In international trade, clarity in shipping responsibilities is crucial. The CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) Incoterm outlines the seller’s obligations to cover costs, insurance, and freight to the destination port, making it a preferred choice for many buyers.

Let’s explore what CIF entails, when to use it, and how SailOn Logistics can assist you.

What Does CIF Mean?

CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) is an Incoterm where the seller is responsible for delivering goods to the destination port, covering the costs of transportation and insurance. The risk transfers to the buyer once the goods are loaded onto the vessel at the port of shipment.

In simple terms:

• Seller: Handles export clearance, transportation, and insurance up to the port of destination. 

• Buyer: Manages import clearance, duties, and transportation from the destination port onwards. 

Key Responsibilities Under CIF

Seller’s Responsibilities:

• Export packaging and labeling. 

• Inland transportation to the port of shipment. 

• Export customs clearance and associated duties. 

• Loading charges at the port of shipment. 

• Freight charges to the destination port. 

• Minimum insurance coverage for the goods during transit. 

Buyer’s Responsibilities: 

• Import customs clearance and payment of duties and taxes. 

• Unloading charges at the destination port. 

• Inland transportation from the destination port to the final destination. 

• Additional insurance if desired beyond the minimum provided by the seller. 

Risk transfers from seller to buyer once the goods are loaded onto the vessel at the port of shipment.

When Should You Use CIF?

CIF is ideal when:

• The buyer prefers the seller to handle the main carriage and insurance. 

• The buyer is unfamiliar with the export country’s logistics and regulations. 

• Shipping bulk or non-containerized cargo via sea freight. 

Note: CIF is exclusively used for sea and inland waterway transport.

Pros and Cons of CIF

Advantages for Buyers:

• Simplified logistics with the seller handling major transportation and insurance. 

• Reduced responsibility in the export country. 

 Challenges for Buyers: 

• Limited control over the shipping process and insurance terms. 

• Potentially higher costs due to the seller’s inclusion of insurance and freight charges. 

Common Misconceptions About CIF

“CIF includes delivery to the final destination.”

→ False. CIF covers delivery to the destination port only. The buyer is responsible for transportation beyond that point.

“The seller provides comprehensive insurance coverage.”

→ Not necessarily. Under CIF, the seller is required to provide only minimum insurance coverage. Buyers seeking more comprehensive coverage should arrange additional insurance.

How CIF Compares to Other Incoterms

How SailOn Logistics Simplifies CIF Shipments

At SailOn Logistics, we ensure your CIF shipments are handled efficiently and transparently. Our services include:

• Comprehensive export documentation and customs clearance. 

• Competitive freight rates to major ports worldwide. 

• Coordination of minimum required insurance coverage. 

• Real-time tracking of your shipment. 

• Expert advice on import regulations and procedures. 

Partner with SailOn Logistics for a seamless CIF shipping experience.

Final Thoughts

The CIF Incoterm offers a balanced approach for buyers who prefer the seller to manage the main carriage and insurance up to the destination port. While it simplifies the shipping process, buyers should be aware of their responsibilities upon the goods’ arrival.

With SailOn Logistics, you gain a reliable partner to navigate the complexities of CIF shipping, ensuring your goods reach their destination efficiently and securely.

Ready to streamline your international shipping with CIF? Contact SailOn Logistics today for expert assistance.

In the world of sea freight, precision is everything. Knowing exactly where the seller’s responsibility ends and the buyer’s begins can prevent costly delays and confusion. That’s where Incoterms come in—and one of the lesser-known but useful ones is FAS (Free Alongside Ship).

If you’re shipping bulk cargo, heavy machinery, or other large freight by sea, FAS might be the right fit. But it’s essential to understand how it works and when it makes the most sense.

Let’s unpack it.

What Does FAS Mean?

FAS (Free Alongside Ship) is a sea freight–only Incoterm. Under FAS, the seller is responsible for delivering the goods alongside the vessel at the named port of shipment. Once the goods are placed at the dock or quay next to the ship, the buyer takes over responsibility—from loading onto the ship to final delivery.

