Incoterms

    FOB explained

    Free On Board

    The seller loads the goods onto the vessel at the named port of shipment; risk and cost pass to you at that point.

    Full definition

    FOB is the most common ocean term quoted by Chinese factories. The supplier handles export clearance and loading; you own the ocean freight, insurance, US customs entry, duties and inland drayage. A quote of "FOB Shenzhen" means you (or your forwarder) arrange everything from Yantian to your DC — so compare FOB quotes only after you add your own freight and duty lines.

    Worked examples

    • FOB Shenzhen USD 12.50 / pc
    • FOB Shanghai USD 8.00 / pc (inland trucking to port included)

    Related terms

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