Incoterms for meat export: what buyers need to know

The most common Incoterms for Indian meat export are FOB (Free On Board), CFR (Cost and Freight) and CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight). Under FOB, risk transfers to the buyer once the container is on board the vessel at the Indian port. Under CIF, the seller arranges and pays for freight and insurance to the destination port, but risk still transfers on loading.

For frozen meat, the practical implication is: who is responsible for the reefer temperature setting and monitoring during transit? The seller sets the reefer before loading. After loading, the vessel's crew manage the equipment. The buyer's port agent arranges discharge and onward transport. Problems that arise after loading are typically the buyer's risk under both FOB and CIF.

Temperature excursions during transit are documented by the reefer's continuous log. If a buyer receives a lot above −12°C core and wishes to raise a claim, the reefer log is the primary evidence. Buyers should always check the log on receipt before accepting and clearing through customs.

We discuss Incoterm preference at the enquiry stage and advise based on the buyer's destination port capability. Buyers who are new to Indian origin sometimes prefer CIF for the first few consignments so the seller handles the freight arrangements while the buyer builds familiarity with the route.