FOB vs CIF for industrial goods from India

FOB (Free On Board) usually means the seller delivers goods onto the vessel at the named Indian port. From there, ocean freight, insurance, and destination charges are typically the buyer’s concern.

CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) usually means the seller arranges freight and insurance to the destination port. You still handle import clearance and inland delivery unless you agree otherwise.

Neither term replaces a clear product specification. Ask for packing list, commercial invoice fields, and HS code early so customs does not stall the first shipment.

If you are new to importing, start with a small trial order and confirm who books freight before you lock volume pricing.