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Importing from China: Key Incoterms You Should Know

September 9, 2025

Are you importing from China to Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, or another South American country? Then you need to know these key terms . Using them correctly will avoid misunderstandings, cost overruns , and delays.

🛳️ 1. Most common Incoterms

- EXW (Ex Works) : The price only covers the product in the supplier's warehouse . The buyer pays everything else (internal freight, customs, international shipping, etc.).

- FOB (Free on Board) : The supplier delivers the goods to the port of departure (e.g., Ningbo, Shenzhen, etc.). From there, you cover the costs.

- CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight) : Includes the product, domestic freight to the port of departure, international shipping, and insurance . It does not cover customs or delivery to your country.

- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) : The provider handles everything up to your address, including taxes and paperwork. This is the most convenient, but also the most expensive.

📦 2. Types of cargo

- LCL (Less than Container Load) : Shared cargo. You use only the space you need. Ideal for small importers.

- FCL (Full Container Load) : Load a full container. More cost-effective for large orders.

🚛 3. Container nomenclature

- 20' Dry Container : 33 m³. Ideal for heavy loads or small volumes.

- 40' Dry Container : 67 m³. Efficient for large volumes.

- 40' High Cube : 76 m³. Taller, ideal for bulky cargo.

- Reefer : Refrigerated container for perishable products.

📄 4. Essential documentation

Every importer must require these documents to nationalize their cargo:

- BL (Bill of Lading) : Proof of shipment. It also functions as a title deed.

- CI (Commercial Invoice) : Invoice with prices, descriptions and conditions.

- PL (Packing List) : List of contents, weights and volumes.

- CO (Certificate of Origin) : Certificate indicating the country of manufacture. Important for implementing trade agreements.

✅ Conclusion

Understanding these concepts will help you avoid costly mistakes when importing from China. Remember to always request a quote with a specific Incoterm (EXW, FOB, etc.) and confirm whether you need DDP or just CIF.

🛑 Disclaimer

Terms, costs, and examples may vary by company, destination country, and season. This information is for informational and educational purposes only. We recommend always confirming with your supplier or freight forwarder.