Business

FOB vs CIF: What Are The Differences?

Soumava Goswami

Business Dec 29, 2023

FOB vs CIF: What are the differences between the two? – There are many differences between CIF and FOB. However, there is one principal difference. In FOB, the seller gives up responsibility for the goods once they are loaded onto the ship. However, in a CIF agreement, the seller has the responsibility for the goods until they reach the destination port. After that, the buyer assumes responsibility.

FOB vs CIF: A General Overview Of Shipping Agreements

According to Investopedia,

“Cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) and free on board (FOB) are international shipping agreements used in the transportation of goods between buyers and sellers. They are among the most common of the 11 international commerce terms (Incoterms), which were established by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in 1936.”

Although the definitions of FOB and CIF differ with countries, both contracts contain details on origin and destination information. These data help in determining the beginning and end of liabilities. Apart from that, these pieces of information also outline the responsibilities of both buyers and sellers based on scenarios.

What Is Free On Board (FOB)?

Under the free-on-board (FOB) agreement, the supplier of the product does not take responsibility for the goods after they go into the shipping vessel. Hence, the supplier pays only for the transport of the good to the port and onto the vessel. As a result, the seller of the product has limited responsibilities for the goods under the contract.

After the goods go into the ship, the buyer of the product takes on the responsibility of the goods. The buyer takes full responsibility once the voyage starts. This includes transport, insurance, and other added fees. The buyer also pays for the unloading of the goods.

What Is Cost, Insurance, And Freight (CIF)?

Sellers use this technique mostly during large deliveries, especially for oversized goods that they ship by sea. The seller of the good takes responsibility for the good until it is delivered to the buyer’s port. The buyer assumes full responsibility for the goods as soon as it reaches the destination port.

Hence, if there are extra costs after the good reaches the destination port, the buyer will need to take responsibility for the same. After the payment, the transport service transfers the documentation for the goods over to the buyer.

FOB vs CIF: Major Pros And Cons

According to an article on Alibaba.com,

“With a CIF agreement, the seller is liable for the goods during transit, and with a FOB, the buyer is liable for the goods during transit. […] Generally, FOB is considered a more cost-effective approach. This is because buyers can make more cost-effective decisions about the shipment, such as buying the minimum insurance policy or going with a lower-cost freight company since they are in control.”

The following are the major pros and cons of FOB and CIF that you must know:

Pros And Cons Of Free On Board (FOB)

Here are the major pros of FOB that you will benefit from:

The buyer of the product has more control over the delivery process.
It is possible for the buyer to make various cost-effective decisions in some cases.
The seller does not have to take responsibility for added costs.

Here are the major cons of FOB that you need to be aware of:

Since the buyer has more responsibilities, the individual will need to deal with added costs if necessary.
If the goods are damaged during transit, the seller is not responsible for that. This might send the buyer into an absurd situation.

Pros And Cons Of Cost, Insurance, And Freight (CIF)

Here are the major pros of CIF that you will benefit from:

The seller has more control over the goods delivered to the customer.
Also, the buyer of the product has little to no responsibility when it comes to the delivery of the product.
The buyer gets a more seamless experience with the CIF process. As a result, the delivery process is less stressful for the buyer.
As the buyer is getting more convenient with this process, it gives the seller a certain advantage over its competitors.

Here are the major cons of CIF that you need to be aware of:

The seller has to take full responsibility for the damage to goods in transit.
Buyers of the product have little to no control over the cost of the delivery process.
There can be additional costs for sellers. This raises the costs of the goods at the time of delivery.

FOB vs CIF: Which Is The Best One To Buy?

During international shipping, most companies opt for either Free on Board (FOB) or Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) agreements.

According to Investopedia,

“Inexperienced buyers typically prefer CIF, which places much of the shipping responsibility on the seller, including shipping costs, insurance, and freight to the destination port, while giving the buyer greater convenience. However, because the seller takes on more risk and responsibility, CIF often comes with a higher cost.”

Basically, in CIF, the seller of the product takes care of almost everything up to the final delivery at the destination port of the buyer.

On the other hand, the ones that have enough experience in international shipping tend to prefer FOB. This is because they have more control over the goods in this case. When the goods leave the ship, the responsibility for the goods goes to the buyers. The seller considers the goods as delivered once they clear the goods for export and load them onto the shipping vessel.

Apart from that, the FOB also offers flexibility over logistical details. These are to learn the needs of the buyer and to lower the costs since the seller cannot negotiate directly with shipping companies.

On a side note, the scale and expertise of the company also determine the choice between FOB and CIF.

