Top Tips
Disclose and Agree Payment Terms Before you Supply Goods or Services

'Well begun is half done', as the saying goes.

Get a signed contract:

Set out payment terms in writing and obtain your customers acceptance of these terms with a signature BEFORE you supply goods or services. Your Contract, Terms of Trade, credit Policy doesn't need to be a long and complex document. However it should cover the basics; a simple, plain English, contract / credit policy that clearly states your obligations as a supplier; the customer's obligations of how and when to pay; your policy for handling disputes; and penalties and collection costs for late or non payment is a good place to start.

Every new customer needs to know, from the very beginning, how you expect to conduct business. And DO NOT be afraid to ask existing customers to review and sign any new or revised Terms of Trade.

Purpose written Terms of Trade:

A purpose written Terms of Trade should protect your rights, limit your liabilities and provide security in the transaction. Include the Legal name and any trading name/s in your contract/s and / or Terms of Trade.

Your terms of trade should include the following:

The legal name of client/debtor

Your legal right to payment for goods or services supplied

Payment options

Payment deadlines

Penalties (default interest, collection and legal costs) for late payments

The provision of a personal guarantee

Other terms and conditions unique to your business

The law is there to protect you

To celebrate the launch of the new Shark Patrol web site, we're offering a 15% discount off our Terms of Trade package.

Top Tips


Tip 1: Know your customer

Check the exact name and legal status of each of your customers (you will need this if you ever have to take legal action to recover a debt).

Tip 2: Agree payment terms before you supply

Do not assume that you will be paid on 30 days or end of month following.

Tip 3: Invoice accurately, clearly and promptly

Attention to detail can make all the difference in getting paid on time.

Tip 4: Do not be afraid to ask for payment

The only good customer is a paying customer, and if you don't ask ...

Tip 5: Improving Cash Flow

Did you know that by using a third party (such as us), to undertake your credit control, can improve your cash flow by as much as 40%?

More Top Tips ...