Trade credit insurance protects businesses from financial losses caused by customer non-payment due to insolvency or default. In today’s uncertain economy, having the right carrier is critical to safeguarding your cash flow. Here’s a quick breakdown of seven top carriers offering tailored policies for U.S. businesses in October 2025:
- Accounts Receivable Insurance (ARI): Focuses on personalized policies with flexible credit limits and export coverage. Offers advanced risk assessment tools and strong customer support.
- Allianz Trade: Provides global coverage across 200+ countries with tailored solutions and AI-powered risk analytics.
- Coface: Known for expertise in emerging markets, offers industry-specific policies and strong international collections support.
- Atradius: Features modular policies, digital tools for risk management, and a focus on collections.
- Chubb: Offers bespoke coverage for high-value accounts and specialized industries, with dedicated account management.
- AIG: Delivers flexible, multi-region policies with advanced analytics and comprehensive claims support.
- QBE: Offers SME-friendly products, top-up insurance, and global coverage through Lloyd’s of London.
Each carrier excels in specific areas like policy customization, global reach, or risk management tools. Choose based on your business size, industry, and exposure to domestic or international risks.
Quick Comparison
| Carrier | Customization Options | Coverage Scope | Digital Tools | Claims Management | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARI | Fully tailored policies | Domestic & international | Risk assessment tools | Hands-on broker support | Personalized service, export focus |
| Allianz Trade | Flexible credit limits | 200+ countries | AI-powered analytics | Automated claims processing | Global expertise |
| Coface | Industry-specific options | 100+ countries | Real-time monitoring | Local expertise | Emerging market focus |
| Atradius | Modular policies | 50+ countries | Atrium platform | Efficient claims handling | Strong in collections |
| Chubb | Bespoke high-value coverage | Worldwide | Online management tools | White-glove service | Premium service quality |
| AIG | Highly flexible policies | 220+ countries | Advanced analytics | Global claims network | Complex risk solutions |
| QBE | SME-focused & top-up options | 27 countries | QRisk platform | Proactive risk management | Lloyd’s market access |
When selecting a carrier, consider your business’s specific needs, whether domestic or international, and the level of support required. Each provider offers unique strengths to help protect your accounts receivable and maintain financial stability.
C-suite speaks: How trade credit insurance is adapting to US market anticipation
1. Accounts Receivable Insurance (ARI)
Accounts Receivable Insurance (ARI) stands out as a leader in trade credit insurance by offering tailored solutions that protect businesses from risks like non-payment, bankruptcy, and political instability. Their focus on personalized policy design ensures that businesses get the protection they need to navigate challenging financial landscapes.
Policy Customization Options
ARI works closely with businesses to craft policies that align with their specific risk profiles. This includes setting custom credit limits and offering flexible endorsements that allow coverage adjustments as circumstances evolve. For example, businesses dealing with seasonal sales spikes or exploring new markets can modify their policies to match these changing needs.
Domestic and International Coverage
ARI’s flexible policies extend to both domestic and international markets, making them a solid choice for businesses with diverse customer bases. Their export credit insurance safeguards overseas transactions, even in the face of challenges like currency fluctuations or political unrest.
Thanks to their global network of credit insurance carriers, ARI ensures consistent coverage standards, whether a business is operating locally or serving clients across borders.
Risk Assessment and Claims Management Tools
To help businesses manage credit risks effectively, ARI employs advanced tools to evaluate the financial health and creditworthiness of their customers. These tools enable businesses to set safe credit limits for each client, reducing the likelihood of extending credit to high-risk customers.
ARI also provides ongoing monitoring, offering real-time updates on customer creditworthiness by tapping into data from millions of businesses worldwide. This proactive approach equips businesses with the insights needed to make informed decisions about extending credit.
When it comes to claims, ARI streamlines the process for quick and efficient resolution. Once a claim is approved, businesses are reimbursed for losses caused by issues like customer bankruptcy, insolvency, or prolonged default. Some policies even include added benefits like debt collection services, which assist in recovering unpaid invoices.
