Financial security is paramount in foreign trade transactions. Common payment methods include Telegraphic Transfer (T/T), Letter of Credit (L/C), and Collection. T/T is simple but carries higher risk; for new clients, it is generally recommended to use a "30% deposit + balance before shipment / against copy of B/L" model to mitigate risk. L/C provides a bank credit guarantee and is highly secure, but involves complex procedures requiring strict term review to ensure document compliance. Collection (such as Documents against Payment, D/P) relies on the bank only as an intermediary without assuming payment liability, carrying higher risk; it should only be used when the buyer's credit is fully understood. Additionally, companies should actively utilize export credit insurance and other tools to hedge against buyer default risks.

Core International Payment Methods and Risk Mitigation