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While commonly used for international trade, trade finance is also available for UK-based supply chains.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"How much can I borrow through trade finance?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Loan amounts typically range from £10,000 to £5 million, depending on your business, order size, and trade volumes.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Do I need collateral for trade finance?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Some lenders offer unsecured trade finance. 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The first cash flow problem is the delay between paying suppliers and receiving stock, and the other is the delay between shipping goods to your customers and getting paid via invoice.\",\"nodeType\":\"text\"}],\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\"}],\"nodeType\":\"document\"}"}},{"title":"Two solutions","icon":"Wallet","description":{"raw":"{\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"data\":{},\"marks\":[],\"value\":\"Trade finance is designed to solve the first of those two issues — and \",\"nodeType\":\"text\"},{\"data\":{\"uri\":\"https://www.fundingoptions.com/knowledge/invoice-finance/\"},\"content\":[{\"data\":{},\"marks\":[],\"value\":\"invoice finance\",\"nodeType\":\"text\"}],\"nodeType\":\"hyperlink\"},{\"data\":{},\"marks\":[],\"value\":\" can solve the second.\",\"nodeType\":\"text\"}],\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\"}],\"nodeType\":\"document\"}"}},{"title":"Payment delay","icon":"Banking institution","description":{"raw":"{\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"data\":{},\"marks\":[],\"value\":\"If it takes two weeks for your goods to arrive from the supplier, two weeks to get them to the customer, and then your customer pays you on 30-day terms, you'll be out of pocket for two months before being paid. Trade finance takes the supplier payment delay out of the equation, but you'll still have to wait to get paid by your customer.\",\"nodeType\":\"text\"}],\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\"}],\"nodeType\":\"document\"}"}},{"title":"Invoice finance","icon":"Hand holding coins","description":{"raw":"{\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"data\":{},\"marks\":[],\"value\":\"With invoice finance in place, you'll get most of the invoice value as soon as you invoice your customer — so you can repay the trade finance lender earlier. You could get trade and invoice finance with separate lenders or package it into one with the same lender for simplicity.\",\"nodeType\":\"text\"}],\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\"}],\"nodeType\":\"document\"}"}},{"title":"Standalone trade finance","icon":"Money bill","description":{"raw":"{\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"data\":{},\"marks\":[],\"value\":\"But it's important to note that you don't have to have invoice finance — you can have standalone trade finance if that's a better fit for your business.\",\"nodeType\":\"text\"}],\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\"}],\"nodeType\":\"document\"}"}}],"sys":{"contentType":{"sys":{"id":"templatesV2SectionFinancialProductInfo"}}}},{"title":"Estimate your costs today","description":"If you're ready to take your business to the next level, use our business loans calculator to get an idea of what you can afford.","calculatorType":"Business loans","sys":{"contentType":{"sys":{"id":"templatesV2SectionCalculator"}}}},{"sys":{"contentType":{"sys":{"id":"templatesV2SectionAccordion"}}},"title":"Learn more about trade finance","accordion":{"accordionItem":[{"id":"7757f869-fad3-5dbf-993c-d7da2ad62b6e","label":"Trade finance vs supply chain finance","content":{"raw":"{\"nodeType\":\"document\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Trade finance is sometimes confused with \",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}},{\"nodeType\":\"hyperlink\",\"data\":{\"uri\":\"https://www.fundingoptions.com/knowledge/supply-chain-finance/\"},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"supply chain finance\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\", and it's an easy mistake because trade finance helps you fund the beginning of your supply chain. However, \",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}},{\"nodeType\":\"hyperlink\",\"data\":{\"uri\":\"https://www.fundingoptions.com/knowledge/supply-chain-finance/\"},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"supply chain finance\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\" is a different type of business lending that buyers offer to their suppliers and doesn't apply here.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]}]}"}},{"id":"02f5b41d-f2bf-52d1-87d4-c327750cf5ee","label":"Companies and providers","content":{"raw":"{\"nodeType\":\"document\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Many firms are operating in trade finance, however, generally, the mainstream banks such as HSBC and Barclays will only work with well-established businesses with turnover in the £millions, so they're not an option for smaller firms. These larger lenders, including large independents like Bibby, will only offer trade finance when combined with invoice finance.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"However, many smaller lenders also offer trade finance, invoice finance, or a combination, including Woodsford Tradebridge, Aldermore and Ultimate Finance. With these providers, you may have the option to choose whether or not you'd like invoice finance included.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"There are also a few specialist lenders that only offer standalone trade finance. This category includes companies like Goldcrest and Senaca.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"If you're looking for the right trade finance lender for your situation, make an application or get in touch, and we'll help you find the best option quickly.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]}]}"}},{"id":"77125690-4053-5e55-a345-f5e8f2518dd7","label":"Eligibility and criteria","content":{"raw":"{\"nodeType\":\"document\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"There are two key questions to ask to find out if trade finance is right for your business:\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"unordered-list\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"list-item\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Have you got a purchase order you need to fund?\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]}]},{\"nodeType\":\"list-item\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Do you want to import or export products for resale?