By SKYSEVEN Chemical Technical Team · About our expertise

FOB vs CIF for Chemical Imports

Incoterms decide who pays freight and when risk transfers. For multi-ton solvents and intermediates from China, FOB and CIF are the most common choices—each fits different buyer capability.

When FOB makes sense

You have a trusted forwarder and want control of ocean freight rates and carriers. Seller delivers goods on board at the named Chinese port.

When CIF is simpler

You prefer seller-arranged freight and insurance to the destination port. Still budget for import clearance, duties and inland delivery.

What to write on the RFQ

Named port, preferred Incoterm, monthly volume and packing. Compare total landed cost—not unit price alone.

Documents still required

COA, SDS, invoice and packing list must align regardless of Incoterm. See our export documents guide.

Step-by-step

  1. Step 1: Choose destination port
  2. Step 2: Decide FOB or CIF with your forwarder
  3. Step 3: Put Incoterm on RFQ
  4. Step 4: Compare landed cost quotes
  5. Step 5: Confirm insurance coverage scope

FAQ

Does CIF include import duty?

No. Duties and import clearance remain buyer-side in typical CIF.

Can SKYSEVEN quote both?

Yes—state preferred Incoterm and port on the inquiry.

Related resources

References for further reading: PubChem, NIST WebBook. Always verify product data with COA and SDS for your lot.