Insurance for exporting and importing

If your business is new to exporting or importing, it is important to assess and plan for the different risks you will invariably face. When you evaluate the risks of your potential customers, remember also to look into risks associated with the countries in which they operate. See insurance: export and import risks.

As well as physical loss or damage to goods, you need to plan for problems of cashflow to allow for the time that goods are in transit or in bonded warehouses here or abroad and/or heightened risk of non-payment by your customers. In some cases you also need to plan for risks associated with faulty goods or services.

This guide outlines the key risks you should consider and the available insurance and financing options. It also provides links to experts who can offer you advice or find you insurance.