Financial Strength and Market Reputation
ARI combines competitive rates with dedicated broker support, ensuring accessibility for businesses of all sizes. Beyond offering protection, they emphasize building long-term relationships by providing pre-claim support and assistance with policy renewals.
With 24/7 customer service and a focus on proactive interventions, ARI positions itself as a dependable partner for businesses seeking comprehensive accounts receivable insurance. Their commitment to client success extends far beyond simply processing claims.
2. Allianz Trade
Allianz Trade specializes in providing trade credit insurance on a global scale, offering policies designed to meet the specific needs of businesses. Their approach focuses on creating solutions that adapt to various market challenges, ensuring businesses receive the support they need.
Customized Policies and Worldwide Reach
With a strong international presence, Allianz Trade offers the flexibility to craft policies that align with the unique requirements of businesses. Whether operating locally or engaging in international trade, their solutions are tailored to address specific risks and opportunities effectively.
3. Coface
Coface is a prominent trade credit insurer with a vast global presence, offering tailored solutions to help businesses safeguard their operations in both domestic and international markets. Operating in over 100 countries and covering 200 markets worldwide, Coface’s reach allows them to craft solutions that address specific risks unique to each market.
Policy Customization Options
Coface designs its trade credit insurance policies to align with the unique needs of businesses, regardless of their size. For multinational corporations, GlobaLiner offers a specialized solution supported by dedicated teams. These policies include protection against political risks, such as non-payment due to political events, climate-related disruptions, currency restrictions, trade interruptions, and expropriation. This makes Coface especially valuable for companies navigating unpredictable international markets.
Domestic and International Coverage
Coface provides comprehensive coverage for both domestic and export markets, leveraging a global network of specialists to deliver localized expertise. Their team of economists, underwriters, and analysts works closely with businesses to develop growth strategies while minimizing risk. This support integrates seamlessly into Coface’s broader risk management framework, offering businesses the tools they need to expand securely.
"We can’t predict the future. But we can help you understand and analyse the risks associated with proper customer payment while guaranteeing you first-class protection. When you partner with Coface, you have access to all the qualified information and assessments you need to manage your credit decisions. This means you can offer competitive credit terms with complete confidence. Our solutions give you the peace of mind you need to develop your business: you minimize risks and open the door to new opportunities for growth!"
– Cyrille CHARBONNEL, Group Underwriting Director
Coface also excels in international collections, with a network of over 300 experts dedicated to recovering unpaid invoices efficiently across multiple jurisdictions. This ensures businesses can manage receivables effectively, no matter where their operations are based.
Risk Assessment and Claims Management Tools
Coface monitors millions of businesses worldwide, providing critical insights to support informed decision-making. With detailed data on 190 million companies across 185 countries and 13 industries, businesses gain unparalleled visibility into their customer base. The Coface Risk Dashboard acts as a digital hub, enabling program managers to track global exposure – including that of subsidiaries – and implement cohesive risk management strategies across international operations.
Financial Strength and Market Reputation
With risk experts in 46 countries and coverage extending to over 195 nations, Coface combines local expertise with a global outlook to handle complex trade relationships.
Beyond offering traditional insurance, Coface positions itself as a strategic partner for businesses looking to expand internationally. Their extensive monitoring capabilities and expert network provide the confidence businesses need to explore new opportunities while maintaining effective risk controls.
4. Atradius
Atradius stands out with its Modula policy, a modular solution designed to offer tailored coverage. This flexible approach allows businesses to customize their policies to meet specific risks and exposures. While customization is a common theme among top providers, Atradius sets itself apart with a strong focus on digital tools that enhance risk management.
Policy Customization Options
The Modula policy’s modular design lets companies choose coverage elements that align with their unique needs. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, businesses can craft bespoke policies. For example, Ingram Micro worked closely with Atradius’s Global team to create coverage tailored to its worldwide operations. Similarly, L’Oréal Hong Kong developed a policy focused on regional goals and growth plans. This modular structure ensures businesses can scale from local to global coverage with ease.
