Incoterms Rules
FAS — Free Alongside Ship
FAS (Free Alongside Ship) is used exclusively in maritime transport. The seller delivers the goods to the port of shipment and places them alongside the vessel. At this point, the risks transfer to the buyer, who then organizes loading, transportation, and further stages. This term is mainly used for bulk or oversized cargo.
Who does what
| Transport | Sea and inland waterway |
|---|---|
| Export clearance | Seller |
| Import clearance | Buyer |
| Main carriage paid by | Buyer |
| Insurance | Not required |
| Risk passes to the buyer | When the goods are placed alongside the vessel at the port of shipment |
When to use it
For bulk or oversized cargo that is brought to the quay and loaded by the buyer's stevedores. Sea and inland waterway only.
What to watch
Risk passes at the ship's side, before loading, so loading is at the buyer's cost and risk. For containers, which reach the carrier at a terminal before loading, FCA fits better.