How to Get Approved for Trade Finance: 8 Things Lenders Want to See
How to Get Approved for Trade Finance: 8 Things Lenders Want to See
Here are 8 things real lenders and LC issuers want to see before they move.
Trade finance isn't about who asks — it’s about who qualifies. Lenders don’t fund vague promises or unstructured deals. They fund well-prepared operators with real contracts and clean files. Whether you’re requesting a letter of credit, pre-shipment facility, or structured note — here’s what separates approvals from rejections.
1. A Real Contract or Deal Summary
You need a commercial reason to raise capital. That means a signed purchase order, supply agreement, LOI, or export contract. If your buyer isn’t committed, your lender won’t be either.
2. Supplier or Source Confirmation
Lenders want to know your supplier exists and is ready. Include quotations, draft invoices, or verified emails showing readiness to ship. Even better if it’s a repeat relationship.
3. Defined Trade Value and Margin
Be specific. What's the total value of the trade? What’s your cost? What’s the margin? Lenders don’t need perfect spreadsheets — but they need logic. If you can’t explain how you make money, they’ll assume you won’t.
4. Timeline and Payment Terms
A timeline lets the lender manage repayment risk. Include shipment dates, payment terms with your buyer, and your LC or invoice deadlines. If your buyer pays in 120 days, say so — and structure accordingly.
5. Your Company’s Trading History or Experience
You don’t need 10 years of history — but lenders want to know you’ve done this before. If it’s your first trade, show you have experienced partners or team members. Add any trade documentation from prior shipments if available.
6. Legal Entity and Bank Details
This seems basic, but many applicants skip it. Make sure you submit:
- Registered company certificate or SPV docs
- Corporate KYC
- Bank account details
- Authorized signatories
7. Clarity on Instrument Type
If you need an LC, say whether it’s DLC, SBLC, UPAS, or transferable. If you’re requesting pre-shipment finance, state whether the loan is secured by a contract, inventory, or just the receivable. Ambiguity kills interest.
8. A Sponsor Willing to Commit
Are you putting anything in? Even a small contribution shows alignment. Investors want to know you’re serious, not just looking for a free ride. Having “skin in the game” doesn’t have to mean cash — it can also be contracts, guarantees, or services.
Want to Get Approved for Trade Finance?
We help qualified businesses build fundable deal files and match them with real lenders and LC desks globally. Submit your trade or book a strategy call today.
Submit Your Deal Book a 1:1 CallGet Trade Finance Approved — With Structure, Not Speculation
At Financely, we work with sponsors across trade, commodities, and project supply chains to get deals funded — fast. But only if they’re prepared. A well-prepared deal file, clean terms, and real documentation will open the door. Vague, incomplete requests get ignored. If you want trade finance in 2025, give lenders what they need — and we’ll help get you funded.
Get Started With Us
Submit Your Deal & Receive a Proposal Within 1-3 Working Days
Submit your deal using our secure intake form, and receive a quote within 1-3 business days. Existing clients can connect with their relationship manager through our secure web portal.
All submissions are
promptly reviewed, and all communications are conducted through the intake form or the client portal for a seamless and secure process.
Thank you for considering working with us. A nominal fee of US$500 is required upon completion of each form. This fee covers the time and effort we invest in reviewing your submission and crafting a thorough proposal. We receive numerous inquiries and prioritize those that carry this fee, ensuring serious applicants receive prompt attention.
Trade Finance
Tap into solutions like letters of credit, bank guarantees, and payment facilitation. We address the challenge of global transaction risk through structured strategies that foster cross-border growth. Complete the form to unlock streamlined funding aligned with your commercial objectives.
Submit a RequestProject Finance
Access non-recourse funding for infrastructure, renewable energy, or other capital-intensive ventures. We mitigate capital constraints by isolating project assets and focusing on risk management. Provide your details to receive a structure that drives growth and maximizes returns.
Submit a RequestAcquisitions
Secure financing for business or real estate acquisitions. We ease transaction hurdles by reviewing cash flow, synergy opportunities, and exit plans. Complete the form for a customized proposal that supports your strategic investment objectives.
Submit a RequestFor Banks
Financely assists banks facing Basel III pressures by distributing trade finance deals and providing collateral for letters of credit. We reduce capital burdens while preserving client relationships and fostering service expansion. Submit your request to optimize your trade finance offerings.
Submit a RequestOnce we receive your submission, our team will review your information to determine feasibility. If eligible, you will receive a proposal or term sheet within 1–3 business days. Visit our FAQ and Procedure pages for more information.
Disclaimer: Financely provides financing based on due diligence and feasibility. Approval is not guaranteed, and past performance does not predict future outcomes. All terms are subject to review. Financely primarily assists with structuring and distribution. Qualified parties carry out the project if the client approves the proposal.
