EXW Shipping Guide
What ex-works really asks of the buyer, from factory pickup to export clearance.
Read the guideSHIPPING GUIDES

FEATURED GUIDE
Shipping costs depend on the packed cargo, transport mode, route, ready date and requested service scope. Build a comparable quotation by identifying origin handling, main transport and destination tasks.
EXPLORE THE CATEGORY
What ex-works really asks of the buyer, from factory pickup to export clearance.
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From product shortlist to supplier orders: the sourcing path that ends in a shippable plan.
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Check who you are really buying from before the deposit leaves your account.
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How the big wholesale markets work, and how to buy from them without overpaying.
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Prepare the fair like a buying trip: shortlist, meetings, samples and a follow-up plan.
Read the guideYOUR NEXT STEP

01 / SUPPORT
Compare transport services around your actual cargo and delivery priorities.
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02 / SUPPORT
Explore FCL and LCL service options once the quotation scope is clearer.
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03 / SUPPORT
Use your destination country to focus local handling and receiving questions.
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SHIPPING QUESTIONS
Shipment-specific advice starts with shipment-specific details.
Storage can be included in the agreed warehouse scope, subject to available space and cargo acceptance. Provide the expected waiting period and confirm storage and handling charges in advance. If another supplier is delayed, review whether to keep waiting or release part of the cargo.
Send the product description, supplier locations, expected arrival dates and estimated storage period. Include carton counts, packed weights and dimensions, plus any requested inspection or packing work. Confirm cargo acceptance, the receiving address and charges before instructing suppliers to deliver.
Treat the supplier’s code as a starting point for review. Provide the product’s materials, function, model and intended use to the appointed broker. The Harmonized System is shared at six digits, but destination tariffs may add further digits and requirements. Confirm the code applicable to the importing country before filing. If classification remains uncertain, ask the broker or customs authority about an advance ruling where available.
Coverage depends on the insurer’s acceptance and the policy wording. Review the insured goods, route, value, period of transit, deductible and exclusions before agreeing to cover. Delay-related losses or unsuitable packing may be excluded; ask the insurer or insurance intermediary to explain the terms offered. A freight booking is not evidence that insurance is in force. Keep the policy confirmation, packing records and condition photographs, and follow the stated notification and claims procedure.
Customs authorities determine release and may request further documents or examine a shipment. Preparation can address missing or inconsistent information, but it cannot guarantee approval or a fixed clearance time. Before dispatch, confirm the importer, filing party and contact responsible for responding to queries. Ask how inspection, handling, storage and delivery changes will be approved if a hold occurs.
Not automatically. Under Incoterms® 2020 DDP and DAP, delivery takes place with the goods on the arriving vehicle, ready for unloading. The buyer normally handles unloading. A separate transport quotation may include additional handling only when this is expressly agreed. Before booking, confirm whether the receiving site has a loading dock, forklift and staff available. Tell VG Shipping about tail-lift requirements, restricted vehicle access, appointment windows or inside-delivery needs. Ask for the accepted handling scope and any related charges to be stated in the quotation.
LET’S PLAN YOUR NEXT SHIPMENT
Tell us what you are moving, where it needs to go and when. We will help identify the service scope and shipping options to discuss.
Not sure which shipping mode to choose?
Select “Help me choose” and start with your cargo details.