Terms of Shipping
Freight on board, or free on board (FOB)
The exporters delivers the goods at the specified location (and on board the vessel). Costs paid by the exporter include load
and lash, including securing cargo not to move in the ships hold, protecting the cargo from contact with the double bottom to
prevent slipping, and protection against damage from condensation. For example, at Mumbai Airport, FOB means that the exporter
delivers the goods to the airport, and pays for the cargo to be loaded and secured on the plane. The exporter is bound to
deliver the goods at his cost and expense. In this case, the freight and other expenses for outbound traffic is borne by
the importer.
Cost and freight (C&F, CFR, CNF)
Insurance is payable by the importer, and the exporter pays the ocean shipping/air freight costs to the specified location.
For example, C&F Los Angeles (the exporter pays the ocean shipping/air freight costs to Los Angeles). Many of the shipping
carriers (such as UPS, DHL, FEDEX) offer guarantees on their delivery times.
Cost, insurance, and freight (CIF)
Insurance and freight are all paid by the exporter to the specified location. For example, at CIF Los Angeles, the exporter
pays the ocean shipping/air freight costs to Los Angeles including the insurance).