For many importers, freight terms are often dictated by the seller. But when buyers take the lead — choosing Ex Works Incoterms — they gain full control over the shipping process from origin to destination.
This level of control comes with added responsibility. That’s why Dimerco recommends Ex Works terms for buyers who have strong logistics capabilities and a trusted global partner to help manage the details.
What Are Ex Works Incoterms?
Under Ex Works Incoterms, the seller makes goods available at their premises or another agreed location. From there, the buyer takes over — handling transportation, customs clearance, insurance, and delivery. For sellers, Ex Works Incoterms reduce liability and avoid risk. For buyers, it brings transparency to shipping costs and unlocks flexibility in how goods move across borders.
The Buyer’s Advantage with Ex Works Incoterms
Importers using Ex Works Incoterms can:
- See exactly what they’re paying for in freight, handling, and insurance.
- Select carriers and routes that match their timing and service needs.
- Avoid markups or hidden costs added by the seller’s forwarder.
You’re not forced into someone else’s schedule or freight terms. You can make decisions that fit your business, not the exporter’s preferences.
The Risk of Getting It Wrong
With control comes accountability. If the buyer doesn’t understand customs regulations in the seller’s country, shipments can be delayed or even blocked. Disputes also arise around loading responsibilities. Technically, sellers under Ex Works are not required to load goods onto trucks, but many do. Without a clear agreement, this creates confusion and potential liability.
How to Avoid Pitfalls with Ex Works Incoterms
Start by choosing a logistics provider that knows the seller’s local environment. A global forwarder like Dimerco has on-the-ground teams that speak the language, understand customs procedures, and can step in when things don’t go as planned.
To make Ex Works work in your favor:
- Review export regulations in the seller’s country before booking.
- Define in writing who handles truck loading and export documents.
- Make sure your forwarder is equipped to manage the full journey, from factory pickup to final delivery.
Case Study: High-Value Goods, High Expectations
A Chinese manufacturer needed to buy custom machine tools from Germany, each worth more than 500,000 Euros. The German supplier insisted on Ex Works terms but refused to handle any shipping risk. Concerned about safe transport and customs clearance, the buyer turned to Dimerco.
Within a day, Dimerco mapped a transport route and arranged an all-risk insurance policy. Their German team helped the seller prepare proper export paperwork. Meanwhile, the Chinese team pre-qualified the import documents.
The shipment moved door-to-door in just 48 hours. No issues. No surprises. Impressed by the speed and clarity of costs, the buyer moved all future orders to Ex Works with Dimerco.
When Ex Works Incoterms Work — And When They Don’t
Ex Works Incoterms work best for companies that already have, or want to build, a high degree of logistics control. It’s not ideal for buyers without the resources to manage overseas pickup, export clearance, or in-transit risk.
Full support from both the buyer and their logistics partner is essential. Without it, Ex Works can quickly lead to confusion, disputes, or delays.
What to Look for in a Logistics Partner for Ex Works
If you’re ready to shift to Ex Works Incoterms, choose a logistics provider that can handle more than just freight booking. Look for:
- Regional strength where your suppliers operate.
- Transparent pricing that covers freight, insurance, and duties.
- A digital platform that lets you track costs and shipment status in real time.
- A local team that can coordinate across languages, time zones, and customs offices.
With operations across Asia and key markets in Europe and North America, Dimerco can manage the Ex Works process from end to end — freeing you to focus on your core business. Start a discussion today.
