Industrial Equipment Importer in Germany: Buying for USA & UAE (2026)
Reading time: 6 minutes
As importer of record you own customs clearance, duty and liability for compliance. Choosing the right incoterm decides who controls the shipment and where risk transfers.
Incoterms that matter
| Incoterm | Risk transfers | Best when |
|---|---|---|
| EXW (ex-works) | At supplier's dock | You want full control + lowest price |
| FOB | On board at EU port | You book ocean freight |
| CIF | At destination port | Supplier handles freight + insurance |
| DDP | Delivered duty paid | Supplier clears customs for you |
Freight forwarding
For first-time importers, CIF or DDP reduce surprises; for repeat buyers, FOB or EXW cut cost once you have a freight forwarder.
Compliance docs
- Commercial invoice + packing list
- EUR.1 / origin declaration
- CE Declaration of Conformity (machinery)
- Bill of lading / air waybill
- HS/HTS classification
About the Author: Arshiya Sabaghi is the founder of German Industry Hub. With an MSc in Sales Management and experience at McKinsey & Company (Industrial AI), Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, and AkkoNobel, he connects international buyers with verified German manufacturers. Based in Amsterdam. Native German, English, Dutch, and Persian.