Freight Pre-paid: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Implications

Definition & Meaning

Freight prepaid refers to shipping costs that the shipper has already paid before the goods are transported. This payment occurs at the port of origin or loading point, and these charges are reflected in the invoice sent to the importer. It is important to note that freight prepaid charges are non-refundable, even if the shipment does not arrive at its intended destination.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

(hypothetical example) A company in the United States ships machinery to a buyer in Germany. The U.S. company pays the freight charges before the shipment leaves the port. These charges are included in the invoice sent to the German buyer. If the machinery is lost during transit, the U.S. company cannot reclaim the freight charges.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Freight Collect Shipping charges paid by the receiver upon delivery. In contrast to freight prepaid, the receiver bears the cost.
Freight Prepaid and Add Freight charges paid by the shipper but added to the invoice for the buyer. Charges are prepaid but later billed to the buyer, unlike freight prepaid where costs are settled upfront.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in shipping goods and the term freight prepaid applies to your situation, ensure that you clearly understand the payment terms. Review your invoices carefully. If you need to handle related documentation, consider using US Legal Forms for ready-to-use templates. For complex situations, seeking professional legal assistance may be beneficial.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Fees Varies based on shipment size and destination.
Jurisdiction Applicable in both domestic and international shipping.
Refund Policy Non-refundable once paid.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It means the shipper has paid the freight charges in advance before the shipment is transported.