So you’ve done your research and identified an international importing or exporting opportunity, and now you want to put a deal in place. The next step is to set up a contract that specifies terms and payments and protects your interests.
One way to protect your interests is through a letter of credit. Through this document, the bank is authorized as a third party to handle payments. A letter of credit ensures that an exporter is paid only after the importer verifies that the goods and services have met the conditions spelled out in the letter of credit – and vice versa.
An international banker can explain your options and help you set up a letter of credit that best meets your needs.
You might also want to learn more about INCOTERMS.® This is a set of standardized three-letter codes for common international trade terminology (e.g. “DAT” stands for “Delivered at Terminal.”) INCOTERMS was developed by the International Chamber of Commerce to help prevent misunderstandings in foreign trade.
Although you should certainly consult an attorney experienced in setting up international contracts, several organizations publish “model contracts.” Reviewing those can help you understand how small- and mid-sized businesses often set up their contracts.
