Mastering CPT Shipping: Costs, Risk & Logistics Explained

What is CPT in shipping and how does it work?

CPT (Carriage Paid To) is an international shipping term where the seller pays for transporting goods to an agreed destination, but risk transfers to the buyer once goods are delivered to the first carrier. This means that while the seller arranges and covers transportation costs to the named destination, the buyer bears responsibility for any damage or loss during transit, even though they haven't physically received the goods yet.

When does risk transfer from seller to buyer under CPT shipping terms?

Under CPT shipping terms, the risk transfers from seller to buyer at the moment goods are delivered to the first carrier, not when they reach the final destination. This is a crucial distinction that often surprises new importers. Even though the seller continues to pay for transportation to the agreed destination, the buyer assumes all risk during transit, making proper insurance coverage essential.

What are the responsibilities of the seller and buyer under CPT?

Under CPT terms, the seller must arrange and pay for transportation to the named destination, handle export clearance, and provide necessary documentation proving delivery to the carrier. The buyer is responsible for insurance (though not mandatory), import duties and taxes, customs clearance at destination, and any unloading costs. Both parties should clearly document the exact handover point to avoid disputes about when risk transferred.

How does CPT shipping differ from CIF shipping terms?

While both CPT and CIF require sellers to pay for transportation to the destination, CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) additionally mandates that the seller provide insurance during transit. CIF applies only to sea and inland waterway transport, whereas CPT can be used with any transport method. Under both terms, risk transfers early – when goods are delivered to the first carrier in CPT or loaded onto the vessel in CIF.

Is insurance required under CPT shipping terms?

Insurance is not required as part of CPT shipping terms, but it's highly recommended that buyers arrange their own cargo insurance. Since risk transfers to the buyer when goods are handed to the first carrier, buyers remain responsible for any damage during transit without having physical control over the shipment. Industry experts recommend comprehensive marine cargo insurance that covers door-to-door transport.

What documentation is needed for CPT shipping arrangements?

For CPT shipping, essential documentation includes: the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill (proving delivery to the carrier), certificate of origin (if required for customs), and export licenses. The seller must provide proof that goods were delivered to the carrier, while buyers need documentation for import clearance. Clear documentation is critical since approximately 30% of shipping claims involve disputes about when risk transferred.