Glossary
FOB (Free on Board)
FOB is an incoterm, which as of Incoterms® 2010 (and confirmed by Incoterms® 2020), is only suitable for ocean shipments that will be delivered straight to the vessel.
FOB (Free on Board)
What Is FOB?
FOB (Free on Board) is an incoterm that requires the seller to clear the goods for export, deliver the goods to the ocean vessel, and place the goods on board. Cost and risk transfer from the seller to the buyer once the goods cross the ship’s rail.
FOB should only be used for ocean shipments that will be delivered directly from the seller’s premises to the vessel. FCA is a more suitable incoterm for LCL and other containerized shipments that will be delivered to a carrier at a CFS (Container Freight Station) or Container Yard.
It is ultimately up to the buyer and the seller to agree on each party's responsibility of cost and risk before the shipment begins.
Learn More
Related Help Articles
Why Should You Ship Under FCA Incoterms®?
Related Glossary Terms
CFS (Container Freight Station)
Resources
Incoterms® Rules - International Chamber of Commerce