Wrapping Up

FOB vs CIF: Hope this article was helpful enough to provide accurate information. You can see from the article that, in general, sellers choose FOB more than CIF. However, if it is a big item and you want to have more control as a seller, choose CIF. Consider sharing your ideas and opinions with us in the comments section below.

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Soumava Goswami

Inspired by The Social Network, Soumava loves to find ways to make small businesses successful – he spends most of his time analyzing case studies of successful small businesses. With 5+ years of experience in flourishing with a small MarTech company, he knows countless tricks that work in favor of small businesses. His keen interest in finance is what fuels his passion for giving the best advice for small business operations. He loves to invest his time familiarizing himself with the latest business trends and brainstorming ways to apply them. From handling customer feedback to making the right business decisions, you’ll find all the answers with him!

Balistrieri

April 27, 2024 at 8:15 am

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What To Look For In Top Internet Service Providers?

Having a stable Internet connection is crucial nowadays. It’s as important as other utilities for many homes and businesses. With the remote culture booming around the world, individuals working from home should have continuous Internet access to finish their tasks. So how to select the best internet service providers? While some use the Internet mainly for work, others have it as their primary source of entertainment. Either way, having a solid Internet package is no longer a luxury but a necessity for everyday life. How To Select The Best Internet Service Providers? This guide will help you determine the key factors to look for when signing up for a new Internet Service Provider for your home or business. Since every household has different Internet needs, various factors and features need to be considered when choosing the right package. Consider the factors below when choosing your Internet Service Providers. Location Availability In order to find better Internet bundles, you need to check the providers available in your area. Many companies provide nationwide Internet service; however, that doesn’t mean these services will be available in all areas. Some internet service providers offer custom deals and packages, and the prices might vary. If the Internet package has one price in one area, it can have a different one in a new location. Compare Plans You should always compare broadband plans to find the package that suits your needs. Many Internet Service Providers offer discounts, promotions, and deals for new customers. So, make sure you’re informed well in advance of their deals and packages to take advantage of the benefits. Furthermore, contact the customer support center to get help and information on promotional pricing on their plans. This will help you to decide whether to choose that provider. Another important factor to consider when comparing plans is the prices. There might be additional installation, set-up, or equipment fees that are not mentioned in the package. Reliability The worst-case scenario when dealing with an Internet outage is that it can disrupt your daily workflow and entertainment activities, leading to stress and anxiety. Thus, it’s important to have a reliable ISP that provides a strong Internet connection, regardless of the weather conditions. However, the internet service providers and their company is not the sole responsible party for having a reliable connection. You have to consider other factors when choosing a bundle, like upload and download speeds, weather conditions, and broadband service. If you have fiber-optic Internet, the connection will be stable even in bad weather conditions. Check out some of the reviews from customers posted on the ISP’s website to learn about their experiences. Consider The Different Types Of Internet Connections There are various Internet connections, with each of its pros and cons. The type of connections will influence the Internet's strength, speed, security, and reliability. Here are some types to make a comparison and determine which internet service providers suits your needs and can fulfill your requirements. Cable Internet A faster DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) with a particularly high speed; however, the speed depends on the number of devices connected to the Internet at the same time. So, let’s say all of the family members are connected to the Internet in the evening, and you’d like to stream a movie. There might be slight issues with the connection; Cellular Technology Suitable for digital nomads and travelers - many ISP companies and internet service providers combine the cellular technology of the major providers and create plans based on users’ needs; DSL Digital Subscriber Lines and internet service providers are offering a wide range of Internet options, depending on the area in which you’re located compared to the ISP; Fiber-Optic The most reliable and fastest Internet connection with internet service providers; it’s more expensive, and it might not be available in some rural areas; Satellite it’s a good option; however, the internet service providers provide a relatively slower Internet connection compared to others; Consider Your Needs Even though it might seem a hassle right now, choosing the best Internet Provider, in the long run, will save you a lot of money, energy, time, and headaches. The ISP plan needs to be suited to your needs and how you plan to use the Internet. If you need an Internet connection for just checking your mail or surfing the web, the lowest-speed connection of internet service providers will probably do the job. But if you need high speed, more people in the family use the Internet, or if you live in a high-tech household, you’ll need a better package. Note that Internet packages can be adjusted according to your needs, so if you haven’t included a particular option in the deal when signing up, you can always add it later on. Bottomline: Enjoy Your Surfing! Once you’ve considered all these factors, it’s time to choose the best internet service providers for your home or business. Check out the links above to find more information about providers in your area and compare their deals and packages. And the most important thing - enjoy surfing once you get the best deal! Read Also: What Are The Safest Browsers For 2022 6 Tips For Growing Your Small Business And Boosting Your Bottom Line Understanding How VPS Hosting Can Help You Grow Your Online Business

Vertical vs Horizontal Integration: What Are The Key Differences?

