Since the seller retains ownership of the items throughout the transportation damage period, the seller should file any claims with the insurance company. When a product is sold “FOB shipping point,” the buyer pays the seller or supplier nothing more than the cost of transporting the product to the designated shipment point. Until the products arrive at the buyer’s destination, the seller maintains ownership and is liable for replacing any damaged or missing items under the terms of FOB destination.
Time Value of Money
As an example of FOB destination accounting, suppose the value of the goods is 5,000 and the freight expense to the buyers destination of 600 is paid in cash by the seller. Since the buyer takes possession of the items at its receiving dock, that is also where the seller should document a transaction. Since the seller has more control, they may opt for a preferred shipper who may fob shipping point be more costly. They may also choose higher insurance limits, as they want to ensure that the goods are delivered in excellent condition. That’s because the seller may use a transport carrier of their choice who may charge the buyer more to increase the profit on the transaction. Wise connects local bank accounts all over the world to cut out expensive international fees.
Business needs
Freight on Board (FOB), also referred to as Free on Board, is an international commercial law term published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). It indicates the point at which the costs and risks of shipped goods shift from the seller to the buyer. However, it also entails drawbacks, including the potential for disputes over transfer points, limited control over the shipping process, and inherent risks of loss or damage during transit.
- Understanding the nuances of FOB is paramount for businesses engaged in international trade, as it directly influences pricing, risk management, and logistical strategies.
- Essentially, as soon as your freight is on board, you’re the one liable for them.
- Finance Strategists has an advertising relationship with some of the companies included on this website.
- In this variation, the price is set at the shipping point, encompassing all costs up to that point but not beyond.
Understanding FOB Shipping
FOB (Free On Board) means the seller’s responsibilities end once the goods reach the ship’s rail, so the buyer takes over. As opposed to “delivered”, which means that the seller bears all risks and costs until the goods get to the buyer’s destination. When goods are labeled as FOB shipping point, the seller’s role in the transaction is complete when the purchased items are given to a shipping carrier and the shipment begins. Incoterms define the international shipping rules that delegate the responsibility of buyers and sellers. The concept, outlined in the Incoterms list by the International Chamber of Commerce, streamlines shipping contracts and facilitates trade negotiations.
It means that a seller pays for all shipping costs and that a transaction is not complete until the goods reach the buyer’s destination undamaged. In FOB shipping points, if the terms include “FOB origin, freight collect,” the buyer pays for freight costs. If the terms include “FOB origin, freight prepaid,” the buyer is responsible for the goods at the point of origin, but the seller pays the transportation costs. If the terms include the phrase “FOB Origin, freight collect,” the buyer handles freight charges.
FOB pricing — what kind of costs are involved
Assume the computers were never delivered to Company XYZ’s destination, for whatever reason. The supplier takes full responsibility for the computers and must reimburse Company XYZ or reship the computers. Free on board, also referred to as freight on board, only applies to shipments made via waterways and doesn’t apply to goods transported by vehicle or air.