DAP versus DDP quotes: clarify import responsibilities

Both DAP and DDP need a named destination. Their treatment of import obligations differs, so a delivered-looking number can leave very different work and cost with the buyer. Confirm the rule and place in the written quote and get local import advice where needed.

List the open charges

Ask who handles import clearance, duties and taxes, destination handling, and unloading. Check whether the seller can actually act as required in the destination country. A quote that says “DDP” but excludes duty or names no destination needs correction before it is ranked.

Set a fair endpoint

Compare all offers at the same receiving point and include buyer-paid charges. Record the estimated basis of any tax or duty calculation separately from the supplier's fixed price. Incoterms® cannot determine product compliance or make a seller legally able to be the importer in every market. Resolve those questions before the purchase order.

Worked delivered-price check

Supplier A offers DAP at the buyer's warehouse; Supplier B offers DDP at that same warehouse for 300 units. Confirm who can clear imports, who pays duties and tax, and whether unloading is included. Enter comparable product and confirmed transport amounts in the comparison tool, keeping estimated import charges outside the tool until verified. Common error: treating “DDP” as a complete number when the quote excludes tax in a footnote. Request a corrected named-place quote before ranking.

Source context: International Chamber of Commerce — Incoterms® 2020 supports this limited point: Incoterms® 2020 allocates specified delivery, cost, and risk responsibilities between buyer and seller. The buyer procedure above is Suppliers Help editorial guidance. Source checked 2026-09-27.