The maritime route is an indispensable cornerstone of global trade. In import and export processes, certain terms are critical for accurate understanding and management. As Global Trade Logistics Europe, we’ve compiled the most frequently used maritime shipping terms and their explanations for you.
📦 Basic Shipping and Delivery Terms
🔹 EXW (Ex-Works)
Seller’s responsibility is limited to delivering the goods from their own facility. All transportation, freight, and insurance costs are borne by the buyer.
🔹 FOB (Free On Board)
The seller is responsible for the goods until they are loaded onto the vessel. The buyer covers the freight costs.
🔹 CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight)
The seller bears all costs, including freight and insurance, up to the port of discharge.
🔹 CF (Cost & Freight)
This is a type of transportation that includes freight but excludes insurance.
🔹 FCL (Full Container Load)
This means the entire container is used by a single shipper.
🕒 Timing and Planning Terms
🔹 ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival)
Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA)
🔹ATA (Actual Time of Arrival)
Actual Time of Arrival (ATA)
🔹 ETS (Estimated Time of Sailing)
Estimated Time of Departure (ETD)
🔹 ATS (Actual Time of Sailing)
Actual Time of Departure (ATD)
🔹 ETB (Estimated Time of Berthing) / ATB (Actual Time of Berthing)
Estimated and Actual Vessel Berthing Times
⚓ Port Operations and Cost Terms
🔹 POL (Port of Loading)
Port of Loading (POL)
🔹 POD (Port of Delivery)
Port of Discharge (POD)
🔹 THC (Terminal Handling Cost)
Terminal Handling Charges (THC)
🔹 BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor)
Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF)
🔹 CAF (Currency Adjustment Factor)
Currency Adjustment Factor (CAF)
📊 Container Tracking and Management
🔹 CMC (Container Movement Control)
This refers to a system that tracks the location of containers and whether they are empty or full. It also includes demurrage calculations.
✅Manage Foreign Trade More Securely with These Terms
Understanding these terms in your import and export processes allows you to control costs, optimize time management, and increase customer satisfaction.
As Global Trade Logistics Europe, we professionally manage all your international transportation processes, providing you with time and cost advantages.
