Incoterms

A superb book on fully understanding all the crucial incoterms used in foreign trade. Our firm relies heavily on this publication to protect our clients' interests as well as our own.

INCOTERMS are the definition of terms used in international trade contracts as maintained by the International Chamber of Commerce. It is not possible to be a successful exporter without having and using the information contained in this reference guide. It covers everything from quoting prices to shipping overseas and collecting upon receipt of shipment. Our consulting staff recommends this industry-standard publication to all of our clients - without exception!

No sane person reads about INCO terms for fun, and if your work requires that you understand the details of international quotes & shipping then this is a required reference work. The author, who sat on the international drafting committee, is perhaps as knowledgable on this subject as any American. He also teaches an excellent seminar on the subject.

After I first read Mr. Reynold's predecessor book on Incoterms I felt I finally understood this technical topic. The new book, fully revised for Incoterms 2000, follows the same format. Each chapter is devoted to one of the 13 Incoterms so it can be easily digested. Each chapter contains an easy to read scenario of how the Incoterm may be used in a real international trade transaction and how it affects all other phases of the transaction including the ability or inability to collect payment.

The most valuable feature is the ending section of each chapter, entitled "American Perspective." It discusses how Americans should or should not use this particular term, or at least be aware of any caution flags.

Incoterms for Americans is a valuable commentary on an important topic.

The subject of Incoterms is almost arcane in American jargon. The previous version was less readable even though the format was similar. I suggest that everyone trash their 1990 version and take advantage of the changes in format so that you can explain the meaning and impact of the Incoterms 2000 to your organization.

This book is a must for every sales,logitics and shipping managers who intend to work seriouly on a worldwide basis. Incoterms are the keys of international commerce and must be understood by all parties involved.

This book may not be the most enjoyable you've ever read, but it is the offical guide put out by the ICC. It is broken down by Incoterm and into each category of obligation by the seller and buyer. This is the book that will be translated into multiple languages for everyone in the world to read. You really can't ask for more. However, if you are new to Incoterms, don't expect to understand it after going through it only once. It's still not an easy subject to grasp for new exporters/importers.

For American exporters/importers I would definately recommend reading a supplementary book put out specifically for Americans. Incoterms are partially written with European countries in mind, so there are important considerations for countries with borders and exports laws similar to the USA. The best supplimentary book I've seen so far is "Incoterms for Americans" by Frank Reynolds, the USA representative to the Incoterms 2000 revision meeting. The 2000 version may not be officially out yet. I got it at a seminar.