Growth and expansion are the fundamental aspects of any business. It is a universal truth, and you cannot negate it from your standpoint. You cannot sway away the reality from your endpoints. Vertical vs Horizontal integration is a business model that most businesses adopt. Horizontal integration is when a business acquires the same line of business at the same level of the value chain. It eliminates the competition to a greater extent. On the other hand, vertical integration includes ruling over the entire industry by covering the supply chain. It all depends on the organization and which form of integration they would like to adopt. You need to identify the key factors of each process that can help you to make your decision wisely. Key Differences Between Vertical Vs Horizontal Integration There are several points of difference between vertical vs horizontal integration you cannot negate these points from your end. Basis Of ComparisionHorizontal IntegrationVertical IntegrationConcept When two firms mix with each other due to their same product lines and products, it is horizontal integration. Vertical integration is that stage of an organization when one company acquires another company staying at the same stage or path. Objective Enhancing and increasing the size of the business. Developing the supply chain of the company. Consequence Your company gains maximum market share by eliminating the competition. Reduction of the wastage and cost. Capital Requirement The requirement of capital here is higher. The requirement of capital here is lower. Self Sufficiency No, it is not a self-sufficient approach. Yes!! It is a self-sufficient approach. Strategy Used To Control Market analysis Industry requirements After getting the tabular format of differences between the two concepts, let’s get the core insights of it as well. 1. Meaning Horizontal integration takes place when two firms combine with each other when their products and production levels are the same. In the case of vertical integration, the objective is to acquire the shares of the other company. You need to go through the meaning of the two integration processes to make the application in your organization. Once you follow the process, things will become easier for you. 2. Objective Horizontal integration aims to increase the size of your business. On the other hand, vertical integration aims at smoothening and strengthening the production process. You need to be well aware of the objectives of vertical vs horizontal integration. You cannot make your choices all of a sudden. Read the objectives behind it for your organizational development. 3. Consequences Horizontal communication eliminates the chances of competition. In other words, it wipes out the competition from the market. On the other hand, Vertical integration lowers the wastage and cost of production. You can use horizontal integration to improve your brand presence in the market. Again in the case of vertical integration, you can use it to reduce the wastage in your production and distribution process. 4. Capital Requirement The capital requirement in the case of horizontal integration is high compared to vertical integration. You cannot negate the investment part in the process of your brand development. The marginal cost will be less. You need to have enough capital with you to initiate the process of horizontal integration. On the other hand, in the case of vertical integration, minimum capital is enough to initiate the process with ease. 5. Self Sufficiency The chances of self-sufficiency in the case of horizontal integration are not there, whereas in the case of vertical integration, the chances of self-sufficiency are present. You need to get through the two integration processes to make your final business decisions. If you want to do business independently, then horizontal integration can be a loss for you. On the other hand, Vertical integration can be a great option for you if you like to do independent business. As per the experts, self sufficiency is important. 6. Controlling Factor Vertical integration can assist you in gaining control over the whole industry. You can gain control over the entire market with the help of horizontal integration. The chances of growth in the case of vertical integration are higher compared to horizontal integration. Vertical vs horizontal integration can make your journey easier in the process of controlling the business. You cannot make things happen all of a sudden. What Is Vertical Integration? Vertical integration is that stage of an organization when one company acquires another company staying at the same stage or path. Vertical integration occurs when a company expands its operations by acquiring or merging with businesses along its supply chain or distribution channels. You need to consider the inventory turnover ratio. Advantages Of Vertical Integration There are several advantages of vertical integration that you must know at your end. Some of the key core benefits of it are as follows:- Vertical integration can help you to achieve cost efficiency. It can help in bulk purchases and reduce the cost of transactions. Distribution cost is reduced as it cuts off the requirements of the middleman in the process of integration. Your organization's products can meet the desired quality level if you make the application of vertical integration. Price fluctuations of the suppliers can be reduced greatly due to the presence of vertical integration. Synergies between different stages of production and distribution can lead to increased overall efficiency. Your network marketing can grow due to this integration. Backward Vertical Integration In backward integration, a company acquires businesses that supply it with essential raw materials, components, or services. This allows the company to have more control over its supply chain, reduce costs, and ensure a stable supply of inputs. For example, an automobile manufacturer acquires a steel company to secure its source of steel. End Of The Integration Process Hence, from the mentioned discussion, I think the differences between vertical vs horizontal integration are clear to you. You need to understand the process that can make things easier and more effective for you in the long run. You can share your views and opinions with us in this regard. It will help us to know your take in this regard. Try to convey your feedback to us from time to time. Read Also: What Is A Holding Company? – Importance, Operation, And Pros & Cons What Is Net Operating Income? How To Calculate NOI? What Is The Leverage Ratio And How to Calculate It?

