GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 18, 2026

retention of title / delivery with reservation of title

Retention of title is a contractual clause that ties the transfer of ownership in goods to full payment of the purchase price.

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Last updated: 18 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eigentumsvorbehalt

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Logistics Concept

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Definition & Explanation

Retention of title is a contractual clause that ties the transfer of ownership in goods to full payment of the purchase price. Until payment is complete, the seller remains the legal owner and may demand return of the goods in the event of default. In international trade and freight forwarding this has direct operational implications: a freight forwarder may withhold goods until outstanding freight charges or fees are settled, and a seller may instruct that a shipment be stopped or redirected. The buyer typically holds and may use the goods in the meantime, but legal title passes only on final payment—distinguishing retention of title from a pledge, where the creditor physically holds the asset as security.

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retention of title / delivery with reservation of title

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