In global trade, precision and clarity can save businesses thousands. That’s where Incoterms like DAP (Delivered at Place) come in—outlining who handles what during an international shipment.

If you’re a buyer who wants goods delivered to your doorstep—but can handle import formalities—DAP may be your ideal shipping arrangement.

Let’s dive into what DAP means, when to use it, and how SailOn Logistics makes it effortless.

What Does DAP Mean?

DAP (Delivered at Place) is an Incoterm that requires the seller to handle everything up to delivery at the buyer’s named location, which could be a warehouse, business premises, or port.

However, the buyer is responsible for import customs clearance and duties.

In simple terms:

• Seller: Responsible for export clearance, shipping, and delivery 

• Buyer: Responsible for import clearance and taxes 

Unlike DPU, unloading is the buyer’s responsibility under DAP.

Key Responsibilities Under DAP

Here’s how roles are split:

Seller’s Responsibilities:  

• Pack and prepare goods for shipment 

• Handle export customs clearance 

• Arrange international shipping 

• Deliver goods to the final agreed location (without unloading) 

Buyer’s Responsibilities: 

• Manage import customs clearance and pay duties 

• Unload goods at the delivery point 

• Handle any final setup or warehousing 

Risk transfers from seller to buyer once the goods are made available for unloading at the named location.

When Should You Use DAP?

DAP is ideal when:

• You want delivery to a specific address without worrying about logistics or transportation 

• You have the resources to manage customs and unloading 

• You’re shipping to a third-party warehouse or factory 

• You’re new to exporting and want to simplify delivery for your overseas customers 

DAP gives the buyer less responsibility than EXW or FCA but still more control than DDP, making it a balanced choice for many businesses.

Pros and Cons of DAP

Advantages for Buyers:

• No need to coordinate international logistics 

• Delivery directly to your door or warehouse 

• Flexible for any mode of transport 

Challenges for Buyers: 

• Must handle customs clearance and pay duties 

• Unloading is your responsibility 

• Potential delays if you’re not ready to receive the goods 

Common Misconceptions About DAP

“DAP includes unloading.”

→ False. Unloading is not the seller’s duty under DAP. If you want unloading included, consider using DPU.

“DAP covers customs duties.”

→ No. The buyer is responsible for all import-related formalities and taxes under DAP.

“DAP is only for road or sea freight.”

→ Incorrect. DAP can be used with any mode of transport, including air and multimodal shipments.

How DAP Compares to Other Incoterms

How SailOn Logistics Simplifies DAP Shipments

At SailOn Logistics, we make DAP shipments stress-free. Whether you’re shipping from Asia to Europe or moving goods across continents, we handle it all—until the point of delivery.

Here’s what we offer:

• Export documentation and compliance 

• End-to-end international transportation 

• Real-time tracking and proactive communication 

• Coordination with your teams for timely unloading 

• Expert consulting on customs procedures and local regulations 

When you choose SailOn, you get more than logistics—you get a delivery partner.

Final Thoughts

The DAP Incoterm is a practical choice for buyers who want their goods delivered but can handle customs clearance and unloading. It offers a smart balance between convenience and control.

With SailOn Logistics, you don’t have to worry about the complexity of international freight. We manage everything up to your door—so you can focus on your business.

Need help with DAP or choosing the right Incoterm for your shipment? Talk to our experts at SailOn Logistics today and ship smarter, not harder.