does anyone know what the terms Fob means i've seen this on Purchase order forms

Freight on Board. It's a reference to where merchandise is officially taken possession of for transportation charge purposes.

When I worked in the shipping industry it was Free on Board.

Quote

"A trade term requiring the seller to deliver goods on board a vessel designated by the buyer. The seller fulfills its obligations to deliver when the goods have passed over the ship's rail.

When used in trade terms, the word "free" means the seller has an obligation to deliver goods to a named place for transfer to a carrier

And the other was C I F wasn't it, Fourbrick ?

Indeed, Fred.

(For those who are interested Cost, Insurance, Freight)