GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 13, 2026

Incoterms Special Agreement

Traders frequently negotiate Individual Incoterms Special Agreements with their partners to adapt standard terms to specific business relationships.

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Last updated: 13 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

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

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Definition & Explanation

Traders frequently negotiate Individual Incoterms Special Agreements with their partners to adapt standard terms to specific business relationships. Such an agreement modifies selected elements of a standard Incoterm – for instance, having the seller bear insurance costs instead of the buyer (CIF instead of CIP), or altering the cost split between parties. Special agreements must be documented in writing and confirmed by both parties to prevent misunderstandings. They are permissible as long as they are unambiguously recorded and do not entirely dismantle the underlying logic of risk allocation.

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Incoterms Special Agreement

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Related Terms

Freight Forwarding Order Confirmation

Trade Agreement Compliance

pick-up agreement

import tax relief

delivery deadline agreement

Incoterms framework agreement

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