Trade Finance

What trade finance covers

Trade finance covers financing arrangements that help businesses manage the timing gap between paying suppliers and receiving payment from customers. For importers, this typically means bridging the gap between paying overseas suppliers and receiving payment from domestic customers. Trade finance facilities can be structured as import finance lines, supplier payment facilities, letters of credit or revolving credit limits.

Who needs trade finance

• Importers paying overseas suppliers before receiving customer payment
• Exporters requiring pre-shipment or post-shipment finance
• Distributors and wholesalers managing stock payment timing
• Manufacturers with large upfront material costs
• Businesses with growing sales but increasing working capital pressure

How lenders assess trade finance applications

• Business trading history and financial performance
• Management accounts and BAS
• Supplier and customer terms and contracts
• Debtor and creditor ageing
• Existing debt and security position
• Director background and business experience
• Facility size and purpose

How Bridle Partners helps

• Understanding your cash-flow cycle and funding gap
• Identifying suitable trade finance lenders for your business profile
• Structuring the facility appropriately
• Preparing and presenting the application
• Working with your accountant where required

Frequently asked questions

What types of trade finance does Bridle Partners arrange?

We assist with import finance, supplier payment facilities, letters of credit, trade lines and revolving business credit facilities. The right structure depends on your business model, payment timing, trading terms and lender appetite.

Is trade finance only available to importers?

No. Trade finance is commonly used by importers, but similar facilities may also assist exporters, distributors and businesses with supplier-customer timing gaps.

Can I get trade finance without property security?

Some lenders offer unsecured trade finance facilities, depending on the business profile, financial strength and facility size. Others may require property security, stock or guarantees.

How quickly can trade finance be approved?

Timeframes vary by lender and facility complexity. Some trade finance facilities can be approved and established within a few weeks. We work to match you with lenders who can meet your timing requirements.

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