When you compare fabric quotations, the price per metre only tells part of the story. The trade term decides who arranges transport, who pays for each stage and where responsibility passes from the supplier to you. Two quotes that look different may simply be on different terms. This guide explains the three terms we offer and when each one makes sense.
The three terms at a glance
| EXW (Ex Works) | FOB (Free On Board) | CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where we hand over | Our premises in Shaoxing | On board the vessel at Ningbo or Shanghai | On board at the port of loading; we pay freight and insurance to your destination port |
| Who arranges export and main freight | You | We handle export to the port; you arrange the main freight | We arrange freight and insurance to your destination port |
| Best for | Buyers with their own China forwarder | Buyers with a forwarder or consolidation in their home market | Buyers who want one landed-at-port price |
EXW: you control everything from our door
Under EXW, the price covers the fabric ready for collection. Your forwarder collects from us and handles everything after that. EXW suits buyers who already consolidate goods from several Chinese suppliers. It gives you the most control, but also the most work.
FOB Ningbo / Shanghai: the most common choice
Under FOB, we deliver the goods on board the vessel at Ningbo or Shanghai. Your forwarder handles the sea freight from there. FOB is popular because you keep control of the main freight cost while we handle the China side.
CIF: one price to your destination port
Under CIF, we arrange and pay for sea freight and insurance to your destination port. It is the simplest option if you do not have a forwarder. Note that under CIF, responsibility for the goods still passes to you once they are loaded at the port of origin, and import duties and destination charges are paid by the buyer.
How we ship bulk, urgent orders and samples
- Bulk orders: by sea.
- Urgent orders: by air.
- Samples: by DHL or FedEx. In-stock samples are usually dispatched the same day.
Freight cost and transit time depend on your destination, quantity and shipping method, and are confirmed with your quotation.
What to tell us when you ask for a quote
To get a quotation on the right terms, include your destination port or city, your preferred term (EXW, FOB or CIF) and whether the order is urgent. For the full list of details we need, see how to request a linen fabric quotation.