In short:

• Seller delivers goods next to the ship at the port. 

• Buyer arranges loading, sea freight, and everything after. 

Key Responsibilities Under FAS

Here’s how the duties are typically divided:

Seller’s Responsibilities:

• Pack and prepare goods for export 

• Handle export customs clearance 

• Deliver goods to the port and place them alongside the ship 

Buyer’s Responsibilities:

• Arrange and pay for loading onto the vessel 

• Handle ocean freight, insurance, and destination customs 

• Manage inland delivery at the destination 

Important: The seller doesn’t load the cargo onto the ship—only delivers it alongside.

When Should You Use FAS?

FAS is best suited for bulk cargo or non-containerized freight being shipped via sea. It’s commonly used in industries like agriculture, metals, or heavy equipment where cargo is lifted directly into the vessel using cranes.

Use FAS when:

• The buyer has strong control over vessel bookings 

• You’re dealing with traditional bulk or breakbulk shipping 

• You want a clear handover at the port but not on board the vessel 

For containerized shipments, FAS is not recommended—FCA or FOB are usually better options.

Pros and Cons of FAS

Let’s break it down:

Advantages for Sellers: 

• Limited responsibility—only up to the dockside 

• Clear transfer of risk at a physical location 

Advantages for Buyers: 

• Full control over vessel choice and ocean freight 

• Ideal for bulk and non-containerized shipping 

Challenges: 

• Not suitable for containerized cargo 

• Buyer must manage loading, insurance, and potential port delays 

Common Misconceptions About FAS

“FAS can be used for air freight.”

→ False. FAS is only valid for sea or inland waterway transport.

“The seller must load the goods onto the ship.”

→ Incorrect. Under FAS, the seller only delivers the goods alongside the ship. Loading is the buyer’s responsibility.

“FAS is outdated.”

→ While not as commonly used as FOB or FCA, FAS is still relevant for certain bulk shipping operations.

How FAS Compares to Other Incoterms

How SailOn Logistics Supports FAS Shipments

Navigating port-side delivery, export clearance, and handovers can be tricky. That’s where SailOn Logistics steps in.

Here’s how we help simplify FAS logistics:

• End-to-end coordination with ports and carriers 

• Timely placement of goods alongside the vessel 

• Expert handling of export documents and customs 

• Flexible shipping options for breakbulk, heavy cargo, and more 

• Transparent updates from dock to delivery 

Our sea freight specialists ensure that your goods are delivered correctly, safely, and on time—so you stay focused on business, not paperwork.

Final Thoughts

FAS may not be the most commonly used Incoterm, but in the right context—especially for bulk and breakbulk sea freight—it’s extremely effective. It provides a clear transfer of responsibility at the port, giving both sellers and buyers a predictable, manageable workflow.

Need help planning or managing an FAS shipment? SailOn Logistics is ready to help you streamline every step—right up to the dock.

Contact SailOn Logistics today and let us simplify your sea freight with expert guidance on FAS and other Incoterms.

Shipping internationally can be complicated—but not with the right Incoterm. DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) is one of the most buyer-friendly Incoterms, designed to give importers peace of mind and minimal hassle.

Let’s break down what DPU really means, how it works, and when you should use it—especially with a reliable logistics partner like SailOn Logistics.

What Does DPU Mean?

DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) is an Incoterm where the seller is responsible for delivering and unloading the goods at a named destination—often a warehouse, terminal, or other location in the buyer’s country.

In short:

• Seller pays for transportation, export clearance, and unloading 

• Buyer handles import clearance and post-delivery logistics 

It’s the only Incoterm that requires the seller to unload the goods at the final destination.

Key Responsibilities Under DPU

Here’s how the tasks are divided:

Seller’s Responsibilities:

• Prepare and pack goods for export 

• Handle export customs clearance 

• Arrange international shipping 

• Deliver goods to the agreed destination 

• Unload goods at the place of delivery 

Buyer’s Responsibilities:

• Handle import customs clearance and duties 

• Manage any further transportation or storage after unloading 

Risk transfers from seller to buyer only after the goods are unloaded at the destination.

