Many buyers are used to hearing “door to door” and assume it means DDP. But some suppliers or couriers quote DAP, where the buyer may still need to handle import clearance, duty, taxes, unloading, or destination charges. This confusion can become expensive when the goods arrive.
Before shipment, buyers should confirm the trade term in writing and ask what is included and excluded from the quote.
DDP and DAP are not the same
DDP normally means the seller is responsible for duty-paid delivery under the agreed terms. DAP means delivery to a place, but the buyer may still be responsible for import clearance and charges. The practical difference matters for cash flow and customs risk.
For DDP questions, read our internal article on DDP duty payments and hidden fees. DDPexpert’s China freight forwarder resource explains how to compare quotes by responsibility.
Questions before booking
- Is the quote DDP, DAP, FOB, EXW, or another term?
- Who pays import duty and tax?
- Who handles customs clearance?
- Who is importer of record?
- Are storage, exam, unloading, and redelivery fees included?
Make the quote match the documents
The invoice, packing list, freight booking, and delivery instructions should all match the agreed term. If the supplier uses different wording in each place, ask for correction before pickup.
For document control, use our internal shipment document pack checklist. DDPexpert’s China import planning guide can help buyers connect sourcing decisions with shipping terms.
Final recommendation
If the supplier says DAP but the buyer expected DDP, pause the shipment and clarify costs. A cheap freight quote is not cheap if duty, clearance, and destination charges are missing.
