What are the advantages and disadvantages of using FOB, CIF, and EXW Incoterms?

1 FOB: Free on Board

FOB means that the seller delivers the goods on board the vessel nominated by the buyer at the named port of shipment. The seller bears all the costs and risks until the goods are loaded on the vessel, while the buyer assumes the costs and risks from that point onwards, including freight, insurance, customs clearance, and duties. FOB is suitable for ocean and inland waterway transport, but not for air, road, or rail transport.

The main advantage of FOB for the buyer is that they have more control over the shipping arrangements and costs. They can choose the carrier, the route, the transit time, and the insurance coverage that best suit their needs. The main disadvantage of FOB for the buyer is that they are responsible for any loss or damage that occurs during the transport, and they may face delays or extra charges at the destination port.

The main advantage of FOB for the seller is that they have less risk and liability once the goods are loaded on the vessel. They do not have to worry about the shipping conditions, the insurance claims, or the customs procedures at the destination country. The main disadvantage of FOB for the seller is that they have to bear the costs and risks of delivering the goods to the port of shipment, which may include inland transport, port fees, loading charges, and export clearance.

3 EXW: Ex Works

EXW means that the seller delivers the goods at their premises or at another named place, such as a warehouse or a factory. The seller does not load the goods on any collecting vehicle, nor does it clear the goods for export. The buyer bears all the costs and risks involved in taking the goods from the seller's location to the final destination. EXW is suitable for any mode of transport, including air, road, rail, or ocean.

The main advantage of EXW for the buyer is that they have the maximum flexibility and freedom in choosing the transport mode, carrier, route, transit time, and insurance coverage. They can also negotiate better rates and terms with the transport providers, as they have more options and alternatives. The main disadvantage of EXW for the buyer is that they have the maximum responsibility and liability for the entire transport process. They have to arrange and pay for the loading, export clearance, freight, insurance, customs clearance, and duties, as well as deal with any loss or damage that occurs along the way.

The main advantage of EXW for the seller is that they have the minimum risk and obligation for the transport process. They only have to make the goods available at their location, and do not have to load, export, or ship them. They also do not have to incur any transport costs or charges, which are borne by the buyer. The main disadvantage of EXW for the seller is that they have the minimum control and influence over the transport process. They cannot guarantee or monitor the delivery time, quality, or condition of the goods, nor can they offer any after-sales service or support to the buyer.