Incoterms 2020
FCA, Free Carrier
The seller clears the goods for export and hands them to a carrier the buyer nominates. It is the most flexible rule in the set and usually the right default.
- Group
- F
- Mode
- Any mode of transport
FCA is the workhorse of Incoterms 2020 and the rule that fits the widest range of situations. The seller handles export clearance, which is correct because they are in the country of export, and delivers to a carrier the buyer has nominated. From that handover the buyer carries the risk and the cost.
There are two delivery variants and the difference matters. If the named place is the seller’s premises, delivery happens when the goods are loaded onto the buyer’s collecting vehicle. If the named place is anywhere else, delivery happens when the goods arrive at that place ready for unloading, and the seller is not responsible for unloading them.
The seller is responsible for
- Package the goods and provide the commercial documents
- Clear the goods for export and pay export duties and charges
- Deliver to the nominated carrier at the named place
- Load the goods if the named place is the seller’s own premises
- Provide proof of delivery to the buyer
The buyer is responsible for
- Nominate the carrier and contract the main transport
- Pay all costs from the point of delivery onward
- Arrange insurance if wanted, as none is required by the rule
- Handle import clearance, duty and taxes at destination
Risk transfers
On delivery to the nominated carrier, either loaded at the seller’s premises or ready for unloading elsewhere.
Costs transfer
At the same point, with export clearance already paid by the seller.
Best used for
Almost any international sale, including containerised sea freight where FOB is commonly and incorrectly used.
Watch out for
Name the place precisely. "FCA Oradea" is ambiguous, "FCA seller’s warehouse, Strada X 1, Oradea" is not.
Related services
Tell us what you need to move.
Send the supplier city or port of loading, the volume and weight, and the date the goods are ready. We will come back with a landed cost and a realistic transit time, usually within one working day.