Law360, New York (December 3, 2013, 7:46 PM EST) -- In the 2012 edition of its Trade Finance Guide, the U.S. International Trade Administration for the first time discussed escrow service as a variation on cash in advance and a payment method available to U.S. exporters. The ITA's inclusion of escrow services in the guide and the emergence of companies providing escrow services reflect a concern common to all exporters: the need to find a payment system that provides some level of security at a low price. Just as with bank payment obligations, escrow services are an attempt to fill the gap between open account trade and cash in advance. As escrow services are used more frequently and offered more often, exporters should be aware of some of the benefits and risks in using the service....