The Core blockchain is a Layer 1 public chain that, like other networks, requires users to pay gas fees in its native token—$CORE—for transactions. While you can purchase $CORE on centralized exchanges such as OKX, Bybit, or Gate.io, this guide focuses on using decentralized methods to bridge assets onto the Core Network.
We’ll walk through how to use the official Core Bridge to transfer assets from BNB Smart Chain to Core Chain, how to swap tokens once there, and address common questions about the process.
Prerequisites for Using Core Bridge
Before you begin, make sure you have the following ready:
- A configured MetaMask wallet.
- The official Core Bridge website.
- Some USDT and BNB (for gas fees) on the BNB Smart Chain.
How to Use the Core Bridge Step by Step
Step 1: Connect Your Wallet
Navigate to the Core Bridge website. Click “CONNECT WALLET” in the top-right corner and select MetaMask. Approve the connection request in your wallet.
Step 2: Configure the Transfer
Once connected, you’ll see the “BRIDGE” interface. Select “BNB CHAIN” as the source and “COREDAO” as the destination. Choose USDT as the asset to bridge and enter the amount you wish to transfer.
Step 3: Approve the Spending Limit
If it’s your first time bridging USDT, you’ll need to approve the bridge contract to access your tokens. Click “APPROVE,” and a MetaMask pop-up will appear. Set a custom spending cap and confirm. The gas fee for this approval is minimal—around 0.000221 BNB.
Step 4: Initiate the Transfer
After approval, click “TRANSFER.” Another MetaMask window will appear showing the gas fee for the bridging transaction—approximately 0.000875 BNB. Confirm the transaction.
Step 5: Receive Your Assets
The transfer usually completes within two minutes. Once done, check your MetaMask wallet after switching to the Core network. You should see the bridged USDT and a bonus of 0.02 $CORE, which is provided to cover future gas fees on the Core network.
Additionally, this transaction will be recorded on LayerZero, increasing your transaction count on the protocol.
How to Swap USDT for CORE on the Core Network
After bridging, you may want to convert your USDT into $CORE. The Core ecosystem supports several decentralized exchanges, including ArcherSwap, LFGSwap, and ShadowSwap.
Here’s how to use ArcherSwap:
- Go to the ArcherSwap website and connect your MetaMask wallet.
- In the swap interface, select USDT as the “from” token and CORE as the “to” token.
- Enter the amount you wish to swap. If it’s your first time, click “Approve USDT” and confirm the transaction in MetaMask.
- Once approved, click “SWAP” and confirm again.
Gas fees on the Core network are very low—often less than 0.01 CORE per transaction.
You can verify all transactions using Core Scan, the official blockchain explorer for the Core network.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Core Bridge?
The Core Bridge is an official tool that allows users to transfer assets between supported blockchains—such as BNB Chain, Ethereum, and the Core Network—in a decentralized way.
Why did I receive 0.02 CORE after bridging?
This is a bonus provided by the network to help new users pay for transaction fees (gas) on the Core blockchain, making it easier to get started.
What are the gas fees like on the Core network?
Gas fees on Core are generally very low—often a fraction of a cent—making it economical for swapping and other transactions.
Can I bridge assets from networks other than BSC?
Yes, the Core Bridge also supports transfers from Ethereum to the Core Network.
Do I have to use a DEX to get CORE?
No, you can also buy CORE on major centralized exchanges and withdraw it directly to your self-custody wallet, which can be faster and require fewer steps.
What is LayerZero and why does transaction count matter?
LayerZero is an interoperability protocol that enables cross-chain messaging. Some airdrop campaigns or network incentives consider the number of cross-chain transactions a user has made.
Alternative Methods for Funding Your Wallet
If you don’t already have BNB or USDT on the BNB Chain, you can use a refueling service like Bungee. It allows you to send a small amount of gas tokens (like BNB) from another network—such as zkSync—to your BNB Chain address. This is a convenient way to get started and also adds to your cross-chain transaction history.
Another option is to use a multi-chain aggregator like LlamaSwap to find the best rate when swapping BNB for USDT directly on the BNB Chain.
For users who prefer a simpler approach, purchasing CORE on a centralized exchange and withdrawing it to your MetaMask is also effective. 👉 Explore secure trading platforms
Conclusion
The Core Bridge offers a smooth and cost-effective way to move assets onto the Core Network. The process is straightforward, transaction speeds are high, and gas fees are exceptionally low.
While the Core DeFi ecosystem is still growing, using the bridge is a practical way to onboard funds and explore available applications. Whether you use the bridge or a CEX, you now have multiple options for acquiring and using $CORE.