of
  • Service Alert due to Situation in Ukraine...More
Skip To Main Content
UPS Supply Chain Solutions®

Free Alongside Ship (FAS)

What is Free Alongside Ship (FAS)?

An Incoterms® rule, applicable only to ocean or waterway transport, under which the seller is responsible for clearing the goods for export and placing them alongside the vessel at the named port of delivery.


Risk of loss or damage transfers to buyer when goods are alongside the ship, and buyer is responsible for loading the goods onto the vessel, and all costs associated with that process, as well as the cost of shipment to the final destination.


When using the FAS Incoterms® rule, it is advisable to clearly specify the named port of shipment, as well as the precise loading point within the port, in the contract of sale (and, separately, the contract of carriage).


This particular Incoterms® rule is often used with bulk cargo. For containerized cargo, which is usually delivered to a yard or terminal prior to loading (rather than directly to the ship), this Incoterms® rule would present complications. In such cases, consider using the FCA Incoterms® rule instead.


Note:

When an Incoterms® rule is included in a contract of sale, it creates legal obligations for the buyer and seller, which can have costly implications. Therefore, it is important that traders read and understand the precise wording of the Incoterms® rules carefully and choose the rule to include in their sale contract thoughtfully. For additional information and resources on the Incoterms® rules, and to purchase the full text of the Incoterms® 2020 rules, visit the ICC website.


Related Terms

Bulk Cargo Consignee Consignor Free Carrier (FCA) Free on Board (FOB) Incoterms


Related FAQs


Why are Incoterms rules necessary?

How many Incoterms rules are there?

What do Incoterms rules cover?

What don't Incoterms rules cover?

What can I do right now to help my business with Incoterms rules?

How do Incoterms rules affect my shipment?

How can I protect myself from risk using Incoterms rules?

Are Incoterms rules a complete contract of sale?

Box Icon

Get Started with an Air or Ocean Quote

On our UPS® Forwarding Hub, get and compare quotes, book shipments, and track them end-to-end on one modern, easy-to-navigate dashboard. Get a quote to start booking today.

Get a Quote Open the link in a new window UPS<sup>®</sup> Forwarding Hub Application on mobile devices
Mail Icon

Insight in Your Inbox

Never miss out on the latest industry news, expert insights, and promotions. We'll send you what you need to know to keep your freight moving.

Sign Me Up Open the link in a new window UPS Global Freight Forwarding promotional email on tablet