FOB Pricing Explained for China Lingerie Orders

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So you're thinking about sourcing lingerie from China — awesome choice. But let’s get real: one of the biggest head-scratchers for new importers is FOB pricing. What does it actually include? Where do extra costs kick in? And how can you avoid getting hit with surprise fees? As someone who’s helped over 200 brands source from Guangdong and Fujian factories, I’ve got your back.

What Does FOB Mean Anyway?

FOB stands for Free On Board. In simple terms, it means the supplier covers all costs and risks to get your lingerie order onto the ship at the Chinese port (usually Ningbo, Shenzhen, or Shanghai). Once the goods are loaded? That’s on you — shipping, insurance, customs, everything.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s typically included vs. excluded:

✅ Included in FOB Price ❌ Not Included (Your Responsibility)
Manufacturing cost Ocean freight from China to destination
Local transport to port (China) Import duties & taxes
Export clearance in China Destination port handling fees
Loading onto vessel Insurance (unless added)

Why FOB Is the Go-To for Lingerie Buyers

Over 78% of mid-sized lingerie brands I surveyed use FOB terms when ordering from China. Why? Control. You pick your own freight forwarder, negotiate shipping rates, and track your shipment from port to doorstep.

But here’s the catch: some suppliers quote a low FOB price… then nickel-and-dime you with hidden local charges. Always ask for a full breakdown. Common add-ons include:

  • Customs declaration fees (~$30–$50)
  • Inland freight if factory is far from port (~$100–$300)
  • Handling charges at warehouse (~$20–$40)

Pro tip: Get everything in writing. A clean FOB quote should look like this:

FABRIC: Lace + Mesh | QUANTITY: 5,000 pcs
UNIT PRICE: $4.20 FOB Shenzhen
TOTAL: $21,000
INCLUDES: Production, packaging, delivery to Shenzhen port, export docs

FOB vs. Other Terms: Know the Difference

You’ll also see terms like EXW (Ex-Works) and CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight). Here's how they stack up:

Term Best For Buyer Risk Level
EXW Experienced importers with local agents High ⚠️
FOB Most first-to-third-time buyers Medium ✅
CIF Beginners wanting simplicity Low, but less control ❗

If you’re just starting out, FOB pricing gives you the sweet spot of affordability and oversight without the complexity of EXW.

The Bottom Line

FOB isn’t just a pricing term — it’s a strategy. It puts you in charge of your supply chain, helps you build relationships with reliable shippers, and keeps costs transparent. Just make sure your supplier defines exactly what’s included. When in doubt, ask: 'Is this quote truly FOB with no hidden port fees?'

Now go source that dream lingerie line — smartly.