What Incoterms do
Incoterms are international rules that say who arranges and pays for transport, and who carries risk at each stage. The price you are quoted assumes one of them.
Common terms for apparel are EXW (ex works), FCA (free carrier), FOB (free on board, sea only), CIF (cost, insurance, freight) and DAP (delivered at place).
Choosing a term
With EXW or FCA you arrange the main transport, usually through your own forwarder. With DAP the seller arranges delivery to a named place, but you handle import clearance.
If you are new to importing, a delivered term can be simpler. If you have a forwarder you trust, FCA gives you more control.
Air, road and sea
Air is fastest and costs more. Road is common for the Middle East, Caucasus, Central Asia and Europe. Sea suits large volumes.
The best option depends on urgency, volume and destination.
Documents
A shipment normally carries a commercial invoice, a packing list and a transport document. Depending on destination, a certificate of origin and other certificates may be required. Your importer or customs broker confirms what your country needs.
Frequently asked questions
What term do you quote?
We quote on the term you ask for and state it in the quote so offers are comparable.
Who pays import duty?
Under most terms the buyer pays import duties and taxes in the destination country.