Safety Tips for Sellers
As an exporter, your reputation depends on clear communication, reliable fulfilment, and smart payment practices. Follow these tips to build trust with buyers and protect your business from fraud.
Providing Clear Product Information
- Write a detailed product description. Include product origin, quality grade, condition, authenticity, and any certifications or standards relevant to your buyers.
- Include product photographs. Clear, accurate images reduce misunderstandings and build buyer confidence.
- State your after-sale policies. Clearly describe warranty terms, exchange options, and return policies in your listing.
- Respond promptly to enquiries. Quick, clear responses prevent misunderstandings and signal professionalism to buyers.
- Red flag: Be cautious of buyers who are not concerned with product costs or specifications - this can indicate fraudulent intent or that the buyer plans to dispute after payment.
- Red flag: Exercise extra caution with buyers whose delivery addresses are in countries with known high rates of trade fraud.
Shipping Arrangements
- Specify payment responsibility upfront. Agree in writing on who pays for shipping and insurance before the order is confirmed.
- Provide shipping documentation. Send the buyer copies of all shipping documents (e.g. bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list) once goods are dispatched. Retain originals for your own records.
- Use trackable shipping. Choose a shipping carrier that provides online tracking and share the tracking details with the buyer.
Choosing a Payment Method
The right payment method protects your revenue and reduces the risk of chargebacks or non-payment.
| Payment Method |
Speed |
Seller Risk |
Notes |
| International Wire Transfers |
Fast |
Low |
Payment received directly. Low risk of default once confirmed. |
| Credit Card |
Fast |
Moderate |
Risk of chargebacks. Verify bank authorisation and confirm card is not stolen before shipping. |
| Escrow Service |
Moderate |
Low - Moderate |
Payment held until buyer confirms receipt. Only use reputable, verified escrow providers. |
| Letter of Credit (LC) |
Slow |
Low |
Bank-backed guarantee. Recommended for large orders. |
Important on escrow: If a buyer insists on a specific escrow service provider, ask for their reason. Fraudulent escrow platforms exist and are used to deceive sellers. Always independently verify any escrow service before agreeing to use it.
Establish clear payment terms. Agree with the buyer on a payment deadline and make clear how long you will hold inventory before the order is cancelled.
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