Glossary

Ex Works. A trading term used in the sale of goods to denote that the price includes only the cost of the product at the warehouse/factory gates before any transport costs are included. (In USA this is normally referred to as FOB. )
In Ex Works, the seller/exporter/manufacturer merely makes the goods available to the buyer at the seller's "named place" of business. This trade term places the greatest responsibility on the buyer and minimum obligations on the seller. The seller does not clear the goods for export and does not load the goods onto a truck or other transport vehicle at the named place of departure.
The parties to the transaction, however, may stipulate that the seller be responsible for the costs and risks of loading the goods onto a transport vehicle. Such a stipulation must be made within the contract of sale.
If the buyer cannot handle export formalities the Ex Works term should not be used. In such a case Free Carrier (FCA) is recommended.
The Ex Works ter is often used when making an initial quotation for the sale of goods. It represents the cost of the goods without any other costs included.
Normal payment terms for Ex Works transactions are generally cash in advance and open account.