What is the main difference between DAP and DPU?

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

Where does risk pass under DAP?

At the named destination, with the goods still on the arriving vehicle.

Where does risk pass under DPU?

Once the goods are unloaded at the named destination.

Can DAP and DPU both be used for container shipments?

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

DAP vs DPU: who pays what

DAP is Delivered at Place. DPU is Delivered at Place Unloaded. Incoterms 2020.

The difference that matters

Unloading at destination:DAPBuyer·DPUSeller

Full cost split

Cost block	DAP	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	At the named destination, with the goods still on the arriving vehicle.	Once the goods are unloaded at the named destination.
Transport mode	Any mode	Any mode

What people get wrong

DAP

If the buyer is slow to clear customs, the goods sit and the demurrage lands on the seller, who still controls the carriage contract.

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 DAP and DPU?: They split 1 cost block differently. unloading at destination falls to the buyer under DAP and the seller under DPU.
Where does risk pass under DAP?: At the named destination, with the goods still on the arriving vehicle.
Where does risk pass under DPU?: Once the goods are unloaded at the named destination.
Can DAP 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 DAP CFR vs DPU CIF vs DAP CIF vs DPU CIP vs DAP CIP vs DPU CPT vs DAP CPT vs DPU

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.