FOB vs CIF: Which Pricing Option Is Better for Used Car Importers?
Understand the difference between FOB and CIF pricing when importing vehicles from China, and which option suits your business model.
- 1.What Is FOB?
- 2.What Is CIF?
- 3.Cost Comparison
- 4.Which Is Right for Your Business?
- 5.How to Get CIF Quotes
What Is FOB (Free On Board)?
FOB means the seller's responsibility ends when the vehicle is loaded onto the vessel at the origin port. You as the buyer are responsible for freight, insurance, and all costs from that point. FOB pricing is typically what exporters quote first. It gives you more control — you can arrange your own freight forwarder and insurance, potentially at better rates.
What Is CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)?
CIF means the seller covers the cost of freight and insurance to the named destination port. You receive a single all-in price to your port. CIF is simpler for dealers who do not have established freight relationships, and makes landed-cost calculation straightforward.
Cost Comparison Example
Example: A used BYD Atto 3 at FOB Shanghai $19,800. Freight Shanghai–Mombasa approximately $650–900 per unit (RoRo). Marine insurance approximately 0.5% of cargo value. Total estimated CIF Mombasa: approximately $20,600–21,000. A good exporter will give you a CIF quote close to this with no hidden charges.
Which Is Right for Your Business?
Choose FOB if: you have an established freight forwarder relationship, you are buying in volume (10+ units), or you want full control over the supply chain. Choose CIF if: you are placing your first order, you want a predictable total cost, or your freight forwarder charges more than the exporter's logistics partner.
How to Get CIF Quotes
Contact us with your destination port, vehicle selection, and quantity. We will send a full CIF quotation within 24 hours, including breakdown of freight, insurance, and any applicable surcharges. All quotes are valid for 7 days.
Recommended Vehicles
Dealer FAQ
Yes. Used vehicles have MOQ from 1 unit. New vehicles typically require 5 units per model.
Yes. Contact us with your destination port and vehicle selection. We provide detailed CIF quotations within 24 hours.
Yes. All used vehicles include a 200-point inspection report. Third-party SGS or BV audit is available on request.
Ready to Start Importing?
Talk to our dealer sales team. We respond within 2 hours.