what is the difference between ex works and fob 
in shipping arrangements the difference between free on board and ex works is based on transferring the liability of goods between the buyer and seller in free on board contracts the seller takes responsibility for bringing goods to a terminal in addition to customs costs and loading the goods onto the ship the buyer meanwhile is liable for shipping costs insurance and customs costs at the final point of arrival in other words once the goods are shipped the buyer assumes liability and ownership of the goods known as fob origin or fob shipping point by contrast in an ex works agreement the seller is only responsible for delivering goods to an agreed upon location 