Essential Trade English Phrases for the 2025 Exam – Quick Review List

  Intro Mastering technical English is key to scoring well in the Trade English section. Here are 15 phrases you must know cold. Top 15 Phrases Phrase Meaning FOB (Free on Board) Buyer bears cost once goods are on ship LC (Letter of Credit) Bank-guaranteed payment instrument Arbitration Clause Legal path for dispute resolution Non-tariff Barrier Restriction not involving duties Force Majeure Legal excuse due to unforeseeable events CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) Seller pays transport and insurance Demurrage Fee for late cargo removal Consignee Receiver of goods Proforma Invoice Preliminary bill of sale Incoterms 2020 Global trade rules B/L (Bill of Lading) Shipping document and title Draft Payment order Inspection Certificate Proof of quality check UCP 600 Standard LC rules from ICC Ex Works Buyer picks up goods from seller’s premises Study Tip Use flashcards or Quizlet and test yourself with sample question...

2025 Customs Exam Mock Test Guide – Simulate the Real Exam Day

Intro

Practice makes perfect—but only if it’s realistic. Here’s how to simulate the real exam to reduce stress and improve accuracy.

Simulation Checklist

  • Time: Block 200 minutes in the morning (actual test time)
  • Environment: Quiet room, no phone, printed questions
  • Materials: Non-programmable calculator, pencils, clock

Execution Tips

  • Use full-length past exams (2022–2024)
  • Stick to the official order: Customs Law → Trade English → Econ/Accounting
  • Time per section:
    • Law: 60 mins
    • English: 60 mins
    • Econ/Acct: 80 mins

Review Routine

  • Mark what you guessed
  • Log topics you ran out of time on
  • Check pacing: did you have time for review?