EXW Terms

EXW (Ex Works) is one of the most basic terms in Incoterms. It means the seller completes delivery by placing the goods at the buyer's disposal at the seller's premises (such as a factory or warehouse). The seller is not responsible for loading, export customs clearance, or transportation; the buyer bears all costs and risks from the moment the goods are picked up at the seller's premises. Usage scenarios: often used when the buyer has strong logistics capabilities or wants full control over the transportation process, or when the seller is unwilling to handle export procedures. Notes: 1) The seller should ensure the goods are packed suitably for transport but has no obligation to load; 2) The buyer must handle export customs clearance itself; if the buyer cannot do so directly, FCA is recommended instead; 3) The risk transfer point is at the seller's premises, and the buyer must pick up the goods promptly; 4) Unlike terms such as FOB and CIF, under EXW the seller has the minimum responsibility and the buyer has the maximum responsibility. Difference: Under FCA, the seller is responsible for export customs clearance and loading, while under EXW the seller only needs to make the goods available. Therefore, EXW is suitable for domestic trade or scenarios where the buyer is familiar with export procedures, but attention must be paid to export customs declaration issues.