FOB FCL Shipping Process
From China – Step-by-Step Guide
Under FOB (Free on Board) terms, the seller is responsible for delivery of goods onto the vessel at the port of departure. Risk transfers to the buyer once the goods are on board.
Full Container Load (FCL) FOB Shipping Steps
| Step | Description |
| 1. Contract Signed | Both parties confirm trade terms, product specs, price, delivery time, and FOB port. |
| 2. Production & Cargo Ready | Seller manufactures or prepares goods for shipment. |
| 3. Booking by Buyer or Their Forwarder | Buyer books space with a shipping line and informs the seller of booking details. |
| 4. Container Pickup & Loading | Seller arranges container pickup and loads goods at the factory or warehouse. |
| 5. Export Customs Clearance | Seller prepares export documents and files customs declaration in China. |
| 6. Container Delivery to Port | Once cleared, the loaded container is delivered to the port terminal (CY). |
| 7. Goods On Board | Container is loaded onto the vessel. Risk transfers to buyer at this point. |
| 8. Bill of Lading Issued | Carrier issues B/L as proof of shipment. Seller sends B/L and documents to buyer. |
| 9. Document Delivery & Payment | Depending on the payment term (T/T, L/C, etc.), documents are released accordingly. |
| 10. Buyer Arranges Import | Buyer handles customs clearance and delivery at destination port. |
Seller Responsibilities under FOB
- Inland transportation to port
- Export customs declaration
- Origin terminal charges (if agreed)
- On-time container loading
Buyer Responsibilities
- Ocean freight
- Insurance (if required)
- Import clearance and local delivery
- Destination charges (unloading, terminal fees, etc.)