FOB (Free on Board)
The supplier delivers goods onto the vessel at the port of loading and handles export clearance. You arrange and pay for ocean freight, insurance and import. FOB is the most common term for clothing from India.
CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight)
The supplier also pays freight and minimum insurance to your port. Risk still passes to you when goods are loaded, so check the insurance cover.
EXW (Ex Works)
You collect from the factory and handle everything, including export clearance in India, which can be difficult for a foreign buyer. Rarely the best choice for first-time importers.
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)
The supplier delivers to your door with duties paid. Simplest for the buyer, but costs are bundled into the price and the supplier must be able to act as importer in your country.
Which to choose
Most first-time importers do well with FOB plus a good freight forwarder at home: you control freight costs and the forwarder handles customs.