Domestic and International Coverage
Atradius offers comprehensive coverage for both domestic and international clients, protecting businesses from risks like customer bankruptcy, payment defaults, or political instability. Its global teams provide localized expertise across various countries, currencies, and languages.
For multinational companies, Atradius assigns a dedicated Global team that mirrors the client’s geographic structure. Metalco Inc., based in Chicago, Illinois, uses Atradius Trade Credit Insurance to secure opportunities across North America. This global consistency is further supported by multilingual underwriters and legal experts, ensuring policies remain clear and effective regardless of regional differences.
"The relationship and service levels provided by Atradius are second to none. Atradius fully understands our business needs and requirements." – Vishnu Gopie, General Manager, Credit & AR, LG Electronics LTD
Risk Assessment and Claims Management Tools
Atradius enhances risk management with a suite of digital tools, including Atradius Insights, Atrium, and Collect@Net. These tools simplify processes like risk monitoring, portfolio analysis, and debt recovery. Their effectiveness was recognized with the Oracle Fusion Middleware Innovation Award.
"I’m very glad that Atradius involved us, as a customer, in developing this tool. You need to be as proactive as possible, and this tool helps me to do that." – Arne Antonsson, Global Chief Credit Officer, Electrolux Group
These tools underscore Atradius’s proactive approach to risk management, helping businesses stay ahead in an ever-changing market.
Financial Strength and Market Reputation
Atradius combines its trade credit insurance with global B2B debt collection services and advanced digital solutions. This integrated approach simplifies complex trade relationships across multiple jurisdictions, positioning Atradius as a trusted partner for businesses navigating global markets.
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5. Chubb
Chubb provides trade credit insurance solutions designed specifically to align with each client’s unique risk profile. Their diverse range of options allows businesses to select coverage that matches their specific needs, addressing the demand for customized protection in today’s unpredictable credit markets.
Policy Customization Options
Chubb offers a variety of coverage types to meet different business requirements:
- Multi-Buyer Coverage: Protects an entire accounts receivable portfolio with non-cancellable coverage that applies beyond a deductible.
- Named Customer Coverage: Focuses on high-exposure accounts.
- Single Customer Coverage: Provides protection for critical accounts.
- Credit Complete®: Acts as an excess layer when primary coverage doesn’t fully address the risk.
Additional options include extensions to cover risks such as insolvency, default, country-specific challenges, and political instability.
Domestic and International Coverage
Chubb’s policies are designed to adapt to the needs of businesses operating in both domestic and international markets. Whether covering individual accounts or entire portfolios, their solutions offer flexibility and reliability. With non-cancellable limits, policyholders have the assurance of consistent coverage throughout the policy term.
Risk Assessment and Claims Management Tools
Chubb takes a hands-on approach to underwriting, pairing dedicated underwriters with clients from the initial quote to claims resolution. This collaborative process ensures that decisions are made quickly and are tailored to the client’s specific needs.
"At Chubb, we also understand that all businesses are different with specific needs. Our underwriters work closely with our clients and are able to take fast decisions on different aspects of their cover."
– Chubb
Financial Strength and Market Reputation
Chubb’s commitment to understanding each client’s business model allows them to create solutions that go beyond generic templates. This personalized approach makes them a strong choice for businesses with complex or specialized risk profiles that require tailored insurance arrangements. Their attention to detail and flexibility have earned them a solid reputation in the market.
6. AIG
With over 35 years of experience in trade credit insurance, AIG offers businesses a combination of global reach and local expertise. They specialize in creating tailored protection solutions that address diverse markets and complex risk scenarios.
Policy Customization Options
AIG stands out by offering highly flexible policy designs tailored to meet specific business needs. Their offerings include Comprehensive Domestic and Export Credit Insurance, targeted Accounts Receivable Coverage for Key Customers (including subsidiaries under the DECI form), and multi-region coverage. These policies help businesses safeguard against risks like insolvency, protracted default, and foreign exchange restrictions.
Domestic and International Coverage
Operating in approximately 70 countries and jurisdictions, AIG provides businesses with consistent protection no matter where they operate. Their Trade Credit for Multinationals program offers a centralized master policy that combines local underwriting expertise with global credit insurance benefits. This ensures clients maintain consistent coverage and control across all markets.
