International money transfers

[the fury]

I've had an outstanding payment from a customer in Holland for ages now and am having real trouble sorting it out – I am clueless about banking stuff and it's just dragging on and on.

The customer asked for routing numbers, swif numbers, iban numbers and all sorts to facilitate payment. I call my bank (abbey) for help and every different person I talk to gives me a different story about what is required! I supply the numbers to the customer and he says they are all wrong (says a routing number is an eight figure number with no letters in it at all, which isn't what the bank supplied). He seems really apologetic about not getting the money through, but I just don't know if he's spinning me a load of old bulls*it to avoid coughing up. Has anyone else had any experience with getting money from Holland? Is there an easier way of doing it?

[darrent]

All you need is an IBAN and a SWIFT BIC - your bank will give them to you - to get the money in your account. You should not need a routing number.

[simpo two]

I'm sorry if this sounds trite and naive in the scheme of things but - how about PayPal? You'll lose 3.4% but it might be worth it to get the matter cleared up.

Or is that too far outside the box?!?

[2 Smokin Barrels]

darrent said:

All you need is an IBAN and a SWIFT BIC -

Usually printed on the top of your statement.

>> Edited by 2 Smokin Barrels on Sunday 6th March 21:11

[the fury]

Yeah, I'd rather use PayPal, but I don't think his accountant is too up for it. Seems like everyone agrees about what he needs info wise to pay up. I guess I need to speak to him again, as it looks like he's just stalling for time. Thanks guys.