FCA – Free Carrier
Incoterms® 2020 rule: transfer of risk, cost sharing and customs responsibilities.
The FCA rule in brief
FCA (Free Carrier) is a rule in Incoterms® 2020 that can be used for any mode of transport: "Free carrier". 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 handed over to the buyer's carrier at the named place
Export clearance
The seller
Import clearance
The buyer
Seller's obligations
Delivers the goods, cleared for export, to the carrier nominated by the buyer at the named place; risk passes to the buyer on delivery.
Buyer's obligations
Arranges and pays the main carriage, handles import clearance and bears risk after delivery.
When is it used?
It is one of the most commonly chosen rules for container and multimodal transport; the exporter keeps responsibility for customs clearance.
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 FCA?
FCA (Free Carrier) is a rule in Incoterms® 2020 that can be used for any mode of transport: "Free carrier". 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 FCA and EXW?
FCA: Delivers the goods, cleared for export, to the carrier nominated by the buyer at the named place; risk passes to the buyer on delivery. EXW: Makes the goods available at its own premises. Loading, export clearance and transport are not the seller's responsibility.