In this episode, we move beyond tariffs to explore the fine print that truly shapes global trade — shipping contracts and Incoterms®. These aren’t just technical details; they’re the backbone of every international deal, deciding who pays for what, who carries the risk, and how companies can protect themselves when new tariffs or disruptions hit.

We break down:

• The key elements of a solid shipping contract.

• How Incoterms® define responsibilities between buyers and sellers, and how choosing the wrong one (like DDP instead of FOB) can lead to unexpected tariff costs.

• Real-world scenarios where mismatched contracts and Incoterms left companies exposed to sudden tariff hikes, insurance gaps, and delivery disputes.

• Practical steps to align your contracts and Incoterms to reduce risk, build flexibility, and protect your margins.

You’ll learn how contracts and Incoterms work together as a risk-management toolkit — and why a well-written clause can save your business thousands when trade policies or tariffs change overnight.

Key takeaway:

“Contracts set the rules, Incoterms set the responsibilities — and tariffs test how well you’ve written both.”

Listen if you’re:

• An importer/exporter managing international shipments

• A freight forwarder or logistics professional

• A business owner navigating global supply chains

• Or anyone who wants to understand how trade agreements translate into real-world risk