Guide
Incoterms, International Transportation, Import and
Export
Chapter 1. Introduction to International Trade
• What Is International Trade?
• Imports vs. Exports
• Key Participants in International Trade
• The International Logistics Chain
Chapter 2. Incoterms® 2020
• What Are Incoterms?
• What They Cover—and What They Do Not
• The 11 Incoterms® 2020 Rules
• Comparative Table
• Risk and Cost Transfer
Chapter 3. International Transportation
• Ocean Freight
• Air Freight
• Road Transportation
• Rail Transportation
• Multimodal Transportation
• Advantages and Disadvantages
• Choosing the Right Mode of Transport
Chapter 4. Shipping Containers
• Dry Van Containers
• High Cube Containers
• Open Top Containers
• Flat Rack Containers
• Reefer (Refrigerated) Containers
• Tank Containers
• Dimensions and Specifications
• Capacity
• Common Applications
,Chapter 5. Packaging and Palletization
• Types of Packaging
• Pallets
• ISPM 15 Standard
• Cargo Protection
Chapter 6. International Trade Documentation
• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading (B/L)
• Air Waybill (AWB)
• Certificate of Origin
• Cargo Insurance
• Additional Trade Documents
Chapter 7. Import Cost Calculation
• FOB Value
• Freight Costs
• Insurance
• CIF Value
• Customs Duties and Taxes
• Other Import Charges
• Step-by-Step Cost Calculation Example
Chapter 8. The Import Process
• From Purchase to Final Delivery
• Process Flow Diagram
Chapter 9. The Export Process
• Step-by-Step Export Procedure
• Export Requirements
• Export Documentation
Appendices
• International Trade Glossary
• Common Trade Acronyms (FOB, CIF, AWB, B/L, FCL, LCL, etc.)
• Incoterms® 2020 Comparison Chart
• Final Mind Map
, Chapter 1 – Introduction to International
Trade
1.1 What Is International Trade?
International trade is the exchange of goods, services, technology, and capital between
two or more countries. It enables nations to purchase products that are not produced
domestically or that would be more expensive to manufacture locally, while exporting
products and services in which they have a competitive advantage.
The two primary activities in international trade are imports and exports. An import is
the purchase of goods or services from another country, whereas an export is the sale of
goods or services to foreign markets. International trade also includes foreign
investment, technology transfer, and the cross-border provision of services.
By participating in international trade, countries can specialize in producing goods and
services for which they possess the best resources, expertise, or production capabilities.
This specialization allows them to benefit from comparative advantages and, in some
cases, absolute advantages, resulting in a more efficient allocation of resources.
Today, international trade plays a vital role in the global economy. Globalization,
advances in transportation, and technological innovation have made cross-border trade
faster and more accessible, providing consumers with a wider variety of products while
creating new business opportunities for companies worldwide.
What Is an Import?
An import is the process of bringing goods into a country from abroad in compliance
with the applicable customs regulations. Imported goods may be intended for
consumption, manufacturing, resale, or any other legally authorized purpose.
In simple terms, importing means purchasing products from another country and legally
bringing them into the destination country.
What Is an Importer?
An importer is an individual or business that brings goods into a country. The importer
is responsible for ensuring compliance with customs requirements, submitting the
necessary documentation, paying applicable duties and taxes, and meeting all legal and
regulatory obligations.
What Is an Export?
An export is the process of shipping goods from one country to another for sale or
distribution in foreign markets.