The Ultimate Guide to International Shipping Trade Terms (Incoterms) | BRF SHIPPING GROUP
Understand Incoterms like EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP, and more to reduce costs, avoid confusion, and streamline your global freight shipments.
Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are globally recognized trade terms defined by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). They clarify responsibilities for transportation, insurance, duties, and risks throughout the various stages of international trade.
Whether you’re an importer or exporter, understanding the right Incoterm for your shipment can help you avoid delays, legal disputes, and hidden fees.
Clarify responsibilities: Who pays for freight, insurance, customs, and port charges.
Risk transfer: Establish when the risk shifts from seller to buyer.
Transportation and documentation: Determine who arranges and handles each step.
Prevent misunderstandings: Avoid costly mistakes in contracts and logistics.
| Term | Full Form | Seller Responsibility | Buyer Responsibility | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXW | Ex Works | Goods at seller’s premises | All transport & clearance | Domestic pickups; buyer controls freight |
| FOB | Free On Board | Until goods are loaded on vessel | Freight & import clearance | Sea freight, often used for China exports |
| CFR | Cost and Freight | Export + main carriage | Insurance + import costs | Bulk shipments where buyer arranges insurance |
| CIF | Cost, Insurance, and Freight | Export, sea freight, insurance | Import clearance & duties | Buyer prefers seller to handle marine insurance |
| DAP | Delivered at Place | All transport to named place | Import duties & clearance | E-commerce, B2B deliveries |
| DDP | Delivered Duty Paid | All costs, including duties & taxes | Receive goods | Turnkey delivery; perfect for buyer convenience |
When to Use Each Term
EXW: Use when the buyer has strong logistics knowledge or their own freight forwarder, and the shipment starts from the seller’s warehouse or factory.
FOB or CFR/CIF: Best for ocean freight where the seller arranges delivery to the port, but the buyer handles the logistics at the destination.
DAP/DDP: Ideal for seamless door-to-door delivery, where the buyer prefers minimal responsibility for customs handling and other logistics.
| Feature | DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxes & Duties | Paid by seller | Paid by buyer |
| Buyer Involvement | Minimal | Must handle customs clearance |
| Delivery | Hassle-free | Delays possible |
| Ideal For | Small businesses, first-time importers | Experienced buyers with local brokers |
Best Practices for Using Incoterms
Always include the specific Incoterm and place in your sales contract (e.g., FOB Shanghai).
Ensure your freight forwarder understands the agreed Incoterm and is clear on responsibilities.
Sellers: Avoid choosing DDP if you’re unfamiliar with the buyer’s country’s customs regulations.
Buyers: Always calculate the total landed cost, including duties, taxes, and handling fees.
| Feature | FOB | CIF | DDP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freight Paid By | Buyer | Seller | Seller |
| Insurance Paid By | Buyer | Seller | Seller |
| Import Duties | Buyer | Buyer | Seller |
| Delivery Location | Port in Buyer’s country | Port in Buyer’s country | Final destination (door-to-door) |
| Risk Transfer | At origin port | At origin port | At destination (door) |
FOB vs CIF vs DDP
When choosing between FOB, CIF, or DDP, it's crucial to consider how much responsibility you want to take on during the shipping process.
FOB: The buyer assumes responsibility once the goods are loaded onto the vessel. Best for those who want control over their freight.
CIF: The seller arranges insurance and freight, but the buyer handles customs at the destination. Ideal for buyers who want to ensure marine insurance coverage.
DDP: The seller takes on all risks and costs, making it hassle-free for the buyer. Perfect for those who want an all-inclusive, door-to-door service.
With decades of expertise in global freight forwarding, BRF SHIPPING GROUP assists exporters and importers in navigating Incoterms and arranging seamless deliveries. Our services help minimize cross-border trade risks and streamline the shipping process.
Q1: Which Incoterm is best for sea freight from China?
FOB and CIF are the most commonly used Incoterms for ocean freight shipments from China.
Q2: What’s the safest term for a new importer?
DDP is the safest choice since the seller takes care of everything, including duties and taxes.
Q3: Are Incoterms legally binding?
Incoterms themselves are not laws, but once included in a signed contract, they become legally binding.
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