Documentary 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 you make sure that every document is filled in correctly.

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Overview of documentary credits

Documentary credits for exporters For an exporter, a documentary credit from the importer's bank removes the risk that the buyer will not pay. Read about D/C for exporters	Documentary credits for importers For an importer, a documentary credit requires the importer to comply with the agreeed conditions fore payment is made. Read about D/C for importers

Standby documentary credits Unlike a standard documentary credit, a standby D/C is activated only if the expected payment does not take place. Read about standby D/Cs	The D/C process We have outlined the steps in the documentary credit process and presented them graphically. See the documentary credit process

International rules Documentary credits are subject to various international rules and regulations. Here you have an outline of these. Read about international rules	Glossary We have compiled a glossary of terms often used in transactions involving documentary credits. See a glossary of D/C terms

FAQ We have compiled a set of frequently asked questions in relation to handling documentary credits. See FAQ about documentary credits	Incoterms 2000 Businesses use ICC's standard trade definitions to describe risks, responsibilities and obligations. Read more about Incoterms 2000

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Go local Read about our trade and export finance services across northern Europe (new window):	Document checklist What to look out for in every document involved in the documentary credit process: Overview of checklists