AIG simplifies administration by integrating domestic and international accounts receivable into a single policy. This approach not only reduces complexity but also addresses specific regional risks and regulatory requirements.
For instance, a U.S.-based pharmaceutical company leveraged AIG’s international resources to secure credit extensions for its overseas subsidiary. This enabled efficient distribution operations while maintaining strong financial protection.
These solutions are further enhanced by AIG’s cutting-edge risk management tools.
Risk Assessment and Claims Management Tools
AIG’s TradEnableSM portal offers a streamlined way to manage risks, from initial application to claims resolution. The company also provides specialized credit management tools and insights designed for businesses of all sizes, including middle-market firms, large corporations, multinationals, and financial institutions.
Additionally, AIG’s debt collection services extend support to clients in over 70 countries, offering assistance that goes beyond the scope of standard insurance coverage.
For example, a long-time food industry client faced challenges during policy renewal due to government restrictions that increased their business risks. AIG helped the client identify credit concerns within their portfolio, recommending coverage adjustments such as insuring higher-risk customers at reduced indemnity levels while increasing credit limits for lower-risk accounts. This approach allowed the client to adapt their program responsibly while maintaining key customer relationships.
Financial Strength and Market Reputation
AIG’s strong claims expertise and financial stability make them a trusted partner for businesses operating in volatile or politically sensitive markets. With a history of underwriting political risk insurance since 1978 and trade credit insurance since 1982, they have a proven track record in managing complex commercial risks.
Their political risk insurance offerings include protection against contract frustration, wrongful calling of guarantees, and tailored solutions for importers and exporters. These policies provide comprehensive safeguards for businesses engaged in international trade.
7. QBE
QBE wraps up the list with its focus on delivering tailored global solutions. With roots in Australia and a presence in 27 countries, QBE Insurance Group brings a wealth of experience to trade credit insurance. Supported by a team of approximately 13,500 employees worldwide, the company specializes in creating personalized credit solutions through skilled underwriting teams.
Policy Customization Options
QBE provides four main types of coverage to meet various business needs:
- Comprehensive coverage: Protects the entire credit portfolio, including both domestic and export customers.
- Excess of Loss coverage: Shields businesses with strong internal credit management against exceptional losses across their entire portfolio.
- Selective coverage: Available in two formats – Key Accounts protection for major debtors and Single Buyer coverage for specific contracts or individual debtors.
These policies can be further tailored to include options like negotiable credit limits, protection against offshore political risks, post-shipment contract repudiation, pre-shipment manufacturing risks, and specific industry adaptations.
For businesses of different sizes, QBE offers customized solutions. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with annual turnovers under $20 million can use the "SME Approve" product, accessible through an online Click and Quote tool. Larger companies can benefit from Excess of Loss and Selective policies, designed for specific buyers or exposures exceeding certain thresholds.
Additionally, QBE offers specialized covers for financial institutions, addressing funding arrangements tied to trade transactions. They also provide top-up insurance, which enhances existing policies from other credit insurers, potentially increasing coverage to 100% of the underlying policy.
Domestic and International Coverage
QBE’s trade credit insurance spans both domestic and export markets, safeguarding businesses against bad debts, insolvency, and protracted defaults. Their coverage extends to offshore political risks and post-shipment contract repudiation. The company operates across three geographic divisions: North America, International (covering Europe and Asia), and Australia Pacific.
Their policies can be issued locally, regionally, or globally, including through Lloyd’s of London, offering worldwide trade credit solutions. QBE’s reach includes key markets such as the UAE, UK, Ireland, Continental Europe, India, Indonesia, Singapore, China, South Korea, Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and the US. This extensive network ensures businesses have access to tailored risk management wherever they operate.
For energy and marine insurance, QBE International Markets provides local expertise through its Lloyd’s Syndicate 1036, with offices in New Orleans, Houston, and Miami, supporting both domestic and international operations.
