Incoterms 2020
EXW
Ex Works
Any transport modeThe seller only makes the goods available, packaged, at their own premises. The buyer bears all cost and risk from that point — including loading, export clearance, and the entire journey.
Written as: EXW [seller’s premises]
EXW
Ex Works
Buyer does everything
Show
SellerBuyer
Risk
Hover a stage to see who is responsible.
SellerBuyerRisk
| Stage | Who pays | Who's at risk |
|---|---|---|
| Export packaging | Seller | Seller |
| Loading at origin | Buyer | Buyer |
| Inland to origin port | Buyer | Buyer |
| Export customs | Buyer | Buyer |
| Origin terminal charges | Buyer | Buyer |
| Loading on main carrier | Buyer | Buyer |
| Main carriage (freight) | Buyer | Buyer |
| Destination terminal charges | Buyer | Buyer |
| Import customs & duty | Buyer | Buyer |
| Inland to destination | Buyer | Buyer |
| Unloading at destination | Buyer | Buyer |
Seller's responsibilities
- Package and mark the goods for export
- Make goods available at the agreed point
Buyer's responsibilities
- Load, transport, and clear export & import
- Bear all risk from the seller’s premises
Risk transfer
Under EXW, the risk of loss or damage passes from the seller to the buyer at Loading at origin.
Insurance
Not required (buyer may arrange)
When to use it
Best for domestic-style sales or experienced buyers who control the whole chain. Rarely ideal for cross-border trade.
Watch out
The buyer is responsible for export clearance in the seller’s country — often impractical. FCA is usually the better choice.
Frequently asked
- Who clears the goods for export under EXW?
- The buyer. This is the main drawback of EXW, since a foreign buyer often cannot complete export formalities in the seller’s country.