General summary

Incoterms 2020 is the ninth set of pre-defined international contract terms published by the International Chamber of Commerce, with the first set having been published in 1936. Incoterms 2020 defines 11 rules, down from the 11 rules defined by Incoterms 2010. There is renamed DAT (Delivered at Terminal) by Delivered at Place Unloaded (DPU).

Incoterms 2020 are still divided to 11 pre-defined terms of Incoterms 2010 are subdivided into two categories based only on method of delivery. The larger group of seven rules may be used regardless of the method of transport, with the smaller group of four being applicable only to sales that solely involve transportation by water where the condition of the goods can be verified at the point of loading on board ship. They are therefore not to be used for containerized freight, other combined transport methods, or for transport by road, air or rail.

Other changes include:

FCA (Free Carrier) now allows for Bills of Lading to be issued after loading

CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) and CIP (Carriage and Insurance Paid To) set out new standard insurance arrangements, but the level of insurance continues to be negotiable between buyer and seller.
Where listed, cost allocation between buyer and seller is stated more precisely – one article lists all costs the seller and the buyer are responsible for.

FCA (Free Carrier), DAP (Delivered at Place), DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) now take account of buyer and seller arranging their own transport rather than using a third party.
Security-related obligations are now more prominent.

“Explanatory Notes for Users” for each Incoterm® have replaced the 2010 edition’s Guidance Notes, and are designed to be easier for users.
CIP now requires as default insurance coverage ICC A or equivalent. It was ICC C under Incoterms® 2010. Required insurance coverage under CIF remains.