# Port of discharge

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> The port of discharge is the harbour named in the bill of lading or other sea freight contract documents where cargo is unloaded from the vessel, marking the end of the ocean leg.

The port of discharge is the harbour named in the bill of lading or other sea freight contract documents where cargo is unloaded from the vessel, marking the end of the ocean leg. It determines freight rate calculation, insurance coverage, and the initiation of customs clearance at destination. Under certain Incoterms – notably CFR (Cost and Freight) and CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) – risk transfers from seller to buyer at the port of discharge. It must not be confused with transhipment ports, where cargo is merely transferred between vessels, or with the final inland delivery point, recorded separately as the place of delivery. If the vessel diverts to an alternative port for operational reasons, additional costs and delays typically arise and must be addressed in the contract of carriage.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_discharge](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_discharge)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Port of discharge |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 130 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_discharge |

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