B1 - Import and Export

20 words and phrases typically used in the import-export business context.

bill of lading n. list of goods and shipping instructions; waybill

c.&f. abbr. cost & freight: includes shipping to named port but not

insurance

c.i.f. abbr. cost, insurance & freight: includes insurance and shipping

to named port

cargo n. goods or products that are being transported or shipped

certificate of origin n. a document that shows where goods come from

container n. huge box to hold goods for transport - container port n.

to containerise v.

customs n. 1 government tax or duty on imported goods

2 officials who collect this tax

declare v. to make a statement of taxable goods - customs

declaration form n.

f.a.s. abbr. free alongside ship [includes delivery to quayside but not

loading]

f.o.b. abbr. free on board: includes loading onto ship

freight n. goods being transported; cargo

irrevocable adj. that cannot be undone; unalterable - irrevocable letter of

credit n. - letter of credit n. a letter from a bank authorising a

person to draw money from another bank

merchandise n. things bought and sold; commodities; wares - also v.

packing list n. a document that is sent with goods to show that they have

been checked

pro forma invoice n. an invoice or request for payment sent in advance of goods

supplied

quay n. a solid, artificial landing place for (un)loading ships; wharf -

quayside n.

ship v. to send or transport by land, sea or air - also n. shipment n.

shipping agent n. a person acting for or representing a ship or

ships at a port

waybill n. list of goods and shipping instructions; bill of lading - air

waybill n.