WeldPayment terms are part of the vehicle specification — they should be as clear as the engine size. This guide explains the standard payment structures used for international three-wheeler orders, what each term means, and how to protect both sides.
Why payment terms matter
A three-wheeler order is a working asset, not a consumer purchase. Both buyer and seller carry risk between the deposit and the container arriving. Clear terms remove most of that risk before it starts.
The standard structure: deposit + balance
The most common structure for export vehicle orders is a deposit to confirm and reserve, and the balance before loading. The deposit covers production or stock reservation and material; the balance releases the unit for shipment. Percentages vary by order size and relationship — the exact split is written on the proforma invoice.
Telegraphic transfer (TT)
TT is the most direct method. Funds are wired to the seller’s bank account. Confirm the beneficiary name and account match the contract exactly — mismatched beneficiary details are the most common cause of payment delays. TT works well for deposits and for mid-size orders.
Letter of credit (LC)
An LC is a bank-backed commitment: the buyer’s bank guarantees payment once the seller presents the required documents (invoice, packing list, Bill of Lading and any certificate). LCs suit large orders or new relationships. They cost more in bank fees and take time to set up, so they are worth it mainly when the order size justifies the paperwork.
What to confirm before paying
Confirm the currency, the receiving bank details in writing, the payment milestones (deposit, balance), and the documents you will receive at each stage. Ask for the proforma invoice before any payment — it is the reference document for the whole order.
Protecting yourself
Match the seller’s legal name and bank account to the contract. Ask for current photos or video of the allocated units before the balance payment. Use a third-party surveyor (SGS, Bureau Veritas or similar) for large orders. Keep the deposit at a level you are comfortable risking, and make sure the balance is tied to a loading milestone, not a promise.
The short answer
Deposit to confirm, balance before loading, everything in writing on the proforma invoice, and photos or survey before the final payment. The same discipline protects both buyer and seller.
Related reading
How to Verify a Three-Wheeler Supplier Before You Order · How to Calculate the Real Landed Cost of Your Tricycle Order · How to Plan a Tricycle Fleet Budget
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