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FCA - free carrier
We can deliver the products to a certain destination, to the carrier chosen by the buyer. This destination will determine the loading and unloading requirements in the first transport. If delivery is made on the premises of the us, then we are liable for the load. However, if the delivery takes place elsewhere, then the buyer is responsible for unloading the shipment. This also mean we will take care of the export customs clearance. The buyer can also instruct its carrier to issue a bill of landing with an on-board notation to us so that we may satisfy the terms of a letter of credit.
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EXW - ex works
This means that we will deliver to their own warehouse or factory for the buyer to pick up. We do not load the goods for the buyer or is involved in export clearance. The buyer is therefore responsible for all expenses and risks involved.
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DPU - delivered at place unloaded (formerly known as DAT delivered at terminal)
This abbreviation refers to risk and responsibility. We will deliver the goods unloaded in the country of destination, in a port or airport for example. Then transportation risk is passed from us to the buyer as delivery is made and completed. The export customs clearance is handled by us, but import customs clearance and any tariffs are paid by the buyer.
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CPT - carriage paid to
CPT means that the we contract and pay for transportation to the delivery destination in the buyer’s country. When the goods are received by the first carrier in the chain, we are no longer responsible for the items and all risk is passed over to the buyer. The export customs clearance is completed and handled by us.
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CIP - carriage and insurance paid to
In the same way, CPT refers to the obligations to us, this incoterm means that we are also responsible for transport and shipping insurance. We are also responsible for purchasing a higher level of insurance coverage, at least 110% of the value of goods as detailed in Clause A of the Institute of Cargo Clauses.
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DAP - delivered at place
We will deliver the goods to the country specified by the buyer, and the items must be ready to be unloaded in a place other than a terminal or transport infrastructure. The risk of transporting the goods passes from us to the buyer once delivery has been made. The buyer pays import customs clearance and tariffs, but we complete export customs clearance.
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DDP - delivered duty paid
This shipping term means that we will deliver the goods, ready for unloading, at the place of destination requested by the buyer. This is usually a factory or warehouse owned by the buyer. All risks and costs, including customs fees such as clearance of export and import, are handled by us.
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FAS - free alongside ship
FAS means that we are obliged to deliver the goods, alongside a vessel at the port of destination. Once delivered, all costs and associated risks are passed over to the buyer, although we handle customs clearance.
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FOB - free onboard
When shipping goods overseas, FOB means we will deliver goods on board the ship, at the port of shipment. The buyer chooses to ship and pay for freight. The transportation risk will move from us to the buyer once the goods are delivered and are safely onboard the ship. With FOB, export customs clearance is handled by us.
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CFR - cost and freight
If you select CFR, this means that we will be responsible for freight to the port of destination. But, once the goods are loaded onto the ship at the shipment port, the risk of loss or damage to the goods moves from the seller to the buyer. Again, responsibility for export customs clearance lies with us.
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CIF - cost, insurance, and freight
We will provide and pay for transport insurance to safeguard the goods, but insurance coverage only needs to be at a basic level.
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LCL - less than container load
LCL is a common shipping term used when exporting overseas and to a named port. Small ocean freight shipment is transported using this code when the shipper doesn’t contract for a full container due to the low quantity of goods. In this case, a freight forwarder may create a consolidation by putting together multiple LCL shipments before gating in at the container yard at the place of destination or named port.
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Choose the right shipping method: We provide a variety of shipping options, including air and sea freight as well as courier services from DHL, FedEx, and UPS. With regard to price and shipping time, each method has pros and cons. Sea freight is typically the least expensive choice, but it also takes the longest to deliver. The fastest options are courier services, however they can be very expensive, so choose the one that suits your needs and budget.
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Consider shipping in bulk: Shipping in bulk can often be more cost-effective than shipping individual items. You can also negotiate a better shipping rate with us for larger orders.
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Check for free shipping promotions: Sometimes, we offer free shipping promotions for certain products or order quantities. Keep an eye out for these promotions to save on shipping costs.
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Negotiate with us: Don't hesitate to negotiate with the supplier to get a better shipping rate. You can also ask for a discount on the product price, which could offset the shipping cost.
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Use a freight forwarder: A freight forwarder is a third-party logistics provider that can help you find the best shipping options and rates. They can also handle the customs clearance process for you, saving you time and money. Ensure that the packaging is optimized for size and weight. This will help you avoid any additional charges that may be incurred due to oversized packages.
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Be flexible with your delivery time: If you can afford to wait longer for your shipment to arrive, you may be able to get a better shipping rate. Shipping carriers often offer cheaper rates for shipments that are not time-sensitive.
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Plan ahead: Give yourself plenty of time to plan and order your products. Rush orders can be more expensive, so plan ahead to save money on shipping.
