What is the main difference between CPT and DPU?

They split 1 cost block differently. unloading at destination falls to the buyer under CPT and the seller under DPU.

Where does risk pass under CPT?

When the goods are handed to the first carrier — not at the destination the seller is paying to reach.

Where does risk pass under DPU?

Once the goods are unloaded at the named destination.

Can CPT and DPU both be used for container shipments?

Yes. Both work for any mode of transport, including containers, air and road.

CPT vs DPU: who pays what

CPT is Carriage Paid To. DPU is Delivered at Place Unloaded. Incoterms 2020.

The difference that matters

Unloading at destination:CPTBuyer·DPUSeller

Full cost split

Cost block	CPT	DPU
Export clearance	Seller	Seller
Carriage to port / terminal	Seller	Seller
Loading onto main carriage	Seller	Seller
Main carriage (freight)	Seller	Seller
Insurance	Neither obliged	Neither obliged
Unloading at destination	Buyer	Seller
Import clearance	Buyer	Buyer
Duties and import taxes	Buyer	Buyer
Risk passes	When the goods are handed to the first carrier — not at the destination the seller is paying to reach.	Once the goods are unloaded at the named destination.
Transport mode	Any mode	Any mode

What people get wrong

CPT

With two carriers, risk passes at the first one. A seller shipping by truck then sea has already transferred risk at the truck.

DPU

The seller must be able to unload at a place they do not control. Agree who supplies the forklift or crane before signing.

Questions

What is the main difference between CPT and DPU?: They split 1 cost block differently. unloading at destination falls to the buyer under CPT and the seller under DPU.
Where does risk pass under CPT?: When the goods are handed to the first carrier — not at the destination the seller is paying to reach.
Where does risk pass under DPU?: Once the goods are unloaded at the named destination.
Can CPT and DPU both be used for container shipments?: Yes. Both work for any mode of transport, including containers, air and road.

Whichever term you agree, the paperwork has to say so

The Incoterm and named place belong on the commercial invoice, the packing list and the shipper's instructions — spelled the same way on each. ovrseas generates the set from one entry so they cannot disagree with each other.

Commercial invoice template

Compare other pairs

CFR vs CPT CFR vs DPU CIF vs CPT CIF vs DPU CIP vs CPT CIP vs DPU CPT vs DAP CPT vs DDP

Incoterms® is a registered trademark of the International Chamber of Commerce. This page is an independent summary of how costs and risk are allocated and is not affiliated with or endorsed by ICC. For contract drafting, use the official Incoterms® 2020 rules published by ICC.