Export credit insurance protects companies involved in international commerce against loss incurred by their overseas clients due to non-payment. It can be a valuable tool for businesses that want to manage credit risk and improve cash flow.
Our article will describe export credit coverage, including how it works, benefits for businesses, and how to pick the right policy.
What Is Export-Credit Insurance?
Export credit coverage protects businesses involved in international trade against loss incurred by non-payment from their overseas customers. The insurance covers risks such as customer defaults, insolvency of the customer, and political events that could impact their ability to pay.
Export credit coverage can be purchased for a single payment or an entire portfolio. It also covers a range of risks, including commercial and political risks. Export credit policies differ in coverage, deductible and premium rates.
How Does Export Credit Assurance Work?
Export credit policy coverage protects businesses involved in foreign trade against loss resulting from non-payment by their customers overseas. The policy will reimburse a percentage of any outstanding debts due to the customer if they default or become insolvent.
The policy usually has a coverage cap, the maximum amount of money an insurance company will pay if a claim occurs. The policy may include a deductible. It is the amount of money that the business will have to pay out-of-pocket before the insurance provider pays on a claim.
Export credit coverage requires businesses to provide creditworthiness information for their customers overseas, such as financial statements or credit reports. Payment histories are also required. The insurer uses this information to determine the policy’s risk levels and premiums.
Choose the Right Export Insurance Policy
Consider the following factors when choosing a policy to protect export credits:
Coverage Limit
Coverage limits are the maximum amounts an insurer will pay out if a claim exists. Businesses need to choose a coverage limit that will protect them against the level of credit risk on the international markets.
Deductible
The deductible is the amount you must pay yourself before your insurance company pays for your claim. Businesses should select a financial-sensible deductible.
Premium Rate
The premium rate a business pays for its policy is called the premium rate. Businesses can compare premium rates and select the policy that offers the most value for their money.
Policy Exclusions
Exclusions may limit the coverage. Businesses should carefully review and understand policy exclusions.
Policy Terms
Export credit policies may differ in terms and conditions that can affect coverage. It is important that businesses review their policy terms in order to fully understand how much protection they are receiving.
Reputation of the Insurance Company
Businesses should only choose insurance companies with a positive reputation and an established track record for paying out a claim. Financial strength can have an impact on the ability of the insurer to pay out.
Conclusion
Export credit insurance provides valuable coverage for businesses in international trade that wish to manage credit risk and improve cash flow. This insurance protects against the risks associated with customer defaults, insolvency issues, and political events that could affect the customer’s ability to make payments. Export credit coverage can improve a business’s cash flow, offer better credit terms and enhance relationships with lenders. Businesses need to consider several factors when choosing an export credit policy. These include the coverage limit (limitation), deductible rate, premium amount, policy conditions, policy clauses, and insurance company reputation.