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Home/Glossary/Physical delivery

Futures · Pro

Physical delivery

By Omer Rapaport · Content updated 11 September 2026

What does Physical delivery mean?

Physical delivery settles a futures obligation through delivery of the specified underlying asset or deliverable instrument rather than only a cash difference. Procedures depend on the contract.

Example

A deliverable commodity contract enters its delivery process when eligible positions remain open.

Illustrative example; not a provider’s quoted offer.

Why it matters for prop traders

Many retail trading services require positions to close earlier. An online trading interface does not change the underlying settlement method.

Sources and further reading

The following primary sources support the terminology. Provider rules describe their own products and may change.

  • CME Group - Physical delivery and cash settlement

Related terms

  • First notice day
  • Backwardation
  • Calendar spread
← All 181 terms

Frequently asked questions

Does online trading change a contract's delivery obligations?

Many retail trading services require positions to close earlier. An online trading interface does not change the underlying settlement method.

Sources: CME Group - Physical delivery and cash settlement

What is a practical example of Physical delivery?

Illustrative example: A deliverable commodity contract enters its delivery process when eligible positions remain open.

Sources: CME Group - Physical delivery and cash settlement

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