While several physical currency exchange locations operate throughout Surrey—in Guildford, Newton, and City Centre—the smartest Surrey residents have discovered that online currency exchange delivers better rates, more convenience, and superior service. At CanAm Currency Exchange, we’ve helped thousands of Surrey residents save money by skipping physical exchange locations entirely.
Physical Currency Exchange Locations in Surrey
If you’re determined to visit a physical location, here are the main options throughout Surrey. But before you drive there, read our comparison below to understand what you’re paying for that convenience.
Bank Branches Throughout Surrey
Every major Canadian bank operates multiple branches in Surrey where you can exchange currency:
| Bank | Surrey Locations | Exchange Rate Markup | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| TD Canada Trust | Guildford, Newton, Fleetwood, Cloverdale, City Centre | 3-4% | $5-10 service fees |
| RBC Royal Bank | Multiple locations across Surrey | 3-4% | $5-10 service fees |
| CIBC | King George Blvd, 152nd Street, Fraser Highway | 4-5% | $10-20 for non-customers |
| Scotiabank | Multiple Surrey branches | 3.5-4.5% | $5-15 service fees |
| BMO | Newton, Guildford, Panorama | 3.5-4.5% | $5-15 service fees |
Pros of Surrey bank branches: Familiar institutions, same-day service if currency is in stock, convenient if you’re already banking there.
Cons of Surrey bank branches: Worst exchange rates (3-5% markup), additional service fees, limited hours (closed evenings/weekends), may not have all currencies in stock, need to visit in person.
Independent Currency Exchange Shops in Surrey
Several independent currency exchange businesses operate in Surrey, particularly in areas with high foot traffic and diverse populations:
- Newton area: Currency exchange shops along King George Boulevard and 72nd Avenue
- Surrey Central: Exchange services near Surrey Central Station and City Centre
- Guildford: Currency exchange near Guildford Town Centre
Pros of independent exchange shops: Sometimes better rates than banks (but still 3-5% markup), may have less common currencies, staff specialized in exchange.
Cons of independent exchange shops: Still significantly more expensive than online exchange, must visit in person, limited hours, rates vary dramatically between shops, some charge additional commission fees.
Credit Unions in Surrey
Coast Capital Savings and BlueShore Financial branches in Surrey also offer currency exchange services, though availability varies by location.
Pros of credit unions: Sometimes willing to negotiate on larger amounts, generally good customer service.
Cons of credit unions: Rates typically comparable to or worse than big banks (3-5% markup), limited currency selection, not all branches offer exchange services.
The True Cost of “Near Me” Currency Exchange
When you search for currency exchange near Surrey, BC, you’re prioritizing proximity over price. Let’s break down exactly what that convenience costs you.
Exchange Rate Markups at Physical Locations
Every physical currency exchange location in Surrey—whether bank, independent shop, or credit union—adds a markup to the mid-market exchange rate. This markup is their profit, and it’s where most of your money is lost.
| Amount Exchanging | Physical Location Cost (4% markup) | Online Exchange Cost (1.5% markup) | Your Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $1,000 USD | $1,388 CAD | $1,361 CAD | $27 CAD |
| $3,000 USD | $4,164 CAD | $4,083 CAD | $81 CAD |
| $5,000 USD | $6,940 CAD | $6,805 CAD | $135 CAD |
| $10,000 USD | $13,880 CAD | $13,610 CAD | $270 CAD |
These calculations use typical markups: 4% for physical Surrey locations, 1.5% for competitive online exchange. The actual difference varies by currency and market conditions, but the pattern remains consistent—online currency exchange in Surrey saves you significantly.
Hidden Costs Beyond the Exchange Rate
Physical currency exchange locations often add costs beyond their poor exchange rates:
- Service fees: $5-20 per transaction depending on location and whether you’re a customer
- Small transaction surcharges: Extra fees for exchanges under certain amounts
- Ordering fees: Charges if they need to order your currency (3-5 business days anyway)
- Your time: Driving to location, parking, waiting in line—easily 45-60 minutes of your day
- Gas costs: Fuel to drive to Surrey exchange location and back
When you add these factors together, the “convenience” of a nearby physical location becomes very expensive convenience indeed.
Compare rates right now: Call 1-888-509-7798 and see how much you’ll save with online currency exchange.
Why Online Currency Exchange Beats “Near Me” Locations
The currency exchange industry is experiencing the same shift that happened with banking, shopping, and countless other services: online providers deliver better value and convenience than traditional physical locations.
