Incoterms Responsibility Chart

Our interactive Incoterms visualizer makes it easy to understand who is responsible for what at each stage of international shipping. Simply select an Incoterm to see the complete breakdown of cost and risk between buyer and seller.

How to Use This Incoterms Visualizer

Using our Incoterms responsibility chart is simple:

• Select your Incoterm from the dropdown or button group
• View the matrix to see who pays for each stage
• Blue indicates seller responsibility
• Orange indicates buyer responsibility
• Compare different Incoterms to find the best option for your shipment

FCA Incoterms

FCA (Free Carrier) is one of the most commonly used Incoterms. Under FCA, the seller is responsible for export clearance and delivering goods to the carrier. Risk transfers to the buyer at that point. This term is versatile and works for all modes of transport. It is often preferred over FOB for modern logistics where goods may switch between transport modes.

DAP Incoterms

DAP (Delivered at Place) is increasingly popular because the seller delivers goods ready for unloading at the destination, but the buyer handles import clearance. This balances seller responsibility for transport with buyer responsibility for customs. It is ideal for buyers who want to handle their own customs clearance.

DAP vs. FCA: Which Should You Choose?

The choice between DAP and FCA depends on your logistics capabilities and preferences. Choose FCA if you want minimal responsibility and are comfortable arranging your own freight and import clearance. Choose DAP if you want the seller to handle more of the transport but you still want control over customs. DAP typically costs more for the seller but simplifies things for the buyer.

Where Does Risk Transfer Happen?

The key to understanding Incoterms is knowing exactly when risk transfers from seller to buyer. In most cases, risk transfers when goods are delivered to the first carrier (for E, F, C terms) or at the destination (for D terms). Our visualizer clearly shows this transfer point for each Incoterm so you know exactly when you assume liability for your shipment.