What is CFR? A Complete Guide to Cost and Freight in International Shipping
In international trade, the term CFR (Cost and Freight) frequently appears in contracts — yet many new exporters and importers still find it confusing.
As a professional freight forwarder based in Malaysia, TNSLOG SERVICES SDN BHD has handled countless CFR-based shipments across Asia, Europe, and the United States. This guide explains everything you need to know about CFR, from its definition and risk transfer point to its advantages, drawbacks, and best practices.
What Does CFR Mean in Incoterms 2020?
CFR (Cost and Freight) is one of the 11 trade terms defined by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) under Incoterms 2020.
It applies exclusively to sea and inland waterway transport, clarifying the division of cost and responsibility between buyer and seller.
In simple terms:
- The seller pays for the transport cost to the destination port.
- The buyer bears the risk once the goods are loaded onto the vessel at the port of shipment.
How CFR Works: Responsibilities of Seller and Buyer
| Stage | Seller's Responsibility | Buyer's Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Before Shipment | Production, packaging, export clearance, and delivery to port. | — |
| During Shipment | Pay freight to destination port. | Bear risk once cargo is loaded. |
| At Destination Port | — | Handle unloading, import customs, duties, and inland delivery. |
| Insurance | Optional | Buyer should purchase marine insurance. |
📌 Key Point: Under CFR, risk transfers at the loading point, not upon arrival. If the vessel encounters damage or delay at sea, the buyer must claim insurance.
🔄 Compare with CIF: Under CIF, the seller also pays for insurance, offering greater buyer protection. Under CFR, insurance is the buyer’s responsibility.
Why Is CFR So Popular?
According to ICC trade data, CFR accounts for nearly 15% of global sea freight contracts, especially in exports from Asia to North America and Europe.
At TNSLOG SERVICES SDN BHD, our clients often prefer CFR because it strikes the right balance between seller control and buyer convenience.
✅ Advantages of CFR
- Simplified export process – Seller handles freight booking and export documentation.
- Cost transparency – Freight cost included upfront.
- Efficiency – Suitable for bulk and regular sea shipments.
⚠️ Disadvantages of CFR
- Early risk transfer – Buyer assumes risk once cargo is on board.
- Limited route control – Buyer cannot choose the carrier or schedule.
- Insurance gap – Seller not obligated to insure cargo.
CFR vs CIF vs FOB: A Practical Comparison
| Term | Who Pays Freight? | Who Pays Insurance? | Risk Transfer Point | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFR (Cost and Freight) | Seller | Buyer | When goods are loaded on vessel | Bulk shipments with trusted buyer |
| CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight) | Seller | Seller | When goods are loaded on vessel | Buyers wanting lower risk |
| FOB (Free On Board) | Buyer | Buyer | When goods pass ship's rail | Buyers with strong logistics network |
Real-World Example: Malaysia to the U.S. Under CFR
A Malaysian electronics exporter ships goods to Port of Los Angeles under CFR Los Angeles terms.
- The seller pays for freight from Penang Port to Los Angeles.
- The buyer manages unloading, customs clearance, and final delivery.
If cargo is delayed or damaged mid-sea, risk lies with the buyer.
Through TNSLOG SERVICES SDN BHD, freight costs were optimized by 10%, and vessel tracking ensured full shipment visibility.
Expert Tips to Optimize Your CFR Shipments
- Specify Destination Clearly – Always state the full term, e.g. “CFR Singapore” or “CFR Los Angeles.”
- Insure Your Cargo – As risk passes early, buyers should purchase comprehensive marine insurance.
- Verify Shipping Documents – Ensure the seller provides a valid Bill of Lading (B/L) and Commercial Invoice.
- Combine with Door-to-Door Service – TNSLOG SERVICES SDN BHD can integrate sea freight with inland delivery for seamless logistics.
- Stay Updated – Review the latest ICC Incoterms 2020 updates to remain compliant.
Why Choose TNSLOG SERVICES SDN BHD for CFR Shipping?
As a leading Malaysian freight forwarding company, we specialize in CFR and other Incoterms-based logistics solutions.
Our services include:
- 📦 Customized freight quotations tailored to your trade route.
- 🧾 Documentation and compliance support for export and import.
- 🌍 Global logistics network covering key ports like Shanghai, Rotterdam, and Los Angeles.
- 🚢 Real-time cargo tracking for total shipment transparency.
Whether you’re an SME or a large exporter, TNSLOG SERVICES SDN BHD ensures your CFR shipments are cost-effective, compliant, and secure.
FAQs About CFR (Cost and Freight)
1. Is insurance included in CFR?
No. Under CFR, the seller is not responsible for insurance. The buyer must purchase their own marine insurance policy.
2. What’s the difference between CFR and CIF?
CFR covers only cost and freight; CIF includes insurance as well. Risk transfer timing is the same for both (when goods are loaded).
3. Can CFR be used for air or land transport?
4. When should I choose CFR over CIF?
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