GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 13, 2026

Incoterms duty of care

Every Incoterms clause specifies who is responsible for goods, costs, and risk from a particular point onwards.

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Last updated: 13 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://iccwbo.org/resources-for-business/incoterms/

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Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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Definition & Explanation

Every Incoterms clause specifies who is responsible for goods, costs, and risk from a particular point onwards. Beyond this allocation, both parties commit to exercising due care in fulfilling their respective duties: the seller must package, label, and load the goods correctly; the buyer or logistics provider must transport and receive them properly. This implicit duty of care also covers documentation (certificates of origin, customs declarations), insurance, and the prevention of damage or delays. If this care is breached, the injured party can claim damages—regardless of who bore the risk under the Incoterms clause.

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⚡ Current 2026

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Passar replaces E-dec and NCTS. Passar 1.0 (export) is live, Passar 2.0 (import) starts from Q2 2026. Roadmap, ePortal registration, deadlines and FAQ — all on one page.

Passar 1.0Passar 2.0 → Q2 2026Passar 3.0 → Q2 2027

Passar Hub →Declar Info

⚖️ ICC Incoterms 2020

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Incoterms duty of care

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Related Terms

Packaging obligation (Incoterms)

duty of care

Duty of care in warehousing

Incoterms logistics service provider

Incoterms financing

Incoterms Trade Finance

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Incoterms 2020 Simulator: Who bears costs & risk?

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

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