Better Exchange Rates (2-3% Advantage)
Online currency exchange services like CanAm Currency Exchange consistently offer rates that are 2-3% better than physical Surrey locations. This isn’t a promotional rate or limited-time offer—it’s how online exchange works every single day.
We operate with lower overhead than bank branches or retail exchange shops. No expensive retail space on King George Boulevard, no large staff, no costly branch networks. These savings go directly into better exchange rates for you.
True Convenience: Currency Comes to You
The real convenience isn’t a location near you in Surrey—it’s having currency delivered directly to your door. Order from your couch in Newton, your office in Guildford, or your phone while waiting for your kids in Cloverdale.
No driving, no parking, no waiting in lines, no working around branch hours. Place your order in 5 minutes, and currency arrives at your Surrey address within 1-2 business days. That’s actual convenience.
More Currencies Available
Physical Surrey locations have limited inventory. They stock common currencies like USD and EUR, but less common currencies require ordering—which takes 3-5 business days anyway, eliminating any advantage of a nearby location.
We exchange over 50 currencies and can source virtually any currency you need. Whether you need Indian Rupees for family in Punjab, Philippine Pesos for a trip home, or Thai Baht for a vacation, we deliver competitive rates for all of them.
Transparent Pricing, No Hidden Fees
When you call or visit physical exchange locations in Surrey, you often don’t know the final cost until you’re committed to the transaction. Many locations advertise attractive rates but add fees at the counter.
We display our rates openly and transparently. What you see is what you pay—no surprise fees, no last-minute additions. The rate we quote is the rate you get, with free delivery on orders over $500 to Surrey addresses.
Expert Currency Specialists
When you call us at 1-888-509-7798, you speak with currency exchange specialists—not general bank tellers handling dozens of different services. We can provide guidance on timing, recommend amounts for different trip types, and answer questions about market conditions.
Our team focuses exclusively on helping Surrey residents and other Canadians get the best value on currency exchange. That specialization translates to better service and more knowledgeable guidance.
How Online Currency Exchange Works for Surrey Residents
Worried that online currency exchange might be complicated? Here’s exactly how simple it is—simpler than visiting physical locations in Surrey:
Step 1: Get Your Rate Quote (2 minutes)
Visit our website or call 1-888-509-7798. Tell us which currency you need and how much. We’ll give you our current exchange rate with absolutely no obligation to proceed. Compare this to what Surrey banks or exchange shops would charge.
Step 2: Place Your Order (3 minutes)
If you’re happy with the rate (and we’re confident you will be), place your order online or over the phone. Provide your Surrey delivery address and contact information. We lock in your rate so you don’t worry about market fluctuations during payment processing.
Step 3: Complete Secure Payment (5 minutes)
Pay via Interac e-Transfer (most popular for amounts under $3,000) or direct bank transfer for larger transactions. Both are secure, traceable, and let us verify payment quickly.
Step 4: Receive Currency at Your Surrey Address (1-2 days)
Your foreign currency is delivered directly to your home or business via secure, insured courier. Free delivery on orders over $500. You receive tracking information so you know exactly when to expect delivery.
| Method | Your Time | Exchange Rate | Additional Fees | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visit Surrey Bank Branch | 45-60 minutes | Poor (3-5% markup) | $5-20 service fees | Must visit during business hours |
| Visit Surrey Exchange Shop | 30-45 minutes | Poor (3-5% markup) | Varies by location | Must visit during business hours |
| Order Online from CanAm | 10 minutes total | Excellent (1-2% markup) | Free delivery over $500 | Order anytime, delivered to you |
Common Objections to Online Currency Exchange (Answered)
We understand that switching from physical locations to online exchange requires some trust. Here are the most common concerns Surrey residents express—and the honest answers:
“I Want to Walk in and Walk Out with Currency Today”
This is valid if you genuinely need currency in the next 2-3 hours. For true emergencies, a physical Surrey location might be your only option—though you’ll pay dearly for that urgency.
However, most currency needs aren’t genuine emergencies. If you know you’re traveling next week, exchanging online with 3-5 days lead time saves you substantial money. Plan ahead and you get both better rates and true convenience (delivery to your door).
“Is Online Currency Exchange Safe?”
We’re registered with FINTRAC (Canada’s financial intelligence agency), which means we follow strict anti-money laundering and security protocols. We maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and have operated since 2009 without security incidents.