How To Build An Ecommerce Website To Boost Your Business

Making new Ecommerce websites are accessible nowadays. Those who have a business based on online media have these Ecommerce websites. It is just like a book of business. You have bought a pair of shoes, perfumes, dresses, etc. They have sent your ordered items to your doorsteps. It seems easy when you are looking at things from the view of a customer. But you will feel challenged when you feel you are the business owner, and you have to send the product to the customers’ doorsteps. However, serial entrepreneurs are doing the most demanding things and maintaining ecommerce websites. Benefits Of Using Ecommerce Websites Serial entrepreneurs always use ecommerce websites to boost their business. However, if you are also thinking of opening a new ecommerce website, you will get a series of benefits. First, ecommerce websites have an option to earn a considerable profit. Now make a website and get the benefits. Now, we will tell you the advantages of opening Ecommerce websites. Go through the book of business and learn the factors. 1. Fast Buy As the owner of the ecommerce website, make your customers satisfied. So, it is easy for them to purchase products in some time. It takes only a minute to buy the product. For example, suppose one of your customers finds a particular product if the person gets it by search and can order it in a single minute. In this way, you can get benefits from using Ecommerce websites. 2. Cost Reduction Process It is a book of business where you have to pay less. For example, if you are selling products in your store, spend money on decoration, electricity, lights, and all. But in the online store, you don’t have to pay for other things. You can follow the serial entrepreneurs. The process is simple and also easy to understand. You don’t have to think of negotiation. If you give a price, interested customers will buy it with that price. But sometimes in the shops, people want you to reduce the cost of the product. However, serial entrepreneurs use Ecommerce websites. Read More: Top 7 Part-Time Work From Home Jobs In 2021 3. Multi Selling Products Using the ecommerce website, you will have time to sell multi-products. For example, you can sell grocery items and also clothing items. The all-in-one facility is excellent and also appreciable. You can open a website and boost your business. Go through the book of business. You may need a designer, but you also do not have to pay extra for creating if you know how to design like it. You will get the best profit through the company. Therefore, make a new website and operate it. How To Build An Ecommerce Site Creating an Ecommerce website is a time-consuming process that may take almost a year to decorate appropriately. However, if you are going to make an ecommerce website for the first time, you may feel bored. Thus, you need to have patience for opening a website and also can see the book of business. Don’t lose patience. Wait for the day of getting a high profit. So, we will now see how to make an Ecommerce website. Design the website in the best way that you can. It is the best time to create an ecommerce website. Serial entrepreneurs always follow these steps. 1. Legal Domain Name When you make a perfect plan for creating an Ecommerce website, choose the niche that you will select. Then, when you locate the place, you will work. After that, you also need to have a name that will perfectly match your business content. Famous serial entrepreneurs always place a proper name as the domain name. With this name, everyone will search and will purchase. You may have to buy the domain name the first time. The official website name is always a registered process. However, pay for that. 2. Legal EIN Number For E-commerce Business When you pay for the domain name, ask to get the EIN. It is the process of Ecommerce website business. If you get a number, that means your business is legal. EIN is the employer identification number. Based on that identity number, pay tax to the online service authority. Visit the book of business and get the details there. The process is the same as the shops. Many websites do not have an EIN. That means the business that the owner is running is illegal. Anytime the owner can get rid of accessing the account. However, you must think of doing a permanent business. Therefore, you must apply for an EIN. 3. Business Permission And License To run a legal e-commerce business, get the license to tell you to have a legal E-commerce business. Then, you need to get permission from the authorities. So, apply for obtaining a permit and go to the next steps. However, wait for the response of the authority and then proceed. Then, in the book of business, it is appropriately mentioned. 4. Designing Designing is the last significant part of creating an Ecommerce website for running a business. When you get an echo from the authority, that means they want you to do the business. However, you go gentle and choose a platform through this, and you will operate the site. For designing, you may need to have a designer. Therefore, select a person who will design your website as you will want. Successful serial entrepreneurs always follow the steps and then open websites and earn money online. Read More: How To Endorse A Check- Step By Step Guide For The Beginners In 2021 The Last Lines These are the steps that serial entrepreneurs have to follow to boost their business through E-commerce. However, all the doubts that you could have been cleared. If you still have doubts, then watch a video and learn in more detail. But before going through the steps, research the market. In that, you will learn what the best niche is in demand. You can go with it, therefore. However, don’t waste your time and seriously have a look at the book of business. It is the best time for you, so go gentle towards your goal. Read More: What Is Network Marketing And How To Do It In 2021 How To Open A Small Restaurant With Less Budget?

