FAS, or Free Alongside Ship, is an international trade term specified in the Incoterms rules published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). FAS is typically used in sea freight transactions, and it outlines the responsibilities, costs, and risks between the seller and the buyer.

Delivery Point

In an FAS transaction, the seller is responsible for delivering the goods alongside the named vessel at the specified port of shipment. The seller is not responsible for loading the goods onto the vessel, as that falls under the responsibility of the buyer.

Seller's Responsibilities

Under FAS, the seller is responsible for:

• Packaging and preparing the goods for export.
• Transporting the goods to the port of shipment and delivering them alongside the vessel that will be used for transport.
• Providing the buyer with any necessary documents, like invoices, export licenses, or other documentation.

Buyer's Responsibilities

• Loading the goods onto the vessel.
• Paying for all transportation costs from the named port of shipment to the final destination.
• Handling import customs formalities, duties, taxes, and clearances.

Transfer of Risk

Risk is transferred from the seller to the buyer when the goods are placed alongside the vessel at the named port of shipment. Any damage, loss, or risk associated with the goods becomes the responsibility of the buyer from that point onward.

FAS is often used when the buyer has more experience and control over the shipping process, especially the loading of goods onto the vessel. This Incoterm is particularly suitable for transactions where goods are shipped via sea transport, and the buyer has a trusted presence at the port of shipment.