Documentary creditsDocumentary credits

The documentary credit is one of the most secure payment methods in international trade, offering the exporter a conditional payment guarantee from the importer’s bank.

Documentary credits usually require the presentation of certain documents. We have compiled a set of checklists to help your company make sure that every document is filled in correctly.

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Documentary credits covers the followingDocumentary credits covers the following

Export
For an exporter, the risk of your buyer not paying is covered by a documentary credit from the buyer's bank. You are therefore no longer dependent on a customer’s willingness or ability to pay.

Read about exporting
Import
Payment is made only when the exporter presents documents that comply with the terms and conditions of the documentary credit.

Read about import
Standby documentary credits
Unlike a standard documentary credit, a standby documentary credit is activated only if the payment does not take place.

Read about standby documentary credits
Documentary credit process
See a graphical presentation of the documentary credit process and the various steps involved.

 Read about the documentary credit process
International rules
Documentary credits are subject to various international rules and regulations. You can get an overview here.

Read about the international rules
Incoterms 2000
Companies use the ICC's standard trading terms for defining risk, liability and obligations.

Read about Incoterms 2000
FAQ
We have compiled a list of FAQ about documentary credits.

See frequently asked questions
Documentary credit glossary
We have compiled a list of terms often used in connection with documentary credits. You will find them in our glossary.

See glossary

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