What are FCA (Free Carrier) Incoterms?

FCA (Free Carrier) is an Incoterm that defines the responsibilities of the buyer and the seller in a contract for the sale of goods. Under FCA, the seller is responsible for making the goods available to the carrier (or other nominated person) at the seller's premises or another named place, such as a factory or warehouse, and loading them on the transport vehicle. The buyer is responsible for arranging and paying for the transportation, insurance, and any other costs associated with the delivery of the goods from that point on.

When using FCA, the seller is responsible for loading the goods on the transport vehicle, but the buyer is responsible for the costs and risks associated with the transportation of the goods from the point of delivery to the final destination. The seller is also responsible for obtaining any export clearance required and arranging for transport to the named place.

FCA is typically used when the buyer and the seller have a long-standing relationship and the buyer is familiar with the export procedures, or when the buyer is based in the same country as the seller and can arrange for the goods to be transported easily. This term can be used for any mode of transport, including sea, air, rail and road. It is also a good option when the transport is arranged by a freight forwarder.