Skip to content

Export Letters of Credit

A secure method of being paid for goods sold overseas

Be certain of receiving payment on time. An Export Letter of Credit is a conditional bank guarantee of payment. It will help ensure you receive payment on time. Payment is conditional upon all of the terms and conditions of the Letter of Credit being met. In effect the issuing bank in the country of the buyer provides a definite commitment to pay a supplier on behalf of the buyer.

  • Issuing bank acts as a guarantor independent of the buyer
  • Both parties receive protection
  • Expertise from your local Agribusiness Partner

To find out more, contact your Agribusiness Partner, arrange a visit to your local Financial Solutions Centre or call 08457 03 45 67


More Benefits

  • Separate – the Letter of Credit is paid upon presentation of compliant documents. Payment is independent from the commercial contract
  • Finance – buyers overseas often need extended credit terms. Exporters may be able to offer such terms and then use acceptances under the Letter of Credit to assist their cash flow
  • Confirmation – in some cases the Letter of Credit can be co-guaranteed by a bank in the UK by means of a confirmation being added. This transfers the risk from the buyer’s bank and the buyer’s country to a known bank in the UK
  • Personal attention – dedicated local Agribusiness Partner can make fast decisions

Further Features

  • Letters of Credit are irrevocable unless otherwise stated
  • Letters of Credit are governed by internationally accepted rules and regulations known as Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits (UCP)
  • All Letters of Credit must be checked thoroughly as they have dates that must be met, and terms and conditions that must be complied with – otherwise the protection offered ceases to exist


Complementary Solutions


Important Information

  • Costs
    • Standard charges can be found in the interest rates and charges section. Other fees may be individually negotiated – speak to your local Agribusiness Partner for more details
  • Terms and conditions
    • Letters of Credit are issued subject to the Uniforms Customs & Practice for Documentary Credits (UCP). This set of rules is produced by the International Chamber of Commerce
    • Prior to an Export Letter of Credit being issued by Clydesdale Bank you must have arranged a suitable facility and have signed the appropriate documentation. You may be asked to provide collateral
    • Full terms and conditions available on request

In the event of non payment, breach of covenant, or non compliance with terms and conditions, we may proceed to make a call on, or realise any security pledged in support of the borrowing.

CHANGES IN THE EXCHANGE RATE MAY INCREASE THE STERLING EQUIVALENT OF YOUR DEBT.

*This service may be temporarily unavailable during periods of routine maintenance.

Clydesdale Bank PLC is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Credit facilities other than regulated mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Clydesdale Bank PLC, Registered in Scotland (No. SC001111), Registered Office: 30 St. Vincent Place, Glasgow, G1 2HL. A member of the National Australia Bank Group of companies.

Get in touch

Existing Agribusiness members

  • Contact your Agribusiness Partner