Freight Glossary
EXW (Ex Works) – Meaning & Examples
Incoterm where the seller makes goods available at their premises; buyer handles everything else.
- Abbreviation
- EXW
- Full term
- Ex Works
- Related terms
- EXW, factory price, ex factory
Ex Works (EXW) is the Incoterm with minimum seller obligation. The seller makes goods available at their premises (factory, warehouse). The buyer arranges collection, loading, transport, export/import clearance, and bears all costs and risks from that point. EXW can be problematic when the seller is better positioned to handle export procedures. It's suitable for experienced importers or when using a forwarder with presence at origin.
Ex Works examples
- EXW Shenzhen Factory means the buyer picks up goods from the factory and handles all transport and customs.
How EXW is used in freight operations
EXW appears in quotations, bookings, shipping documents, and tracking updates. Confirm how it applies to your shipment with your carrier, forwarder, or customs representative, because practice can differ by country and contract.
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Frequently asked questions
What is EXW?
Incoterm where the seller makes goods available at their premises; buyer handles everything else.
What does EXW stand for?
EXW stands for Ex Works.
What is an example of EXW?
EXW Shenzhen Factory means the buyer picks up goods from the factory and handles all transport and customs.