FOB and CIF Comparison
This summary supports quotation discussions; the signed contract and ICC rules govern the transaction.
| Quote point | FOB | CIF |
|---|---|---|
| Main carriage | Buyer arranges | Seller arranges and includes cost |
| Insurance in quoted term | Buyer arranges as needed | Seller arranges the insurance required by CIF |
| Named location | Named port of shipment | Named destination port |
| Buyer sends | Quantity, cargo, port, schedule, documents | Quantity, destination port, cargo, schedule, documents |
| Important note | Risk and cost do not necessarily transfer at the same point | Arrival cost inclusion does not mean seller carries all risk to destination |
Quote Request Format
Use a complete subject line and avoid asking only for a price per ton.
- Maleic Anhydride 99.5% min, solid or molten
- Quantity per shipment and expected purchase frequency
- FOB named China port or CIF named destination port, Incoterms 2020
- Packaging or tank requirement and target shipment month
- Required COA, SDS, TDS, inspection, origin, and transport documents
FAQ
Does CIF mean the seller carries all risk until arrival?
No. Cost, insurance, and freight are included as defined by CIF, but risk transfer follows the Incoterm rule and should be understood separately.
Can I request both FOB and CIF?
Yes. Providing the same quantity, cargo form, packing, and shipment month allows a clearer comparison.
Should the quotation state Incoterms 2020?
Yes. State the rule, named port, and version to reduce ambiguity.
Authoritative References
These external references support general chemical and trade information. Order-specific requirements must be confirmed separately.
Related Procurement Guides
Solid vs Molten Maleic AnhydrideCompare solid and molten maleic anhydride for packaging, storage, unloading, order volume, and plant handling before requesting a quotation.Maleic Anhydride Packaging ComparisonCompare 25 kg bags, 500 kg jumbo bags, and ISO tank discussions for maleic anhydride orders, handling, storage, and quotation planning.How to Read a Maleic Anhydride COALearn how procurement and quality teams can review a maleic anhydride COA, batch identity, test methods, specification limits, and shipment documents.Maleic Anhydride Procurement ChecklistUse this maleic anhydride procurement checklist to compare supplier identity, grade, documents, packaging, logistics, inspection, and quotation terms.