Ruvello Global
FOB vs. CIF: Which Shipping Term is Safer for Stone Importers?
Logistics Academy 8 Min Read

FOB vs. CIF: Which Shipping Term is Safer for Stone Importers?

Written by Rahul

Export Director • Ruvello Global

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The Eternal Debate

When you buy a container of stone, you aren't just buying rock; you are buying logistics. The two most common Incoterms in our industry are FOB and CIF. Choosing the wrong one can cost you thousands.

1. FOB (Free on Board) - For the Pros

Definition: Ruvello handles the cargo until it crosses the ship's rail in India (Chennai/Mundra). You appoint the shipping line.
Pros: You control the freight rate. If you have a good forwarder, you save money.
Cons: You manage the headache. If the ship delays, you are on the phone with Maersk.

2. CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) - For Peace of Mind

Definition: We pay the ocean freight and insurance to your destination port (e.g., Houston, Jebel Ali). You just unload.
Pros: Zero stress. We use our volume contracts to get cheap freight rates.
Cons: Slightly less control over the specific vessel schedule.

Our Verdict

If you are a first-time importer, go with CIF. Let us handle the ocean risk. If you import 10+ containers a month, FOB might save you 2%.

#Logistics#Shipping#Import Guide#FOB
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