Your payment goes through secure Canadian banking channels (Interac e-Transfer or bank transfer), and currency is delivered via fully insured courier. Every step is tracked and protected. In fact, carrying large amounts of cash from Surrey bank branches to your car presents more risk than secure courier delivery.
“What If the Currency Doesn’t Arrive?”
All shipments are fully insured and tracked. In the extremely rare case something goes wrong in delivery, you’re completely protected—we either reship immediately or provide full refund. We’ve refined our delivery process with thousands of Surrey deliveries.
“How Do I Know Your Rates Are Really Better?”
We display rates publicly on our website in real-time. Compare them instantly to mid-market rates on Google or XE.com. Call your Surrey bank and get their rate quote, then compare to ours. We encourage rate shopping because we know our rates are consistently 2-3% better than physical Surrey currency exchange locations.
Specific Surrey Neighborhoods and Currency Needs
Different Surrey neighborhoods have different currency exchange patterns based on demographics and proximity to the border. Here’s how we serve each area:
South Surrey and White Rock
Closest to Peace Arch crossing, South Surrey residents frequently need USD for cross-border shopping and US travel. We deliver to all South Surrey addresses including Crescent Beach, Elgin, and Grandview Heights.
Popular currencies: USD (cross-border shopping, Seattle trips), EUR (European vacations), GBP (UK travel)
Newton
Surrey’s most diverse neighborhood with large South Asian and Filipino communities. We serve Newton with competitive rates on currencies important to these communities.
Popular currencies: INR (Indian Rupees), PHP (Philippine Pesos), PKR (Pakistani Rupees), USD
Guildford
Central Surrey location with mix of families and established residents. Guildford residents use currency exchange for vacations, business travel, and family support abroad.
Popular currencies: USD, EUR, MXN (Mexican Pesos), INR
Fleetwood
Growing neighborhood with young families. Fleetwood residents exchange currency primarily for family vacations and supporting relatives overseas.
Popular currencies: USD, EUR, INR, CNY (Chinese Yuan)
Cloverdale
Historic Surrey neighborhood mixing established families with newer residents. Proximity to US border makes USD exchange common.
Popular currencies: USD, EUR, GBP
City Centre
Surrey’s downtown core with high-density residential and business. Business currency exchange more common here alongside personal travel needs.
Popular currencies: USD, EUR, CNY, GBP
We deliver to every Surrey neighborhood with the same competitive rates and reliable service. Your location doesn’t affect your rate—everyone gets our best pricing.
Currency Exchange for Surrey’s Diverse Communities
Surrey’s remarkable diversity means residents need access to currencies that physical exchange locations often don’t stock. We serve Surrey’s international communities with competitive rates on currencies important to them.
South Asian Currencies
Surrey’s large South Asian population needs Indian Rupees, Pakistani Rupees, Bangladeshi Taka, and Sri Lankan Rupees for family visits, property transactions, weddings, and remittances.
We offer competitive rates that beat both Surrey banks and many money transfer services. Whether you’re funding a wedding in Punjab, purchasing property in Mumbai, or supporting family in Lahore, we provide the currency you need at rates that respect your hard-earned money.
Filipino Community
Philippine Pesos for family support, property in the Philippines, or trips home. Our rates are consistently better than Surrey bank branches and competitive with specialized remittance services.
Chinese Community
Chinese Yuan (CNY) for family visits, business in China, or property transactions. We understand the importance of getting maximum value when exchanging larger amounts for property purchases or business investments.
Middle Eastern Currencies
UAE Dirham, Saudi Riyal, Kuwaiti Dinar for travel, business, or family support in the Middle East. These currencies can be difficult to find at Surrey exchange locations but are readily available through us.
European Currencies
Euro, British Pound, Swiss Franc for European travel or supporting family in Europe. Better rates than any Surrey bank branch, with the convenience of home delivery.
Need a specific currency? Call 1-888-509-7798—we exchange over 50 currencies and can source virtually any currency you need.
Business Currency Exchange for Surrey Companies
Surrey businesses importing goods, paying international suppliers, or managing cross-border operations need reliable currency exchange services with competitive rates and professional service.
Why Surrey Businesses Choose Us Over Local Banks
Surrey businesses switching from bank currency exchange to our service report savings of $2,000-10,000+ annually depending on volume. Those savings flow directly to your bottom line.
We provide:
- Volume pricing: Better rates for regular, larger exchanges
- Business accounts: Dedicated service with preferential pricing
- Invoicing: Proper documentation for accounting
- Quick turnaround: Fast processing for time-sensitive payments
- Multiple currency needs: Support for businesses dealing with multiple international markets
Common Surrey Business Currency Needs
Import/Export Companies: Regular USD exchanges for American suppliers or customers. Volume pricing reduces cumulative exchange costs significantly.