When Should You Use DPU?

DPU is perfect when:

• The seller has better logistics capability and local presence 

• The buyer wants a stress-free experience, especially for first-time importers 

• You’re shipping to third-party warehouses, logistics hubs, or retail locations 

• Unloading needs to happen in a specific, pre-agreed location 

DPU is especially useful in ecommerce, B2B deliveries, and just-in-time inventory models.

Pros and Cons of DPU

Advantages for Buyers:

• Minimal responsibility until goods are unloaded 

• No need to coordinate with transporters or unloading teams 

• Ideal for buyers without logistics infrastructure 

Challenges for Buyers: 

• Still responsible for import customs, which can be complex in some countries 

• May need to pay extra if unloading location isn’t accessible 

• Not ideal if buyer wants more control over the shipping process 

Common Misconceptions About DPU

“DPU is the same as DAP.”

→ Not quite. While both require the seller to deliver to a named place, only DPU includes unloading the goods.

“Risk transfers once goods arrive.”

→ No. Under DPU, risk transfers only after the goods are unloaded at the destination.

“DPU applies only to road freight.”

→ False. DPU can be used with any mode of transport, including air, sea, and multimodal freight.

How DPU Compares to Other Incoterms  

How SailOn Logistics Makes DPU Shipping Seamless

At SailOn Logistics, we turn the DPU Incoterm into a turnkey delivery solution. Whether you’re receiving goods at a factory, warehouse, or distribution center, we ensure the experience is smooth from start to finish.

Here’s what we handle:

• Export formalities and customs clearance 

• Multi-modal international transport 

• Safe and timely unloading at the destination 

• Transparent communication and real-time shipment tracking 

• Coordination with your warehouse or third-party vendors 

From factory floor to your door (and even beyond), we simplify every step.

Final Thoughts

DPU is a buyer-friendly Incoterm that takes the pressure off you by shifting most responsibilities—including unloading—to the seller. It’s ideal for businesses looking for a plug-and-play logistics setup, especially when shipping from overseas manufacturers.

With SailOn Logistics, you gain more than a freight forwarder—you gain a global shipping partner that ensures your cargo arrives where and how you need it.

Need help planning a DPU shipment or comparing Incoterms? Reach out to SailOn Logistics today for expert guidance on all your international trade needs.

In global trade, precision and clarity can save businesses thousands. That’s where Incoterms like DAP (Delivered at Place) come in—outlining who handles what during an international shipment.

If you’re a buyer who wants goods delivered to your doorstep—but can handle import formalities—DAP may be your ideal shipping arrangement.

Let’s dive into what DAP means, when to use it, and how SailOn Logistics makes it effortless.

What Does DAP Mean?

DAP (Delivered at Place) is an Incoterm that requires the seller to handle everything up to delivery at the buyer’s named location, which could be a warehouse, business premises, or port.

However, the buyer is responsible for import customs clearance and duties.

In simple terms:

• Seller: Responsible for export clearance, shipping, and delivery 

• Buyer: Responsible for import clearance and taxes 

Unlike DPU, unloading is the buyer’s responsibility under DAP.

Key Responsibilities Under DAP

Here’s how roles are split:

Seller’s Responsibilities:  

• Pack and prepare goods for shipment 

• Handle export customs clearance 

• Arrange international shipping 

• Deliver goods to the final agreed location (without unloading) 

Buyer’s Responsibilities: 

• Manage import customs clearance and pay duties 

• Unload goods at the delivery point 

• Handle any final setup or warehousing 

Risk transfers from seller to buyer once the goods are made available for unloading at the named location.

When Should You Use DAP?

DAP is ideal when:

• You want delivery to a specific address without worrying about logistics or transportation 

• You have the resources to manage customs and unloading 

• You’re shipping to a third-party warehouse or factory 

• You’re new to exporting and want to simplify delivery for your overseas customers 

DAP gives the buyer less responsibility than EXW or FCA but still more control than DDP, making it a balanced choice for many businesses.

