Buying Guide
How to Choose Incoterms for Packaging Orders from China
Export sourcing guide to Incoterms for packaging buyers: EXW, FOB, CIF/CFR realities, document risk, and checklist language to put on China packaging RFQs and POs.
Quick answer
Choose Incoterms based on who should control freight, insurance, and export clearance—not on which acronym looks cheapest on a quote. For packaging, bulky cube and cut-off timing often matter more than the three-letter code alone.
Common choices for packaging buyers
EXW puts most logistics on the buyer—risky if you lack China pickup capability. FOB is common when you control the forwarder from the port. CIF/CFR can look simple but may hide weak insurance or routing you did not choose.
Packaging-specific risks
Nested cartons and board are cube-heavy; late paperwork misses vessels. Clarify who books, who pays demurrage risk, and when title/risk transfers. Align factory “ready” dates with CY cut-offs.
PO checklist language
Named Incoterm + place (port/plant)
Who books freight and insurance
Document set (PL, CI, CO, packing photos)
Ready date definition vs ship date
Related PackTrades Knowledge
How to Source Packaging Materials from China, Wood-Free Export Packaging Buying Guide, Export Carton Packaging Requirements, How to Evaluate Custom Packaging Suppliers in China.
Buyer Checklist
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