CFR Shipping: A Beginner's Guide to Cost and Freight

The international shipping process is considered a complex process. It is linked to various factors, and when you hear one of the Incoterms used in transactions and contracts, you may feel lost. But in fact, the commercial terms related to shipping are simple if the ambiguity is removed from them. In this article, we will define the term CFR, and its importance in determining responsibility for shipping-related expenses.

What Does CFR Mean in Shipping?

Cost and freight (CFR) is a legal term that appears in overseas trade contracts. According to this concept, The seller is responsible for arranging for the transportation of goods by sea to a port of destination and providing the buyer with the paperwork required to acquire them from the carrier.

The seller can make a contract with an official who specializes in the process of moving products from the point of manufacture to the predetermined shipping port.

The Importance of CFR in Shipping

The term Cost and Freight (CFR) holds great importance in international shipping. It helps determine the exact moment at which responsibility for the goods passes from the seller to the buyer, which occurs once the goods arrive on board of the ship. Therefore, each party knows its responsibility and duties. Furthermore, CFR is advantageous in terms of cost efficiency, because it requires the seller to bear transportation expenses to the port of destination. The term also provides logistical clarity by providing a well-defined framework of buyer and seller responsibilities, ensuring a smoother process in the international transportation of goods.

Seller's Responsibilities Under CFR

• Goods, commercial invoices and documentation.
• Export packaging and marking.
• Export licenses and customs formalities.
• Pre-carriage and delivery.
• Loading charges.
• Delivery at the named port of destination.
• Proof of delivery.
• Cost of pre-shipment inspection.

Read also: What Is the BRCGS Food Certificate?

Buyer's Responsibilities Under CFR

• Payment for goods as specified in the sales contract.
• Risk starts with onboard delivery.
• Discharge and onward carriage.
• Import formalities and duties.
• Cost of pre-shipment inspection (for import clearance).

What’s The Difference Between CIF and CFR?

The difference between Cost and Freight (CFR) and Cost Insurance and Freight (CIF) is the insurance coverage provided during goods shipment by sea. While both clauses assign particular transportation duties to the buyer and seller, CIF mandates the seller to obtain and pay for maritime insurance against the buyer's risk of loss or damage to the goods while in transit. In contrast, CFR does not require the seller to insure the goods throughout their route to the target port.

Similar Incoterms to Cost and Freight (CFR)

• Free alongside ship (FAS): It indicates that the seller simply needs to bring the cargo to the port adjacent to the vessel, after which the buyer assumes responsibility for the items.
• Free on board (FOB): It requires the seller to load the items onto the ship.
• Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF): It requires the seller to arrange for the transportation of goods by sea to a port of destination while being also liable for insuring the items until they arrive at the target port.

Things to Consider When Choosing CFR

Before selecting CFR as your shipping term, you should evaluate many things to ensure that it is appropriate for your business needs and goods.

• Carrier Selection: It has a significant impact on delivery timing and cost-effectiveness because the seller's control over delivery routes and schedules might influence the buyer's inventory and sales cycles.
• Risk Transfer: It is critical to recognize when this risk transfer happens and plan accordingly.
• Insurance: Buyers should consider purchasing insurance to protect themselves against any loss or damage.
• Cost Responsibility: The seller bears the expense of shipping the products to their target port. However, the buyer is responsible for arranging and paying for insurance, import fees, and any further transportation beyond the final port.
• Incoterms Version: Make sure that both parties are using the same version of Incoterms, as terminology and duties might differ significantly across versions.
• Communication: Maintain open and direct contact with the seller to ensure that all duties are understood and managed efficiently. Establishing explicit terms and conditions for the delivery of papers is critical for obtaining ownership of the goods at the destination.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis to establish whether CFR is the most cost-effective and efficient shipping method for your transaction, taking into account all related expenses and hazards.

International Trade Made Easy with Tebadul

Understanding incoterms such as cost and freight (CFR) is crucial to your company's effective functioning, especially when dealing with the complexity of global trade. The complexities of international trade may be intimidating, with several parties involved and rigorous coordination required. This is where Tebadul shines as an excellent partner, providing experience and assistance to help speed the process. With Tebadul's help, the difficult work of handling foreign transactions becomes a simple and seamless experience, allowing you to focus on building your business while managing the complexities of worldwide exchange.