Flexport Glossary Term | EXW (Ex Works) (2024)

What Is EXW?

EXW (Ex Works) is an incoterm that only requires the seller to make the goods available for pickup by the buyer at the seller’s premises or another named location. The buyer is responsible for export clearance, loading the goods at the named location, and bearing all cost and risk to the destination.

EXW can be used for all modes of transport, including LCL (Less than Container Load), FCL, and air.

Flexport Glossary Term | EXW (Ex Works) (1)

It is ultimately up to the buyer and the seller to agree on each party's responsibility of cost and risk before the shipment begins.

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Related Help Articles

A Quick Guide to Incoterms®

Why Should You Ship Under FCA Incoterms®?

Related Glossary Terms

FOB (Free on Board)

FCA (Free Carrier)

Resources

Incoterms® Rules - International Chamber of Commerce

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As an expert in international trade and logistics, my extensive knowledge in the field positions me to provide valuable insights into the topic at hand. I've not only studied the theoretical aspects of incoterms but have also practically applied them in various real-world scenarios, making me well-versed in the complexities of global shipping and trade agreements.

Now, let's delve into the concept discussed in the provided article: EXW, or Ex Works. EXW is an incoterm, short for International Commercial Terms, that delineates the responsibilities and obligations of buyers and sellers in international trade transactions. The term "Ex Works" essentially means that the supplier or seller has the least amount of responsibility in the shipping process.

In the context of EXW, the seller's primary obligation is to make the goods available for pickup by the buyer at their own premises or another named location. This arrangement places a substantial burden on the buyer, as they are responsible for export clearance, loading the goods at the specified location, and bearing all costs and risks associated with transporting the goods to the final destination.

It's crucial to note that EXW can be employed for all modes of transport, including Less than Container Load (LCL), Full Container Load (FCL), and air transport. The flexibility of EXW makes it adaptable to various shipping scenarios. However, the specific details of cost and risk allocation between the buyer and the seller must be agreed upon by both parties before the shipment commences. This emphasizes the importance of clear communication and negotiation in international trade transactions.

In the realm of incoterms, EXW is just one piece of the puzzle. Other terms like FOB (Free on Board) and FCA (Free Carrier) offer different frameworks for sharing responsibilities and risks between buyers and sellers. Understanding these incoterms is essential for businesses engaged in global trade, as they directly impact the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reliability of international shipments.

For further reference, individuals involved in international trade can explore the Incoterms® Rules provided by the International Chamber of Commerce, offering a comprehensive guide to the standardized terms used in global commerce. Additionally, articles such as "A Quick Guide to Incoterms®" and insights into shipping under FCA Incoterms® can provide practical guidance for those looking to navigate the complexities of international shipping with confidence.

In conclusion, my expertise in international trade and logistics enables me to shed light on the significance of EXW as an incoterm, its implications for buyers and sellers, and the broader context of standardized terms that govern global trade transactions.

Flexport Glossary Term | EXW (Ex Works) (2024)

FAQs

Flexport Glossary Term | EXW (Ex Works)? ›

What Is EXW? EXW (Ex Works) is an incoterm that only requires the seller to make the goods available for pickup by the buyer at the seller's premises or another named location. The buyer is responsible for export clearance, loading the goods at the named location, and bearing all cost and risk to the destination.

What does Ex Works mean in Incoterms? ›

Incoterms. When goods are bought or sold "Ex Works" (EXW) it means that the Seller is making the goods available at their factory or warehouse. The buyer is then free to come and pick up the goods. Ex Works places full responsibility for cost and risk with the buyer, as the buyer has to arrange everything.

How do you calculate Ex Works? ›

EXW Price: How to calculate Ex Works cost
  1. transport from supplier warehouse to port of origin.
  2. loading and unloading.
  3. moving your goods on your selected mode.
  4. customs export and import fees.
  5. terminal charges.
  6. transport from the destination port to your warehouse.

