Something floating to the surface here from Business Law 101 circa 1965.
FOB. Free on Board. FOB Origin buyer pays. FOB Destination seller pays. As I recall the course, the person paying the freight was responsible for damages and shortages. In effect, if the buyer paid the freight he assumed all responsibility when he did so. The shipping company, be it USPO, FEDEX, USPS or whoever became HIS agent. And problems HIS responsibility.
FOB. Free on Board. FOB Origin buyer pays. FOB Destination seller pays. As I recall the course, the person paying the freight was responsible for damages and shortages. In effect, if the buyer paid the freight he assumed all responsibility when he did so. The shipping company, be it USPO, FEDEX, USPS or whoever became HIS agent. And problems HIS responsibility.