Difference between FOB and CIF Incoterm, Import Export knowledge, Profitable business FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) are different Incoterms used in international trade. In FOB, the exporter is responsible for delivering the container safely onto the ship. The buyer books the container and also takes the marine insurance. The exporter's risk is only until the port. In CIF, the exporter is responsible for booking the container and also taking the marine insurance. The