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At Freight IQ, we specialize in delivering reliable, streamlined air freight services backed by consistent communication every step of the way. With access to dedicated global air cargo space, we tailor each shipment for the best combination of route, cost, and transit time.

Incoterms:

What Are Incoterms?

Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are a set of internationally recognized rules published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) that define the responsibilities of sellers and buyers in global trade agreements and shipment transactions. These standardized codes clarify how costs, risks, and obligations are shared between trading partners, helping prevent misunderstandings in international and domestic contracts.

Why Use Incoterms?

Utilizing Incoterms in your contracts ensures a clear understanding of the following:

  • Who is responsible for shipping, insurance, and customs duties
  • Where risk and liability for the goods transfer from seller to buyer
  • Which party pays for the different stages of transporting goods

Each term specifies a distinct arrangement, streamlining the process and reducing disputes by providing structure for sales agreements and shipments worldwide.

Main Categories of Incoterms

  • E Terms: Seller makes goods available at their premises (EXW – Ex Works)
  • F Terms: Seller delivers goods to a carrier (FCA – Free Carrier, FAS – Free Alongside Ship, FOB – Free On Board)
  • C Terms: Seller arranges and pays for transportation but not risk after shipment (CPT – Carriage Paid To, CIP – Carriage and Insurance Paid To, CFR – Cost and Freight, CIF – Cost, Insurance, and Freight)
  • D Terms: Seller is responsible until goods arrive at the destination (DAP – Delivered at Place, DPU – Delivered at Place Unloaded, DDP – Delivered Duty Paid)

Choosing the Right Incoterm

Selecting the appropriate Incoterm depends on the type of goods, the modes of transport involved, and your desired level of control or risk. Our team can help you choose terms best suited to your import or export needs, ensuring a seamless trade experience.

To learn more about each incoterm, you can download the incoterms guide here: Incoterm Final

Shipping containers:

Shipping Container Types

Shipping containers are available in various types and sizes to suit almost any cargo need. Choosing the right container ensures safe and efficient transportation of your goods.

Common Container Types

  • Standard Dry Container: The backbone of international shipping, designed for general cargo such as electronics, clothing, and machinery. Available most commonly in 20ft and 40ft lengths, these containers are secure, waterproof, and cost-efficient.
  • High Cube Container: Offers additional vertical space compared to the standard dry container, maximizing storage for voluminous cargo. Typically, one foot taller, high cube containers are available in 20ft and 40ft sizes.
  • Open Top Container: With a removable roof, open top containers allow for easy crane loading of oversized cargo or bulk items that cannot be loaded through standard doors.
  • Flat Rack Container: Designed for heavy and oversized cargo, these containers have end walls but no side walls or roof, making them ideal for construction equipment or vehicles.
  • Refrigerated Container (Reefer): Equipped with temperature-control machinery for transporting perishable goods, food, or pharmaceuticals needing a stable environment. Reefer units are available in multiple sizes and can be powered by generator sets for long-distance trips.
  • Tank Container: Specialized containers for liquids, chemicals, and gases. Tank containers are robust, certified, and often leased from specialized providers.
  • Insulated Container: Maintains cargo temperature without active refrigeration, suitable for products sensitive to fluctuations but not requiring continual cooling.

To learn more about the types of containers with their dimensions, you can download the guide here : Container Guide Final

Shipping Volume Calculator

Calculating the volume of your shipment is essential for estimating shipping costs, optimizing cargo space, and ensuring your goods fit within container or transport specifications. Our Shipping Volume Calculator is a free, user-friendly online tool that helps you determine the cubic volume and volumetric weight of your packages in just a few clicks.
https://www.cbmcalculator.com/