Understanding Incoterms for Frozen Food Imports
Learn about international commercial terms and choose the right shipping terms for your business.
What Are Incoterms?
Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are standardized trade terms published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). They define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers in international trade transactions.
These terms clarify who pays for what, when risk transfers from seller to buyer, and who handles documentation and customs clearance.
Who pays for shipping, insurance, and handling
When risk transfers from seller to buyer
Who handles customs and documentation
Incoterms We Offer
Cost, Insurance, Freight
Seller Pays
Product cost, export customs, freight to destination port, marine insurance
Buyer Pays
Import customs, duties, destination port charges, inland delivery
Risk Transfers
When goods are loaded on vessel at origin port
Best For
Buyers who want simplified purchasing with shipping handled by the seller
Crestwood handles everything to your port. This is our most popular option.
Free On Board
Seller Pays
Product cost, export customs, loading onto vessel
Buyer Pays
Freight, insurance, import customs, duties, all destination charges
Risk Transfers
When goods pass the ship's rail at origin port
Best For
Experienced importers with their own freight contracts or logistics teams
Lower product price, but you arrange and pay for shipping. Good if you have freight relationships.
Delivered Duty Paid
Seller Pays
Everything including import duties and delivery to your door
Buyer Pays
Nothing until goods are delivered
Risk Transfers
At destination when goods are ready for unloading
Best For
Buyers wanting a true landed cost with zero hassle
Available for select US and EU destinations. Contact us for availability.
Cost Comparison Table
See who pays what under each Incoterm
| Cost Item | CIF | FOB | DDP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product Cost | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Export Clearance | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Loading on Vessel | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ocean Freight | ✓ | — | ✓ |
| Marine Insurance | ✓ | — | ✓ |
| Import Clearance | — | — | ✓ |
| Import Duties | — | — | ✓ |
| Destination Charges | — | — | ✓ |
✓ = Seller pays | — = Buyer pays
Which Incoterm is Right for You?
First-Time Importers
CIF lets you focus on your business while we handle shipping logistics. One price, delivered to your port.
Experienced Importers
FOB may save money if you have established freight relationships or can negotiate better rates.
Zero Hassle Buyers
DDP gives you true landed cost with no surprises. We handle everything including customs.
How to Request a Quote
Specify Your Preferred Incoterm
Let us know which terms work best for your business when requesting a quote.
We'll Quote Multiple Options
We can provide quotes for different Incoterms so you can compare total costs.
Choose What Works Best
Select the option that best fits your logistics capabilities and cost requirements.
Request a Quote
Ready to get started? Contact us with your preferred Incoterms and we'll provide a detailed quote.
Request Quote