Shipping Terms

When an international trade contract includes the term free alongside or FAS, the word "free" means the seller must deliver the goods to a specific port, while "alongside" means that the goods will be within reach of the designated ship's lifting tackle.

Free Alongside Ship is a term used in international trade means that the seller delivers when the goods are placed alongside the vessel (e.g., on a quay or a barge) nominated by the buyer at the named port of shipment. The risk of loss of or damage to the goods passes when the goods are alongside the ship, and the buyer bears all costs from that moment onwards.