What is FOB (Free On Board)?
FOB means the seller is responsible for the vehicle price, domestic transport to the Chinese port, export customs clearance, and port handling charges. Once the vehicle is loaded onto the vessel, the risk and responsibility shift to the buyer, who must pay for ocean freight, insurance, and destination port clearance.
What is CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight)?
CIF includes the vehicle price, domestic export charges, ocean shipping freight to your destination port, and basic marine insurance. For non-professional or first-time buyers, CIF is highly recommended as the seller arranges all shipping logistics until the vehicle reaches your destination port.
Hidden Destination Port Costs
Buyers often confuse CIF with 'total landed cost'. CIF only delivers the vehicle to the destination port's dock. You are still responsible for: Terminal Handling Charges (THC) at the destination port, customs clearance agent fees, import taxes/duties, port storage fees if delayed, and local transit to your final city.