FAS: Free Alongside Ship (Incoterms® 2020)
Under FAS the seller clears the goods for export and places them alongside the ship the buyer has chosen, on the quay or on a barge at the port of shipment. Risk passes there.
Quick facts
How to write it
FAS + the named port of shipment + Incoterms 2020, for example: FAS Port of Santos Incoterms 2020.
What the seller does
- Clears the goods for export.
- Brings the goods alongside the buyer's nominated vessel at the named port on the agreed date.
- Carries the risk until the goods are alongside.
- Provides the usual proof that the goods were delivered alongside.
What the buyer does
- Nominates the vessel and tells the seller the loading details.
- Pays loading onto the ship and the sea freight.
- Takes the risk once the goods are alongside and insures if it wishes.
- Clears the goods for import and pays duties and taxes.
When to use it
FAS is for sea and inland waterway transport of bulk, break-bulk or heavy cargo that is loaded directly from the quay, such as grain, logs or machinery. It is not meant for containers.
Common mistakes
- Using FAS for container shipments, where goods are handed over at a terminal, not alongside a ship. Use FCA instead.
- Not checking port customs on who pays which terminal charges.
- Naming the port without the loading berth or terminal when the port is large.
FAS vs FOB
Under FAS the seller delivers alongside the ship; under FOB it delivers on board. With FOB the seller also bears the cost and risk of loading onto the vessel.
A plain-language summary of Incoterms® 2020 for everyday use. The full rules are published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and your contract wording decides. Incoterms® is a registered trademark of the ICC.
All 11 Incoterms 2020 rules
Common questions
Can FAS be used for containers?
It is not recommended. Containers are handed over at a terminal before loading, so FCA fits better. FAS is for cargo delivered alongside the ship.
Who pays for loading onto the ship under FAS?
The buyer. The seller's obligation ends when the goods are alongside the vessel; loading is part of the buyer's costs.