Risk Assessment and Claims Management Tools
QBE offers the QRisk online risk management platform, designed to help businesses identify and address gaps in their risk management strategies. The platform includes self-assessment tools and a Knowledge Centre covering topics like ESG, risk culture, mental health, property risks, employer liability, motor fleet, and professional indemnity.
This digital tool empowers businesses to proactively manage risks while staying informed about industry-specific challenges and emerging threats. By leveraging technology, QBE simplifies risk evaluation and claims handling, keeping pace with industry advancements.
Financial Strength and Market Reputation
QBE is a member of the International Credit Insurance & Surety Association, joining the ranks of major carriers like AIG, Allianz Trade, Atradius, Chubb, and Coface. With its International division headquartered in London, QBE stands out as a leader in commercial property, specialty, and multinational insurance, with a strong presence in the Lloyd’s syndicates market.
The company also offers flexible premium options, allowing businesses to choose between fixed or variable payments, aligning with their cash flow needs. This combination of financial flexibility, global reach, and specialized expertise makes QBE a trusted partner for businesses seeking customized trade credit protection across a variety of markets and risk scenarios. Their offerings cap off this review of top carriers, paving the way for a side-by-side comparison.
Carrier Comparison Table
Choosing the right carrier means aligning their strengths with your business needs. The table below compares seven carriers across critical factors, helping you identify the best fit for customized coverage.
| Carrier | Customization Options | Coverage Scope | Digital Tools | Claims Management | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accounts Receivable Insurance (ARI) | Fully customized policies, tailored endorsements, negotiable rates | Domestic and international markets, political risk coverage | Risk assessment tools, policy management platform | Dedicated broker support, pre-claim interventions | Personalized service, access to global carrier network |
| Allianz Trade | Customized design, sector-specific solutions, flexible credit limits | 200+ countries, emerging markets expertise | AI-powered risk analytics, digital platform integration | Automated claims processing, global claims network | Market leadership, comprehensive digital ecosystem |
| Coface | Industry-tailored policies, selective coverage options, credit enhancement | 100+ countries, strong emerging market presence | CofaNet digital platform, real-time monitoring | Streamlined claims process, local expertise | Deep market intelligence, economic research capabilities |
| Atradius | Flexible policy structures, buyer-specific coverage, portfolio protection | Global reach across 50+ countries | Atrium online platform, credit management tools | Efficient claims handling, recovery services | Strong underwriting expertise, collection services |
| Chubb | Bespoke policy design, high-value coverage limits, specialized industries | Worldwide coverage, complex international transactions | Digital risk assessment, online policy management | White-glove claims service, dedicated account management | Premium service quality, high-net-worth focus |
| AIG | Comprehensive customization, multi-peril coverage, captive solutions | 220+ countries and territories | Advanced analytics platform, risk modeling tools | Global claims network, specialized expertise | Financial strength, complex risk solutions |
| QBE | Four coverage types, SME-focused products, top-up insurance options | 27 countries, domestic and export markets | QRisk online platform, Click and Quote tool | Efficient digital processing, proactive risk management | Flexible premium options, Lloyd’s market access |
Here’s a closer look at what sets each carrier apart:
Accounts Receivable Insurance (ARI) focuses on delivering personalized service through dedicated broker support. This hands-on approach is ideal for businesses that need expert guidance in crafting tailored policies. Their global carrier network offers flexibility and competitive pricing for both domestic and international coverage.
Allianz Trade and AIG are unmatched in global reach, with coverage spanning 200+ and 220+ countries, respectively. These carriers are perfect for multinational corporations requiring seamless, worldwide protection.
Coface shines with its expertise in emerging markets, underpinned by economic research and localized insights. For businesses navigating these regions, their industry-specific solutions and real-time monitoring tools provide a distinct advantage.
Atradius combines strong underwriting capabilities with a focus on collection services, making it a solid choice for businesses seeking comprehensive risk management that extends beyond traditional coverage.
Chubb caters to businesses looking for premium service and high-value coverage. Their bespoke policy designs and specialized attention are particularly appealing for complex international transactions and industries requiring elevated support.
