if something goes wrong