How to Import from China: A Step-by-Step Guide
A practical guide to sourcing, payment, booking, export customs and import clearance when buying from China.
Read moreFOB vs CIF: Which Incoterm Should You Choose?
A clear comparison of FOB and CIF, including who pays freight, insurance and customs.
FOB and CIF are two of the most common ocean freight Incoterms, but they divide costs and responsibilities differently. Choosing the wrong term can lead to unexpected freight, insurance or customs costs.
FOB: buyer controls the main freight
The seller handles export customs and loading; the buyer pays ocean freight, insurance and destination clearance. FOB suits importers with logistics experience.
CIF: seller pays freight and insurance
The seller pays ocean freight and minimum insurance, but risk still transfers at loading. The buyer remains responsible for destination clearance and delivery.
How to choose
- Want control of freight cost and carrier: choose FOB
- Prefer the supplier to arrange delivery to port: choose CIF
- Need door-to-door and customs: consider DDP/DDU
Related Articles
Amazon FBA Shipping from China: A Complete Guide
How to choose air, sea or rail for FBA, and how to handle appointments, labels and duties.
Read more
Air Freight vs Sea Freight: Cost and Transit Time
Compare air and ocean freight on cost, transit time and best-use cases with practical examples.
Read more