Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: ETD (Estimated Time of Departure) • Charter Party • Stevedoring

Incoterms

Term from Marine Travel industry explained for recruiters

Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) are standardized rules that help shipping and logistics companies clearly communicate who is responsible for what during international trade. Think of them as a universal language for shipping responsibilities - they specify who pays for transport, who handles customs, and who is responsible if something goes wrong with the shipment. Common examples include FOB (Free On Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight). These terms are crucial for anyone working in international shipping, trade, or logistics to understand, as they appear in most international trade documents and job responsibilities.

Examples in Resumes

Managed international shipments using Incoterms 2020 rules for major corporate clients

Trained staff on proper application of Incoterms in shipping documentation

Negotiated shipping contracts incorporating Incoterms to ensure clear responsibility allocation

Typical job title: "Shipping Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Logistics Coordinator Trade Operations Specialist Freight Forwarder Import/Export Specialist Shipping Manager International Trade Specialist Supply Chain Coordinator

Where to Find Shipping Coordinators

Professional Organizations

Online Resources

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a dispute between parties regarding shipping responsibilities under different Incoterms?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain the process of reviewing the contract terms, consulting Incoterms 2020 official guidelines, and mediating between parties to reach a resolution. They should also mention documentation requirements and risk management strategies.

Q: How do you stay updated with changes in Incoterms and implement them across an organization?

Expected Answer: Should discuss monitoring ICC updates, creating training programs for staff, updating company documentation and procedures, and ensuring compliance across all departments.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain the difference between FOB and CIF terms.

Expected Answer: Should explain that FOB means the seller is responsible until goods are on the ship, while CIF means the seller also pays for insurance and freight to the destination port. Should give practical examples of when each is used.

Q: How do you determine which Incoterm is most appropriate for a specific shipment?

Expected Answer: Should discuss considering factors like type of goods, transportation mode, buyer/seller preferences, and cost implications when choosing appropriate terms.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are Incoterms and why are they important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that Incoterms are standardized international trade terms that define responsibilities between buyers and sellers in global trade, helping prevent misunderstandings about costs and risks.

Q: Name three common Incoterms and their basic meanings.

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic terms like EXW (Ex Works - minimal seller obligation), FOB (Free on Board - seller delivers to vessel), and CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight - seller arranges shipping and insurance).