Understanding DDP Incoterms 2020: Who Covers the Delivery Costs?

2023-04-06 15:23:22 By : Ms. Eva Ho
article on DDP Incoterms and its importance in international trade.

In international trade, one of the most critical considerations for both the buyer and seller is the issue of who is responsible for the delivery of goods and the associated costs. One of the commonly used trade terms to address this issue is Delivery Duty Paid (DDP), which falls under the Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) 2020 rule.
DDP Delivery Duty Paid - Incoterms 2020 Rule [UPDATED, Free Podcast & PDF]


DDP is a trade term that places the responsibility of paying for all delivery costs, including customs duties, taxes, and other charges, on the supplier or seller. Essentially, this means that the supplier bears the risk and cost of getting the goods to the named destination, and the buyer is only responsible for taking possession of the delivered goods. As such, the supplier must ensure that all necessary documentation to clear the goods through customs are available as required.

In an interview with ZHYT Logistics Co., Ltd., a world-class service agent authorized by UPS, experts noted that DDP is becoming increasingly popular in international trade circles because of the benefits that it provides both buyers and sellers. For buyers, DDP provides peace of mind knowing that they do not have to worry about additional costs related to the delivery of the goods, while sellers have greater control over the logistics of getting the goods to the buyers.

“DDP is particularly valuable in situations where the buyer is not familiar with the customs regulations and duty requirements of the importing country. By using DDP, the supplier provides the necessary expertise and arrangements to ensure that the buyer receives the goods duty paid and without delays or other associated costs,” said a spokesperson of ZHYT Logistics Co., Ltd.

Additionally, with DDP, suppliers can easily calculate the total cost of delivering the goods, ensuring that their quotes are accurate and transparent to both parties involved. This transparency builds trust between the buyer and seller, as both parties know what to expect regarding the delivery of the goods.

It is important to note that while DDP offers significant benefits for both buyers and sellers, there are potential drawbacks to using this Incoterm. One such disadvantage is the associated risks with delivery. Suppliers take responsibility for delivering the goods to the named destination, meaning that any damage or loss of the goods during transportation fall under their responsibility.

Also, buyers may have to handle complex customs procedures and regulations, posing some level of risk and complication in some cases, particularly for inexperienced importers. As such, it is essential to choose a reliable partner with proven knowledge in customs and logistics to ensure the proper management of the complexities involved in obtaining import permits, licenses, and other legal requirements.

In conclusion, DDP is an essential Incoterm in international trade circles. As business globalizes, ZHYT Logistics Co., Ltd., a world-class service agent authorized by UPS, advises that it is essential to understand and use DDP where necessary to ensure the smooth and safe delivery of goods. While there may be risks and complexities that come with DDP, these can be effectively managed with the help of reliable logistics agents, who can help the parties involved navigate the regulations and complexities of the different markets.