In this episode, we move beyond tariffs to explore the fine print that truly shapes global trade — shipping contracts and Incoterms®. These aren’t just technical details; they’re the backbone of every international deal, deciding who pays for what, who carries the risk, and how companies can protect themselves when new tariffs or disruptions hit.
We break down:
The key elements of a solid shipping contract.
How Incoterms® define responsibilities between buyers and sellers, and how choosing the wrong one (like DDP instead of FOB) can lead to unexpected tariff costs.
Real-world scenarios where mismatched contracts and Incoterms left companies exposed to sudden tariff hikes, insurance gaps, and delivery disputes.
Practical steps to align your contracts and Incoterms to reduce risk, build flexibility, and protect your margins.
You’ll learn how contracts and Incoterms work together as a risk-management toolkit — and why a well-written clause can save your business thousands when trade policies or tariffs change overnight.
Key takeaway:
“Contracts set the rules, Incoterms set the responsibilities — and tariffs test how well you’ve written both.”
Listen if you’re:
An importer/exporter managing international shipments
A freight forwarder or logistics professional
A business owner navigating global supply chains
Or anyone who wants to understand how trade agreements translate into real-world risk