\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]}]}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"If the answer to these questions is yes, trade finance could help you grow your business. And trade financiers aren't as concerned about what's on your balance sheet as mainstream lenders — what they want to know is: \",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}},{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"\\\"what's the transaction, how much will it grow your business, and who else is involved?\\\"\",\"marks\":[{\"type\":\"italic\"}],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Trade finance is generally for companies with good supply chains and end-buyers but doesn't have the \",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}},{\"nodeType\":\"hyperlink\",\"data\":{\"uri\":\"https://www.fundingoptions.com/knowledge/working-capital-finance/\"},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"working capital\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\" to go it alone.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]}]}"}},{"id":"7c2f3333-813a-5ab2-862a-7c82745e5485","label":"Interest rates","content":{"raw":"{\"nodeType\":\"document\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"The interest rates for trade finance are usually between 1.25% and 3% per 30 days. Generally speaking, the larger the order, the lower the rate you'll pay. The cost of finance will also depend on the supplier and buyer you're working with because they affect the chances of something going wrong.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Another factor that affects the cost of trade finance is credit protection. Credit protection means the lender will be liable for the loss your customer doesn't pay, which adds to the price because of the additional risk. However, some businesses will find this extra cost worth it for the added peace of mind.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Finally, it's worth remembering that having invoice finance alongside trade finance may add to the overall cost — so although it's a good option for some businesses, it's not necessarily the right option for everyone.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]}]}"}},{"id":"21d7387d-0853-52b4-9a84-d0d6ebe6070e","label":"What is trade finance in simple terms?","content":{"raw":"{\"nodeType\":\"document\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Trade finance helps businesses pay suppliers and cover costs while waiting for payment from customers ; especially useful for importers and exporters.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]}]}"}},{"id":"0aa5699b-b435-5260-a749-8fa4601cff6a","label":"Can I use trade finance for domestic trade?","content":{"raw":"{\"nodeType\":\"document\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Yes. While commonly used for international trade, trade finance is also available for UK-based supply chains.\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]}]}"}}],"expandedAccordionItems":null}},{"sys":{"contentType":{"sys":{"id":"templatesV2SectionDisclaimer"}}},"disclaimer":{"raw":"{\"nodeType\":\"document\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Please note that the information above is not intended to be financial advice. You should seek independent financial advice before making any decisions about your financial future.\",\"marks\":[{\"type\":\"italic\"}],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"It’s important to remember that all loans and credit agreements come with risks. These risks include non-payment and late-payment of the agreed repayment plan, which could affect your business credit score and impact your ability to find future funding. Always read the terms and conditions of every loan or credit agreement before you proceed. Contact us for support if you ever face difficulties making your repayments.\",\"marks\":[{\"type\":\"italic\"}],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"Funding Options, now part of Tide, helps UK firms access business finance, working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. Funding Options are a credit broker and do not provide loans directly. All finance and quotes are subject to status and income. Applicants must be aged 18 and over and terms and conditions apply. Guarantees and Indemnities may be required. Funding Options can introduce applicants to a number of providers based on the applicants' circumstances and creditworthiness. Funding Options will receive a commission or finder’s fee for effecting such finance introductions.\",\"marks\":[{\"type\":\"italic\"}],\"data\":{}}]},{\"nodeType\":\"paragraph\",\"data\":{},\"content\":[{\"nodeType\":\"text\",\"value\":\"\\n\",\"marks\":[],\"data\":{}}]}]}"}}],"author":{"name":"Joe Morley","jobTitle":"Business Finance Lead","slug":"joe-morley","shortBio":{"shortBio":"Joe has been helping UK businesses secure the funding they need since 2015. Over the years, he’s supported hundreds of SMEs in accessing millions of pounds for everything from purchasing essential assets to unlocking working capital for day-to-day operations. As Head of Sales at Funding Options, Joe leads a large team of expert Business Finance Specialists dedicated to finding the right solution for every customer. His goal is simple - to make securing finance straightforward, stress free, and tailored to each business’s needs."},"image":{"title":"Joe Morley","gatsbyImageData":{"images":{"sources":[{"srcSet":"https://images.ctfassets.net/7y9qslt4dryp/7fM6foUkI5z6EJqFGwRDz2/b91af08b8550ad38dc3c63069a6ef2eb/Joe_Morley.png?w=32&h=32&q=50&fm=webp 32w,\nhttps://images.ctfassets.net/7y9qslt4dryp/7fM6foUkI5z6EJqFGwRDz2/b91af08b8550ad38dc3c63069a6ef2eb/Joe_Morley.png?w=64&h=64&q=50&fm=webp 64w,\nhttps://images.ctfassets.net/7y9qslt4dryp/7fM6foUkI5z6EJqFGwRDz2/b91af08b8550ad38dc3c63069a6ef2eb/Joe_Morley.png?w=128&h=128&q=50&fm=webp 128w","sizes":"(min-width: 128px) 128px, 100vw","type":"image/webp"}],"fallback":{"src":"https://images.ctfassets.net/7y9qslt4dryp/7fM6foUkI5z6EJqFGwRDz2/b91af08b8550ad38dc3c63069a6ef2eb/Joe_Morley.png?w=128&h=128&q=50&fm=png","srcSet":"https://images.ctfassets.net/7y9qslt4dryp/7fM6foUkI5z6EJqFGwRDz2/b91af08b8550ad38dc3c63069a6ef2eb/Joe_Morley.png?w=32&h=32&q=50&fm=png 32w,\nhttps://images.ctfassets.net/7y9qslt4dryp/7fM6foUkI5z6EJqFGwRDz2/b91af08b8550ad38dc3c63069a6ef2eb/Joe_Morley.png?w=64&h=64&q=50&fm=png 64w,\nhttps://images.ctfassets.net/7y9qslt4dryp/7fM6foUkI5z6EJqFGwRDz2/b91af08b8550ad38dc3c63069a6ef2eb/Joe_Morley.png?w=128&h=128&q=50&fm=png 128w","sizes":"(min-width: 128px) 128px, 100vw"}},"layout":"constrained","width":128,"height":128}}}}},"staticQueryHashes":["1250078025","1659198851","3682024094","3753363658"]}