QBE stands out with its flexibility in premium options and access to Lloyd’s of London markets. Their SME-focused products and top-up insurance solutions make them a great option for smaller businesses or those seeking additional coverage layers.
When deciding on a carrier, think about your business’s size, international footprint, industry challenges, and preferred service model. For straightforward domestic needs, QBE’s SME products may be a practical choice. On the other hand, businesses with complex global operations will benefit from the expansive platforms of Allianz Trade or AIG. If you value hands-on guidance during the selection process, ARI’s broker-supported model offers the expertise needed to navigate your options and customize policies to suit your unique risks. With these comparisons in mind, you can confidently find a carrier that aligns with your business priorities.
Conclusion
Selecting a trade credit insurance partner isn’t just about ticking a box – it’s about finding a provider that truly understands your business challenges and offers solutions designed to fit your unique risk profile. Instead of relying on generic policies, customized solutions allow you to tackle specific risks like payment defaults or customer insolvencies with greater accuracy and confidence.
You have the flexibility to insure your entire accounts receivable portfolio, focus on selected buyers, or even cover a single key buyer. This level of specificity ensures targeted protection, letting you prioritize high-risk accounts while avoiding unnecessary coverage for low-value or low-risk receivables. For businesses with international operations, tailored policies become even more essential. By addressing the unique regulations and risks of individual markets, these policies can help you expand safely into new territories or strengthen relationships with key clients.
Strong carrier support is another critical factor. A reliable insurance provider offers access to a dedicated team of professionals – risk underwriters, account managers, and claims specialists – who deliver personalized advice and actionable insights. This level of support helps you make informed credit decisions and manage your financial risks with greater precision.
To choose the right carrier, start by evaluating your company’s size, industry, and credit risk exposure. Then, compare providers based on their coverage options, pricing, customer service, claims handling, and risk management tools. Consider this: nearly 20% of small businesses in the US fail within their first year due to poor financial management. This statistic underscores just how vital it is to establish a solid insurance partnership.
Whether you opt for Accounts Receivable Insurance for its hands-on broker support, Allianz Trade for its global expertise, or another provider that aligns with your specific needs, each carrier offers distinct advantages to help safeguard your accounts receivable. Take the time to assess your options carefully – your financial stability depends on it.
FAQs
What should businesses look for when selecting a trade credit insurance provider?
When choosing a trade credit insurance provider, it’s essential to evaluate a few key factors to ensure they’re the right fit for your business. Start by looking at the insurer’s financial stability, industry reputation, and track record of experience. These qualities are strong indicators that the provider can handle claims effectively and support your business during challenging times.
You’ll also want to assess the flexibility of their policies, how straightforward their claims process is, and the level of customer support they offer. A provider that truly understands the unique risks of your industry and offers tailored solutions will be far better equipped to meet your needs. By carefully weighing these elements, you can select a partner that aligns with your business objectives and provides peace of mind.
What are the benefits of trade credit insurance for businesses operating internationally?
Trade credit insurance plays a key role in safeguarding businesses engaged in international trade. It protects against the risk of non-payment from foreign buyers, ensuring companies maintain a steady cash flow – even when faced with buyer insolvency or political upheaval. This layer of security allows businesses to navigate global markets with greater confidence.
Moreover, it empowers companies to offer competitive payment terms to international clients without exposing themselves to undue financial risk. By addressing challenges like currency shifts, trade restrictions, and economic unpredictability, trade credit insurance becomes an invaluable resource for businesses aiming to grow their global footprint.
How do digital tools improve risk management in trade credit insurance?
Digital tools are reshaping how risk is managed in trade credit insurance. They offer real-time risk assessments, buyer credit evaluations, and exposure monitoring, enabling businesses and insurers to make faster, more informed decisions. By automating tasks like policy management and compliance, these tools cut down on manual effort, improve efficiency, and help reduce errors.
With the ability to analyze data on a deeper level, these tools shift risk management from a reactive process to a more proactive and flexible approach. This leads to better accuracy and quicker responses when dealing with financial risks like non-payment or economic uncertainties, whether in domestic or international markets.
