Trade & Incoterms
EXW (Ex Works)
An Incoterm placing minimum obligation on the seller — goods are made available at the seller premises. The buyer bears all costs and risks from collection, including export clearance unless otherwise agreed.
In depth
EXW puts almost all transport and customs risk on the buyer. The seller only makes goods available at their premises (factory, warehouse, or works). Export clearance is technically the buyer’s responsibility unless parties agree the seller will assist: many countries require the exporter of record to be local.
Key points
- Lowest seller obligation: often attracts the lowest unit price
- Buyer may struggle with export formalities in the seller’s country
- Loading at seller premises should be explicitly agreed
- Common for domestic-style sales extended across a border