How To Start A Dropshipping Business In 2021 – A beginners Guide

Are you willing to start your dropshipping business in 2021? If yes, you need to follow certain norms that can help you achieve the same for your business. Here you must plan the things in proper order. It will help you to achieve the desired goals for your dropshipping business. Many of you have questions in your mind about how to start a dropshipping business? The answer to this question is quite simple you have to follow certain norms as per the situation’s needs. It will help you achieve your goals effectively. Proper planning can help you to get things done in the correct order. Different Ways To Start The Dropshipping Business Multiple ways are using which you can start your dropshipping business. Here you must plan things well to get the desired goals for your business. Proper planning can help you to achieve your goals effectively. 1. Select A Niche You first need to dive into the concept that which is the best niche for your dropshipping business. Here, proper planning can help you to achieve your business goals effectively. How to start a dropshipping business is not a big question? Instead, which niche will you select to start your dropshipping business is a huge question. The reason is whichever product you select or choose; you will have to face the competition. You need to have the confidence with you that you can bypass the competition properly. Here, you need to innovate things properly. It will help you to achieve your goals. 2. Perform the Competitor Product Research You must know your competitors well, and you must do your research correctly. It will help your business to expand and proliferate at the right moment in time. Proper planning can help you to achieve your business goals properly. How to start a dropshipping business is not a big question to ask here? Instead, you must know how you can outsmart your competitors in your dropshipping business. More effectively, you need to do proper competitor research. It will help your business expand rapidly. You need to make some careful considerations here. 3. Find A Reputable Dropshipping Supplier You need to find out a reputable Dropshipping supplier that can help you achieve your business goals effectively. The reputation of the supplier will help you increase your affiliate products’ sales to a great extent. Here, you need to plan things as per your requirements that can help your business expand beyond the boundaries. The selection of the right supplier will help you build mutual trust between your customer and your business. You cannot take these factors casually at your end. 4. Build An Online Store You need to build your online E-commerce store to make your products available to your potential customers. You need to plan things properly here. How to start a dropshipping business is no longer a big question if you have a proper online store with you. Adequate planning here holds the key to developing your business in the right direction at the right point in time. Having an online store will help you achieve your desired goals for making your dropshipping business successful and providing a platform from where you can earn money at your wish. Proper arrangement of the product line will play a vital role here. You must select the best product that can help you to achieve your goals effectively. 5. Improve & Analyze Your Store All the products in your online store may not have equal demand. You need to analyze the product line that will provide you the maximum returns and have less potential to give you the required profitability. The more you know the market, the better you can develop your brand image. Identify the products in your store that are resulting in the loss of your business. Find out the critical areas of their defect and make the proper solution to eliminating these defects adequately. It will help you to achieve your business goals effectively. You need to make the right decisions at the right time to avoid the wastage of your products from your online store. Proper planning can help you to achieve your business goals effectively at the right time. 6. Properly Market Your Dropshipping Business You need to build awareness of your dropshipping business effectively. It will help you to achieve your desired goals effectively. Your potential target audience will search for the best offers from your company. Now I think that the concept is clear how to start a dropshipping business? If you can provide them the best offers that they are searching for from you, it can help you increase your profitability in the long run. Proper planning here holds the key. It can help you determine whether your potential customers will buy from you or your competitors. You must make a robust branding policy to help your business grow at a rapid pace. Is Dropshipping A Profitable Platform Now? With the growing popularity of the affiliate business model, dropshipping is one of the best business models or the platform that can help you earn in millions. It can help your business grow to the next level as you want to develop it from your counterpart. Proper planning can help you to achieve your goals in the right direction. Here you need to make your niche popular as it will help you increase the profitability of your business in the long run. The demand for dropshipping is growing at a rapid pace now. Conclusion Hence, if you plan to develop your dropshipping business in such a way that it can help you grow your affiliate marketing business effectively. Selection of the niche here is crucial as it can make or break your business in the long run. Before you start your dropshipping business, you must give a complete idea of the niche you will market your product in the market. Select the best product that can help you to select the best profitability in a short time. Ensure that you have made the right choices from your end. Read Also: What Is A Mass Market Paperback? Explained In 2021 How To Start A Landscaping Business With Less Investment In 2021 What Is A Business Development Consultant, And What Are Their Job Roles?

FOB vs CIF: What Are The Differences?