Step by Step: Mastering the Letter of Credit Process

What is a Letter of Credit?

A letter of credit is a written document issued by a bank or financial institution on behalf of an importer (buyer) to guarantee payment to an exporter (seller) for delivered goods or services. It serves as a form of trade finance, reducing the risk of non-payment or delayed payment for both parties.n

Why Use a Letter of Credit?

For the Importer:

• • Enhances creditworthiness and negotiating power

• • Ensures delivery of goods or services as per contract

• • Allows deferred payment, improving cash flown

For the Exporter:

• • Eliminates the risk of non-payment or delays

• • Provides assurance of the importer’s financial ability

• • Enables access to financing using the letter of credit as collateraln

Types of Letter of Credit

• • Commercial Letter of Credit: Basic and widely used for goods or services payment

• • Revolving Letter of Credit: Reusable for multiple transactions within a specified period

• • Standby Letter of Credit: Serves as a backup or guarantee of performance

• • Confirmed Letter of Credit: Involves two banks, adding confirmation and guarantee

• • Transferable Letter of Credit: Allows the exporter to transfer the right to receive paymentn

Letter of Credit Process

the process of letter of credit:

1. 1. Agreement: Importer and exporter agree on trade contract terms, including the use of a letter of credit.
   2. Application: Importer applies for a letter of credit, providing contract details and required documents.
   3. Issuance: Issuing bank reviews and approves the application, issues the letter of credit in favor of the exporter.
   4. Verification: Exporter or advising bank checks the letter of credit for compliance with the trade contract.
   5. Shipment: Exporter ships goods or provides services as per the trade contract and letter of credit.
   6. Document Preparation: Exporter prepares and collects required documents, presents them to the issuing or confirming bank.
   7. Document Verification: Issuing or confirming bank verifies documents and, if in order, pays the exporter.
   8. Document Transmission: Bank sends documents to the importer and debits the importer’s account.
   9. Completion: Importer receives documents and goods, completing the trade transaction.n

Conclusion

A letter of credit is a valuable tool for international trade, offering security and convenience. Understanding the process, associated costs, fees, and risks is crucial. Adhering to standards like the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits (UCP 600) ensures successful use of letters of credit in international trade.