A bill of lading (B/L) indicating that the exporter consigns a shipment to an international carrier for transportation to a specified foreign market. Unlike an inland B/L, the ocean B/L also serves as a collection document. If it is a "straight" B/L, the foreign buyer can obtain the shipment from the carrier by simply showing proof of identity. If a "negotiable" B/L is used, the buyer must first pay for the goods, post a bond, or meet other conditions agreeable to the seller. Compare Air waybill, Inland bill of lading, and Through bill of lading.

A trade arrangement in which goods are shipped to a foreign buyer without guarantee of payment. The obvious risk this method poses to the supplier makes it essential that the buyer's integrity be unquestionable.

A marine insurance policy that applies to all shipments made by an exporter over a period of time rather than to one shipment only.

A negotiable bill of lading made out to the order of the shipper.

A list showing the number and kinds of items being shipped, as well as other information needed for transportation purposes.

The postal authorities' signed acknowledgment of delivery to receiver of a shipment made by parcel post.

Private Export Funding Corporation. A corporation that lends to foreign buyers to finance exports from the United States.

A marine insurance term used to designate heavy weather, stranding, lightning, collision, and sea water damage

A certificate, issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to satisfy import regulations for foreign countries, indicating that a U.S. shipment has been inspected and is free from harmful pests and plant diseases.

In export financing, the risk of loss due to such causes as currency inconvertibility, government action preventing entry of goods, expropriation or confiscation, and war.

An invoice provided by a supplier prior to the shipment of merchandise, informing the buyer of the kinds and quantities of goods to be sent, their value, and important specifications (weight, size, etc.)

An agent who purchases goods in his or her own country on behalf of foreign importers such as government agencies and large private concerns.

The quantity of goods of a specific kind that a country permits to be imported without restriction or imposition of additional duties

An offer to sell goods at a stated price and under specified conditions.