15-Point Pre-Trade Arbitrage Checklist

Run through this list before every cross-exchange trade. Print this page (or use Save as PDF) and keep it next to your monitor.

1. Verify the spread on both exchanges — refresh order books; stale JSON ≠ live book.
2. Calculate break-even spread — include maker/taker fees on both legs (typically ~0.2% round-trip minimum).
3. Check withdrawal status on buy and sell venues (maintenance = stuck funds).
4. Match network — same chain on send and receive (e.g. TRC20 USDT → TRC20 USDT).
5. Estimate network fee as % of position size (small tickets die on expensive L1 fees).
6. Confirm deposit confirmations required on the sell exchange before you buy.
7. Size vs liquidity — will your order move the book? Use limit orders when possible.
8. Pre-fund both exchanges — fastest arbs skip on-chain transfer during the window.
9. KYC & limits — daily withdrawal caps can block the sell leg.
10. Slippage buffer — assume 0.05–0.15% worse than mid on fast markets.
11. Transfer ETA — spread may close before coins arrive; have a max wait time.
12. Stablecoin depeg risk — USDT/USDC spread adds hidden cost.
13. Tax & compliance — know your jurisdiction; this guide is not tax advice.
14. Log the trade — entry prices, fees, net PnL (use our calculator).
15. Post-mortem if it fails — which step broke? Update your personal playbook.