---
title: "Bi"
description: "Both Inclusive"
url: "https://oceancargo.co.uk/shipping-terms/bi"
date: "2026-04-29T07:52:20+00:00"
language: "en-GB"
---

![Ocean Cargo](https://oceancargo.co.uk/images/GenPics/OCs-Customs-Brokerage.webp)

 # Understanding BI (Both Inclusive) in Freight Forwarding: A Comprehensive Guide

## What Does BI (Both Inclusive) Mean in Shipping?

In the intricate world of global logistics, clarity in pricing and service scope is paramount. One acronym you might encounter, particularly when discussing freight quotes, is **BI, which stands for "Both Inclusive."** At its core, BI signifies that the quoted price covers charges at both the origin and destination points of a shipment, encompassing a wide range of services and fees.

For businesses relying on efficient and predictable supply chains, understanding BI is crucial. It offers a level of transparency that helps in budgeting and avoids unexpected costs, a common concern for those new to international trade. Ocean Cargo, with over 25 years of experience, champions clear communication, ensuring our clients fully grasp what their freight quotes entail, including when terms like BI are applied.

While the term "Both Inclusive" might sound straightforward, the specific components it covers can vary depending on the freight forwarder, the mode of transport (sea freight, air freight, road freight), and the Incoterms® agreed upon. This guide will delve into the typical inclusions, benefits, and considerations when dealing with BI quotes.

## The Components of a "Both Inclusive" Quote

A BI quote aims to provide a comprehensive cost for the movement of goods from a specified origin point to a specified destination point. While not exhaustive of every single potential charge (as some highly specific or unforeseen costs might still arise), it typically covers the most significant and common expenses. Here’s a breakdown of what you can generally expect:

### Origin Charges (Pre-Carriage)

- **Haulage to Port/Airport:** The cost of transporting your goods from the supplier's warehouse to the departure port or airport. This could involve [road freight](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/road-freight/) services.
- **Terminal Handling Charges (THC):** Fees levied by the port or airport authority for handling the cargo at the origin terminal, including loading onto the vessel or aircraft.
- **Documentation Fees:** Costs associated with preparing and processing necessary export documents, such as Bills of Lading or Air Waybills.
- **Customs Clearance (Export):** Charges for the formal declaration of goods to customs authorities in the country of origin. Ocean Cargo's [customs compliance services](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/customs-compliance/) ensure this is handled efficiently.
- **Security Fees:** Charges related to security screening and measures at the origin terminal.

### Main Carriage Charges

- **Ocean Freight / Air Freight:** The primary cost for transporting the goods from the origin port/airport to the destination port/airport. This is the core charge for [sea freight](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/sea-freight/) or [air freight](https://oceancargo.co.uk/services/air-freight/).
- **Fuel Surcharges (BAF/FAF/EBS):** Variable charges to account for fluctuations in fuel prices.
- **Currency Adjustment Factors (CAF):** Charges to mitigate risks associated with currency exchange rate fluctuations.

### Destination Charges (On-Carriage)

- **Terminal Handling Charges (THC):** Similar to origin, these are fees for handling the cargo at the destination port or airport, including unloading.
- **Customs Clearance (Import):** Charges for the formal declaration of goods to customs authorities in the country of destination. This is a critical step, and Ocean Cargo provides expert [customs brokerage for the USA](https://oceancargo.co.uk/countries/usa/customs-brokerage-usa), for example.
- **Duty and Taxes (Often Excluded, but Clarify):** While BI covers many charges, import duties and taxes are typically \*not\* included unless explicitly stated. Always confirm this with your freight forwarder.
- **Haulage from Port/Airport:** The cost of transporting your goods from the destination port or airport to the final delivery point, such as your warehouse.
- **Storage/Demurrage/Detention (If Applicable):** While BI aims to cover standard movements, extended storage at the port (demurrage) or with the carrier's equipment (detention) due to delays on the consignee's part would typically be extra.

It's vital to remember that "Both Inclusive" is a general term. Always request a detailed breakdown from your freight forwarder to understand precisely what is and isn't covered. Ocean Cargo prides itself on transparent quotes, ensuring you have a clear picture of your total shipping costs.

## The Benefits of Opting for a BI (Both Inclusive) Quote

For businesses engaged in international trade, a BI quote offers several compelling advantages that contribute to smoother operations and better financial planning:

- **Cost Predictability:** The primary benefit is a clearer understanding of the total shipping cost upfront. This helps in accurate budgeting and pricing of your products, reducing the risk of unexpected charges eroding profit margins.
- **Simplified Administration:** With many charges consolidated into one quote, the administrative burden of managing multiple invoices from different service providers (hauliers, port authorities, customs brokers) is significantly reduced.
- **Reduced Risk of Hidden Fees:** While no quote can cover every single unforeseen event, a BI quote minimises the chances of encountering numerous small, unexpected fees that can quickly add up. It provides a more holistic view of the logistics expenditure.
- **Streamlined Communication:** Dealing with a single point of contact – your freight forwarder – for a comprehensive service simplifies communication and problem-solving. Ocean Cargo acts as your strategic partner, managing the complexities on your behalf.
- **Improved Supply Chain Efficiency:** By having a clear scope of services, you can better plan your supply chain, from factory gate to final delivery. This is particularly beneficial for complex routes, such as shipping [excavators and diggers to the UAE](https://oceancargo.co.uk/countries/uae/excavators-diggers-uae), where multiple touchpoints are involved.

