Letters of credit: what to check before applying

What to bring to a funding conversation

Confirm document requirements, expiry, bank fees and supplier acceptance in advance.

A confirmed buyer order, the supplier's written quote, product and delivery terms, and a margin worksheet show how the transaction will be fulfilled.

Identify the buyer, transaction amount and the exact date cash is needed; a specific packet is more useful than a broad sales projection.

How to compare cost and timing

List each step—supplier payment, production, shipment, acceptance and the buyer's final payment—on a timeline. Ask for the total cost in dollars if the buyer pays on schedule and if payment is delayed.

A fee quote should explain when charges begin, whether there are minimums, and who receives customer payments.

Decision point

A letter of credit is a documentary payment method some suppliers accept in place of an immediate wire.

A document discrepancy can delay payment even if the goods are ready.

Compare this proposal with a bank line, trade credit or self-funding using the same transaction and dates. The lowest advertised rate may not cover the cash need at the right time.

Next step

Send a confirmed order or completed invoice and supporting evidence to National Invoice Factoring for an individual review. No financing terms or approval can be inferred from this general guide.