What is Incoterms and how do I know what to choose?

Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) is a global standard for delivery terms in international trade. They establish who is responsible for transport, costs and risks when shipping goods between buyer and seller.

In Schipt Online you can choose between the following Incoterms:

  • EXW (Ex Works) – The buyer is responsible for the whole transportation from the seller's warehouse.
  • FCA (Free Carrier) – The seller is responsible for the transport to a designated carrier, after which the buyer takes over.
  • CPT (Carriage Paid To) – The seller pays the freight to the specified destination, but the risk passes to the buyer at the start of the transportation.
  • CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To) – Like CPT, but the seller is also responsible for transport insurance.
  • DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) – The seller is responsible for transportation and unloading at the named location, the buyer pays customs duties and import fees.
  • DAP (Delivered At Place) – The seller is responsible for transportation all the way yo the buyer, but the buyer is responsible for import duties and fees.
  • DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) – The seller is responsible for all transportation as well as customs and fees - the buyer only needs ro receive the goods.
  • FAS (Free Alongside Ship) – The seller is responsible for delivering the foods to the ship, after which the buyer takes over.
  • FOB (Free on Board) – The seller is responsible for the goods until they are loaded onto the ship, after which the risk passes to the buyer.
  • CFR (Cost and Freight) – The seller pays the freight to the port of destination, but the risk passes to the buyer when the goods are loaded onto the ship.
  • CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) – Like CFR, but the seller is also responsible for transport insurance.

Which Incoterm should I choose? The choise depends on how you and your business partner want to divide the responsibility. If you are unsure, check what is standard in your industry or contact your carrier for advice.