Name the contractual point precisely
Pair an Incoterm with a precise port or place and its version, such as Incoterms 2020. The rules allocate certain obligations, costs and risk transfer. Payment, title transfer and other terms still belong in the contract.
Containers and bulk need suitable rules
FCA may suit delivery to a carrier, particularly for containerised flows. FOB, CFR and CIF are maritime rules: the choice should reflect the actual delivery point. Review terminal and transport arrangements before choosing.
Under CIF, separate costs from risk
Under CIF the seller arranges the freight and insurance required by the rule to the named destination port, but risk transfers when goods are loaded on board at the shipment port. Check cover, exclusions and destination charges; CIF does not mean customs-cleared delivery to the buyer’s premises.
Prepare documents for the transaction
Commercial invoice, packing list and transport document are common documents. Origin, product and destination determine other requirements: origin evidence, sanitary or phytosanitary certificates, analyses or specific conditions. Do not assume one list covers every market.
Plan arrival before departure
Identify importer, forwarder, required authorisations, unloading facilities and receiving slots. Clarify local charges, free time and detention risks. Scheduling depends on document approvals and actual logistics availability.
Prepare your volume purchase
Product, grade, quantity and destination: provide the information needed for a tailored proposal.
Sources and checks
Martigane · Import-export · ICC · Incoterms 2020 · ICC Academy · FCA or FOB · Access2Markets · Export guide
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