Why the edition year matters
Writing the edition year next to the code in the contract, on orders and on invoices removes any doubt about which version both parties agreed to — including after a newer edition is published.
Can you still use the 2010 edition?
Yes. A contract is governed by the edition it refers to, so parties can still agree on Incoterms® 2010 or an earlier edition as long as they name it clearly. If a contract mentions the rules without a year, the edition in force when the contract was made would most likely apply in a dispute, which is a good reason to always write the year.
Main changes from the 2010 edition
- Rule renamed at destination terminals (DAT / DPU): Delivered at Terminal (DAT) became Delivered at Place Unloaded (DPU). The destination no longer has to be a terminal; the seller still unloads there. The rule is now listed after DAP.
- Insurance cover under CIP and CIF: CIF keeps the limited default cover of the 2010 edition (Institute Cargo Clauses (C)), while CIP now requires broader cover in line with Institute Cargo Clauses (A). The parties can agree a different level.
- FCA and bills of lading with an on-board notation: Under FCA the parties can now agree that the buyer has its carrier issue an on-board bill of lading to the seller, which helps when a letter of credit requires one.
- Security-related requirements and their costs: Each rule now sets out security-related obligations for transport and clearance in more detail, and says who bears the related costs.
- Presentation of the rules (explanatory notes, order of articles): Each rule now also lists all of its costs together in one place (articles A9/B9), so users can see who pays for what at a glance.