Pros and Cons of DAP

Advantages for Buyers:

• No need to coordinate international logistics 

• Delivery directly to your door or warehouse 

• Flexible for any mode of transport 

Challenges for Buyers: 

• Must handle customs clearance and pay duties 

• Unloading is your responsibility 

• Potential delays if you’re not ready to receive the goods 

Common Misconceptions About DAP

“DAP includes unloading.”

→ False. Unloading is not the seller’s duty under DAP. If you want unloading included, consider using DPU.

“DAP covers customs duties.”

→ No. The buyer is responsible for all import-related formalities and taxes under DAP.

“DAP is only for road or sea freight.”

→ Incorrect. DAP can be used with any mode of transport, including air and multimodal shipments.

How DAP Compares to Other Incoterms

How SailOn Logistics Simplifies DAP Shipments

At SailOn Logistics, we make DAP shipments stress-free. Whether you’re shipping from Asia to Europe or moving goods across continents, we handle it all—until the point of delivery.

Here’s what we offer:

• Export documentation and compliance 

• End-to-end international transportation 

• Real-time tracking and proactive communication 

• Coordination with your teams for timely unloading 

• Expert consulting on customs procedures and local regulations 

When you choose SailOn, you get more than logistics—you get a delivery partner.

Final Thoughts

The DAP Incoterm is a practical choice for buyers who want their goods delivered but can handle customs clearance and unloading. It offers a smart balance between convenience and control.

With SailOn Logistics, you don’t have to worry about the complexity of international freight. We manage everything up to your door—so you can focus on your business.

Need help with DAP or choosing the right Incoterm for your shipment? Talk to our experts at SailOn Logistics today and ship smarter, not harder.

When it comes to global shipping, few Incoterms are as buyer-friendly as DDP (Delivered Duty Paid). This term ensures that the seller handles everything—from export to delivery and even import duties.

For buyers looking for a stress-free international trade experience, DDP is the go-to Incoterm. But it also comes with high responsibility for the seller.

Here’s everything you need to know about DDP, when to use it, and how SailOn Logistics makes it seamless.

What Does DDP Mean?

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is an Incoterm where the seller assumes full responsibility for delivering goods to the buyer’s destination—including paying import duties, VAT, and customs clearance.

In simple terms:

• Seller: Manages everything including customs and import duties 

• Buyer: Only responsible for unloading at the final location 

This makes DDP one of the most comprehensive delivery terms in international shipping.

Key Responsibilities Under DDP

Let’s break down the roles:

Seller’s Responsibilities:

• Pack and prepare goods 

• Handle export clearance 

• Arrange international freight 

• Manage import clearance and pay all duties/taxes 

• Deliver to the buyer’s location (excluding unloading) 

Buyer’s Responsibilities:

• Unload goods at the final location

Risk transfers to the buyer once goods are made available for unloading at the destination.

When Should You Use DDP?

DDP works best when:

• You want a turnkey delivery experience 

• You’re a buyer unfamiliar with local import regulations 

• You’re shipping to a country with complex customs processes 

• You want a single-party solution for all logistics and compliance 

DDP is especially useful when the seller has a strong logistics partner like SailOn Logistics to manage local duties and documentation.

Pros and Cons of DDP

Advantages for Buyers:

• Complete peace of mind 

• No involvement in logistics or customs 

• Ideal for first-time importers 

Challenges for Sellers: 

• Full exposure to foreign customs regulations 

• Unexpected duties or delays can impact costs 

• Higher liability and risk if local compliance is unclear 

Common Misconceptions About DDP

“DDP includes unloading.”

→ False. The buyer is responsible for unloading unless otherwise agreed.

“DDP and DAP are the same.”

→ Not true. Unlike DAP, DDP includes import duties and clearance, making it more seller-intensive.

“DDP always ensures faster delivery.”

→ Not necessarily. Delays in customs clearance or miscommunication can still affect timelines, even with seller control.

How DDP Compares to Other Incoterms

How SailOn Logistics Makes DDP Shipments Effortless

Handling DDP shipments is complex—but not when you partner with SailOn Logistics.

