FAS – Free Alongside Ship
Incoterms® 2020 rule: transfer of risk, cost sharing and customs responsibilities.
The FAS rule in brief
FAS (Free Alongside Ship) is a rule in Incoterms® 2020 that can be used only for sea and inland waterway transport: "Free alongside ship". It sets, in the sales contract, how delivery of the goods and costs and risks are shared between seller and buyer.
When does risk transfer?
When the goods are delivered alongside the ship (on the quay)
Export clearance
The seller
Import clearance
The buyer
Seller's obligations
Delivers the goods alongside the vessel (on the quay) at the named port of shipment and clears them for export.
Buyer's obligations
Handles loading on board, sea carriage, insurance and import clearance.
When is it used?
Used for bulk and heavy cargo where the buyer manages the vessel charter; for containers, FCA is preferred.
This page is for general information; for the full scope of rights and obligations, see the ICC's official Incoterms® 2020 text and your contract terms.
Frequently asked questions
What is FAS?
FAS (Free Alongside Ship) is a rule in Incoterms® 2020 that can be used only for sea and inland waterway transport: "Free alongside ship". It sets, in the sales contract, how delivery of the goods and costs and risks are shared between seller and buyer.
What is the difference between FAS and FOB?
FAS: Delivers the goods alongside the vessel (on the quay) at the named port of shipment and clears them for export. FOB: Delivers the goods on board the vessel and clears them for export; risk passes to the buyer once the goods are loaded on board.