TRC20 or ERC20: Which USDT Network to Choose for a Transfer
A short explanation of the difference between TRC20 and ERC20, and how to pick the right network so your USDT arrives safely.
USDT exists on several blockchain networks, and the most common are TRC20 (Tron) and ERC20 (Ethereum). The token is the same, but these are different "roads" with different addresses, fees and speed. If you send USDT on the wrong network, the funds can be lost for good. Here is how to choose correctly.
How TRC20 and ERC20 differ
TRC20 runs on the Tron network, ERC20 on Ethereum. In general, Ethereum fees tend to be higher and depend heavily on network load, while a USDT transfer on Tron is usually cheaper. Your wallet or exchange always shows the exact fee before you confirm. A TRC20 address usually starts with "T", an ERC20 address with "0x".
How to choose the network: step by step
- Find out which network the recipient supports. This is the main rule: the sending network must match the receiving network. Draxma accepts TRC20 (Tron) only; USDT sent via ERC20, BEP20 or any other network may be lost.
- Create an order. For example, for exchanging USDT TRC20 to a UAH card, select the direction in the form, check the limits and the "You receive" amount. It is already final, with Draxma's fees and the payout network fee included.
- Copy the address from the order. Don't type it by hand, and check that it starts with "T".
- In your wallet or exchange, select the TRC20 (Tron) network. Don't leave the default value in the "Network" field; pick TRC20 explicitly.
- Check the amount and the sending fee. The withdrawal network fee is charged by the platform you send from, and it is shown before you confirm.
- Send the transfer and follow the status. USDT is credited after TRON network confirmations. An exchange usually takes up to 30 minutes, and the status is visible on the order page.
Common mistakes
- Choosing ERC20 just because it is familiar or listed first.
- Not checking the address format: "0x…" is not a TRC20 address.
- Copying the address from notes or an old chat instead of the current order.
- Forgetting the withdrawal fee on the sending platform: your balance must cover both the amount and the fee.
- Following a random link to the site. Always check that the browser shows draxma.io.
Summary
Before every transfer, check the network and the address format: for a USDT exchange at Draxma, choose TRC20 only.