We provide:

• Full customs clearance support in destination countries 

• Duty and tax calculation assistance 

• Reliable carrier networks across continents 

• Door-to-door shipment tracking 

• Proactive communication to avoid delays

Whether it’s Europe, the US, Asia, or beyond—our global network ensures your DDP shipments are delivered on time and within budget.

Final Thoughts

DDP Incoterm offers unmatched convenience to buyers, shifting the entire burden of international trade to the seller. But it requires logistics expertise, deep knowledge of customs laws, and end-to-end coordination.

With SailOn Logistics, you gain a trusted partner to navigate DDP complexities—so your goods arrive legally, safely, and on time.

Thinking of using DDP for your next shipment? Contact SailOn Logistics today to streamline your global trade.

When you’re shipping internationally, balancing cost, control, and coverage is crucial. That’s where CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To) comes in—a smart Incoterm that offers peace of mind with both transportation and insurance included.

Let’s unpack how CIP works, when to use it, and how a logistics partner like SailOn Logistics helps you ship smarter and safer.

What Does CIP Mean?

CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To) means the seller pays for both the transportation and insurance of the goods to a named destination. However, risk transfers to the buyer as soon as the goods are handed over to the first carrier.

In short:

• Seller pays for freight and insurance

• Buyer takes on risk from the first carrier onward

• Works across all modes of transport

Key Responsibilities Under CIP

Here’s how responsibilities are split:

Seller’s Responsibilities:

• Pack and prepare goods for export

• Handle export documentation and clearance

• Deliver goods to the first carrier

• Pay for international freight

• Provide insurance coverage for transit (minimum ICC A/Cargo Clauses A level)

Buyer’s Responsibilities:

• Risk from the point goods are handed to the first carrier

• Handle import clearance and duties

• Manage final delivery at destination

Insurance is a key advantage of CIP—it gives buyers coverage without extra effort.

When Should You Use CIP?

CIP is ideal when:

• Buyers want goods insured during transit

• Sellers have access to better insurance and freight rates

• Shipments involve multimodal transport (e.g., rail + air)

• Buyers are located far from ports or inland

This Incoterm is especially useful for high-value goods or fragile items shipped internationally.

Pros and Cons of CIP

Advantages for Buyers:

• Freight and insurance handled by the seller

• Reduced administrative burden

• Ideal for risk-averse or new importers

Challenges for Buyers:

• Risk transfers early despite seller-paid insurance

• Buyers must understand the limits of the provided coverage

• Still responsible for final leg and import process

Common Misconceptions About CIP

“The seller is responsible until the goods arrive.”

→ Incorrect. Risk transfers to the buyer once the goods are handed to the first carrier, even though the seller pays for transit and insurance.

“Insurance covers everything.”

→ Not always. The seller is only obligated to provide minimum coverage unless otherwise agreed. Buyers should review insurance details.

“CIP only applies to sea freight.”

→ False. CIP works with any mode of transport, including air, road, rail, and containerized sea freight.

How CIP Compares to Other Incoterms  

How SailOn Logistics Simplifies CIP Shipments

CIP offers great flexibility and peace of mind—but only when it’s executed right. At SailOn Logistics, we ensure both sellers and buyers benefit fully from this Incoterm.

Here’s how we help:

• Sourcing optimal insurance policies with extensive cargo coverage

• Coordinating with trusted carriers for smooth handover and freight

• Transparent documentation outlining risk transfer points

• Real-time shipment tracking from dispatch to delivery

• Expert advice on when to choose CIP vs. CPT or CIF

With SailOn, you don’t just ship—you ship smart, with cost-efficiency and risk mitigation built in.

Final Thoughts

CIP is a powerful Incoterm that balances seller-paid freight and insurance with buyer-handled import logistics. It’s ideal for global shipments where security matters, but it requires clarity around risk transfer and insurance terms.

Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or a startup importing goods for the first time, SailOn Logistics makes CIP shipping simple, reliable, and safe.

Get in touch today to explore how we can tailor your Incoterm strategy for stress-free international trade.