Choosing a freight forwarder like Ocean Cargo that offers transparent BI quotes means you can focus on your core business, confident that your logistics are in expert hands.

## When is BI (Both Inclusive) Most Suitable?

While the concept of "Both Inclusive" is appealing for its simplicity, it's particularly advantageous in certain scenarios:

- **For New Importers/Exporters:** Businesses new to international shipping often find the array of charges overwhelming. A BI quote simplifies the financial aspect, making the process less daunting.
- **For Budget-Conscious Shipments:** When strict budget adherence is critical, a BI quote provides the best possible cost certainty, allowing for accurate landed cost calculations.
- **For Complex Routes:** Shipping to destinations with intricate customs procedures or multiple transit points, such as [wind turbine components to Australia](https://oceancargo.co.uk/countries/australia/wind-turbine-components-blades-nacelles-tower-sections-australia), benefits from a consolidated pricing structure.
- **When Time is of the Essence:** Reducing the time spent on reconciling various invoices and understanding disparate charges frees up valuable resources.
- **For Door-to-Door Services:** BI aligns perfectly with door-to-door logistics solutions, where the freight forwarder manages the entire journey from the seller's premises to the buyer's.

Ocean Cargo's consultative approach means we help you determine if a BI quote is the most appropriate and cost-effective solution for your specific shipping needs, whether it's [sea freight services to Canada](https://oceancargo.co.uk/countries/canada/sea-freight-canada) or air freight to the Far East.

## Key Considerations and What to Clarify

While BI offers significant advantages, it's crucial to engage with your freight forwarder to understand the precise scope of what's included. Here are key points to clarify:

1. **Incoterms®:** Always confirm the Incoterms® rule being used (e.g., EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP). While BI covers many charges, Incoterms® define the exact point at which risk and cost transfer from seller to buyer, which can influence what a BI quote covers.
2. **Duties and Taxes:** This is the most common exclusion from a standard BI quote. Always ask specifically if import duties, VAT, or other local taxes at the destination are included. If not, ensure you understand who is responsible for these and how they will be paid.
3. **Insurance:** Clarify whether cargo insurance is included in the BI quote. While Ocean Cargo can arrange comprehensive cargo insurance, it's often an additional service rather than a standard inclusion in a basic BI freight rate.
4. **Demurrage and Detention:** Understand the free time allowed at both origin and destination ports/terminals for containers and equipment. Charges for exceeding this free time (demurrage for port storage, detention for carrier equipment) are almost always extra.
5. **Special Handling:** If your cargo requires special handling (e.g., hazardous materials, oversized cargo, temperature-controlled goods), confirm if any associated surcharges are part of the BI quote.
6. **Delivery Terms:** Specify the exact delivery point at the destination (e.g., "door delivery," "port only," "warehouse"). This ensures the final leg of the journey is accounted for.
7. **Weight and Volume Limits:** Ensure the BI quote is based on the actual or estimated weight and volume of your shipment. Discrepancies can lead to additional charges.

Ocean Cargo believes in complete transparency. Our team of logistics experts will walk you through every aspect of your quote, ensuring you have full confidence in your shipping costs and service inclusions. Don't hesitate to [contact us](https://oceancargo.co.uk/contact-us/) with any questions.

## Frequently Asked Questions About BI (Both Inclusive)

#### Is BI the same as DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)?

No, not necessarily. While both aim for a comprehensive price, DDP is an Incoterm® that specifically means the seller is responsible for delivering the goods to the named place of destination, cleared for import, and paying all duties and taxes. A BI quote, while "both inclusive" of many charges, typically does NOT include import duties and taxes unless explicitly stated. Always clarify this distinction.

#### Does a BI quote include cargo insurance?

Generally, a standard BI freight quote does not automatically include cargo insurance. While Ocean Cargo can arrange comprehensive cargo insurance for your peace of mind, it is usually an additional service that needs to be specifically requested and quoted. It's crucial to discuss your insurance needs with your freight forwarder.

#### What if there are unexpected delays at the destination? Are those covered by BI?

A BI quote covers the standard movement and associated charges. However, costs arising from unexpected delays at the destination, such as demurrage (storage at the port) or detention (extended use of the carrier's container), are typically not included. These charges usually occur if the consignee fails to clear customs or pick up the cargo within the allotted "free time."

#### Can Ocean Cargo provide a BI quote for my specific shipment?

Absolutely. Ocean Cargo specialises in providing clear, comprehensive, and competitive freight quotes tailored to your specific requirements. Our team will work with you to understand your needs and provide a detailed breakdown of what's included in your "Both Inclusive" quote, ensuring full transparency. [Contact us](https://oceancargo.co.uk/contact-us) today for a personalised quote.

### Ready to simplify your global logistics?

Get advice and a quote for your next shipment. Contact the Ocean Cargo team to start shipping.

[Freight Quote](https://oceancargo.co.uk/contact-us)

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