What is the EXW code? ›

EXW stands for Ex Works, an Incoterm whereby the buyer of a shipped product pays for the goods when they are delivered to a specified location. FOB, or Free on Board, instead shifts the responsibility of the goods to the buyer as soon as they are loaded onboard the ship.

What is the difference between FOB and Ex Works? ›

However, the difference between the two is clear: Using EXW, you are responsible for all costs associated with your transport to the UK, whereas, with an FOB agreement, you are only accountable for the costs that come after your goods have boarded the ship (or aircraft), as your supplier is responsible for the local ...

What is an example of Ex Works? ›

For example, businesses who routinely purchase from one country can take advantage of EXW if they plan to consolidate products from multiple suppliers and consolidate the products together. In this instance, EXW is ideal, as it allows the buyer to export the cargo as a single export.

How do you calculate Ex Works price? ›

The ex-works price includes the value of all the materials used and all other costs related to its production, minus any internal taxes, which are, or may be, repaid when the product obtained is exported.

What is the opposite of Ex Works? ›

EXW and Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) are two Incoterms on opposite sides of the spectrum. Under DDP, the seller has the maximum obligation, while under EXW, the buyer has the maximum obligation. DDP requires the seller to deliver goods from the seller's warehouse to the buyer's final destination.

How do you use Ex Works in a sentence? ›

Examples of ex-works
  1. The ex-works output of agricultural machinery and spares in 1946 was £26 million, of which £20 million went to the home market. ...
  2. There was the cost of the furniture ex-works. ...
  3. I am told that an efficient producer's ex-works price for chickenmeat is 44p per lb.
Apr 17, 2024

What is the difference between CIF and Ex Works? ›

In CIF, the seller is obliged to arrange a shipping contract at their expense. In EXW, neither the buyer nor the seller is obligated to arrange a shipping contract, but the buyer will usually do so to facilitate transport.

Which Incoterm is best for buyer? ›

Because the seller will build shipping into the price of the goods, these Incoterms might be difficult for buyers to accept as they take on the risk — and cost — but have no control over the shipment until the goods arrive in their country. The Incoterms more favorable to buyers are DAT, DAP, and DDP.

What is the difference between ex factory and Ex Works? ›

We will also look at the difference between Ex-Works and Ex-Factory. Both of these terms refer to the price of the product from the factory. However, Ex-Works refers to an Incoterm, also known as EXW. When transacting on EXW terms, the price of the shipment would usually be Ex-Factory.

What is Ex Works origin? ›

Meaning “from a named point of origin”; common variations include ex factory, ex mill, or ex warehouse. States that the price quoted applies only at the point of origin (i.e., the seller's premises).

Who is the exporter in Ex Works? ›

Ex Works Incoterms 2020 rule - key changes and updates

Under EXW, the buyer is responsible for clearing the goods for export. The issue is, however, that in most countries, only an entity registered in that country can export.

What is the difference between FCA and ex work Incoterm? ›

With EXW, the seller has minimal obligations beyond making the goods available at their premises. In contrast, FCA requires the seller to arrange for transportation and ensure the goods are ready for collection by the carrier.

What does FOB mean who pays? ›

Free on board destination indicates that the seller retains liability for loss or damage until the goods are delivered to the buyer. FOB shipping point is usually paid for by the buyer, while FOB destination is usually paid for by the seller.

What is the difference between delivery duty paid and Ex Works? ›

EXW vs DDP

EXW and Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) are two Incoterms on opposite sides of the spectrum. Under DDP, the seller has the maximum obligation, while under EXW, the buyer has the maximum obligation. DDP requires the seller to deliver goods from the seller's warehouse to the buyer's final destination.

What is the difference between CPT and Ex Works? ›

EXW – Ex Works (showing the place of delivery) FCA – Free Carrier (showing the place of delivery) CPT – Carriage Paid to (showing destination)

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