Construction Companies: USD for materials or equipment from US suppliers. Better rates mean better project margins.
Professional Services: Paying international contractors, receiving payment from foreign clients. Competitive rates on both buying and selling currency.
Retail Businesses: Importing inventory from Asia, Europe, or US. Exchange costs are a real line item that affects profitability.
Tech Companies: Paying international developers, subscribing to US-based services. Regular currency needs benefit from business account pricing.
Discuss business currency exchange in Surrey: Call 1-888-509-7798 and ask about commercial accounts.
Real Surrey Customer Success Stories
Here’s how switching from physical Surrey exchange locations to online exchange with us has helped actual Surrey residents:
The Monthly Bellingham Shopper
Sarah from Newton was exchanging $500 USD monthly at her Surrey bank branch for Costco runs to Bellingham. At 4% markup plus $10 service fee, she was losing $30 monthly—$360 annually.
By switching to us, she now exchanges $2,000 USD quarterly at our 1.5% markup rate with free delivery. Her annual savings: $285. That’s an extra Costco trip or two, fully funded by smarter exchange.
The Family Supporting Relatives Abroad
Raj from Fleetwood sends $1,500 USD equivalent in Indian Rupees quarterly to family in India. His Guildford bank was charging 4.5% markup—costing him $270 annually in poor exchange rates.
Using our service, his annual currency exchange costs dropped by $180. Over five years, that’s $900 saved—nearly an entire extra year’s worth of support for his family.
The Surrey Business Owner
Mike’s Surrey construction company exchanges $5,000-8,000 USD monthly for materials and equipment from American suppliers. His business banking relationship was costing him $200-300 monthly in poor exchange rates.
By switching to our business account with volume pricing, he saves approximately $2,400 annually. That savings goes directly to his bottom line—equivalent to several thousand in additional revenue given typical profit margins.
How to Choose Between Surrey Currency Exchange Options
Still weighing your options? Here’s a simple decision framework:
Choose Physical Surrey Locations If:
- You genuinely need currency within the next 2-3 hours (true emergency)
- You’re exchanging under $100 and don’t mind paying $5-10 extra for immediate service
- You’re already at the bank for other business and currency exchange is a minor addition
Choose Online Currency Exchange (Us) If:
- You want the best possible exchange rate (2-3% better than Surrey locations)
- You value true convenience (delivery to your Surrey address)
- You’re exchanging $500+ and want to save substantial money
- You exchange currency regularly and want cumulative savings
- You need less common currencies not stocked at Surrey banks
- You can plan 3-5 days ahead (which covers 90%+ of currency needs)
For the vast majority of Surrey residents, online exchange delivers better value and more genuine convenience than physical “near me” locations.
Take Action: Get Better Rates Than Any Surrey Location
The next time you need foreign currency—for vacation, business, family support, or any other reason—don’t automatically default to the nearest Surrey bank or exchange shop. Take five minutes to see how much you’ll save.
Get Your Free Rate Quote
Call us at 1-888-509-7798 or visit our website for an instant, no-obligation rate quote. We’ll show you our current rate and calculate exactly how much you’ll save compared to physical Surrey locations.
Compare for Yourself
If you’re skeptical, we encourage you to comparison shop. Call your Surrey bank, check your local exchange shop, get our quote, and compare. This five-minute exercise will show you why hundreds of Surrey residents have already switched to online exchange.
Join Surrey’s Smart Currency Exchangers
Surrey families and businesses who’ve already made the switch are saving money on every transaction while enjoying more convenient service. They never have to fight traffic to King George Boulevard, wait in line at Guildford branches, or work around limited branch hours.
Your next currency exchange is an opportunity to keep more of your hard-earned money. The “near me” option might seem convenient, but delivering to your door at better rates is the real convenience.
Get started now: Call 1-888-509-7798 or visit canamcurrencyexchange.com/surrey-currency-exchange
CanAm Currency Exchange is a FINTRAC-registered money services business serving Surrey, BC and customers across Canada since 2009. We maintain an A+ BBB rating and offer competitive currency exchange rates that beat local Surrey banks and exchange shops by 2-3%. Free delivery on orders over $500 to all Surrey addresses including South Surrey, Newton, Guildford, Fleetwood, Cloverdale, and City Centre.
