Use it when
You have one FOB quote and one CIF quote for the same product and quantity, and you want to normalize the buyer-paid transport costs before comparing them.
Incoterm quote comparison
FOB vs CIF
Calculator
Put a FOB quote and a CIF quote on the same pre-duty cost basis before deciding which supplier offer is cheaper.
10
Normalize the quote scope before you compare unit price.
Step 01 / Quote inputs
Compare the same
delivery point.
Example values are for demonstration only.
FOB
FOB Quote
CIF
CIF Quote
Scope reminderCIF normally includes contracted carriage and insurance to the named destination port.Destination charges and import clearance may still remain with the buyer. Enter the costs you actually expect.
Enter both quotes and a quantity to compare normalized pre-duty cost.
| Quote | Quoted Product Value | Added Buyer Costs | Normalized Total | Normalized Cost / Unit | Difference / Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FOB | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| CIF | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
Normalize before comparing
FOB and CIF are
different scopes.
FOB and CIF allocate transport responsibilities differently, so the quoted unit prices are not directly comparable. This calculator adds the buyer-paid costs needed to bring both quotes to a similar pre-duty destination basis.
Import duty and tax are not included. Customs valuation and tax treatment vary by jurisdiction, so use the Import Duty Calculator or Landed Cost Calculator after normalizing the quote.
When to use this tool
Compare Incoterms on
one cost basis.
Use another tool when
You need duty, tax, customs clearance and final inland delivery in the result. After normalization, continue with the Landed Cost Calculator.
Continue to landed cost →Quick answers
FOB vs CIF
FAQ.
Why should FOB and CIF not be compared by unit price alone?
Because the quoted prices include different transport scopes. FOB normally leaves the main international freight with the buyer, while CIF includes contracted carriage and specified insurance to the named destination port.
Does CIF include import duty and destination delivery?
Not automatically. Import duty, import clearance, destination handling and inland delivery may still be buyer costs depending on the shipment and local arrangements.
Does a lower normalized cost always mean the better supplier?
No. Cost is only one decision factor. Product specification, quality, lead time, payment terms and supplier reliability still need separate review.