Shipping internationally can be complicated—but not with the right Incoterm. DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) is one of the most buyer-friendly Incoterms, designed to give importers peace of mind and minimal hassle.

Let’s break down what DPU really means, how it works, and when you should use it—especially with a reliable logistics partner like SailOn Logistics.

What Does DPU Mean?

DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) is an Incoterm where the seller is responsible for delivering and unloading the goods at a named destination—often a warehouse, terminal, or other location in the buyer’s country.

In short:

• Seller pays for transportation, export clearance, and unloading 

• Buyer handles import clearance and post-delivery logistics 

It’s the only Incoterm that requires the seller to unload the goods at the final destination.

Key Responsibilities Under DPU

Here’s how the tasks are divided:

Seller’s Responsibilities:

• Prepare and pack goods for export 

• Handle export customs clearance 

• Arrange international shipping 

• Deliver goods to the agreed destination 

• Unload goods at the place of delivery 

Buyer’s Responsibilities:

• Handle import customs clearance and duties 

• Manage any further transportation or storage after unloading 

Risk transfers from seller to buyer only after the goods are unloaded at the destination.

When Should You Use DPU?

DPU is perfect when:

• The seller has better logistics capability and local presence 

• The buyer wants a stress-free experience, especially for first-time importers 

• You’re shipping to third-party warehouses, logistics hubs, or retail locations 

• Unloading needs to happen in a specific, pre-agreed location 

DPU is especially useful in ecommerce, B2B deliveries, and just-in-time inventory models.

Pros and Cons of DPU

Advantages for Buyers:

• Minimal responsibility until goods are unloaded 

• No need to coordinate with transporters or unloading teams 

• Ideal for buyers without logistics infrastructure 

Challenges for Buyers: 

• Still responsible for import customs, which can be complex in some countries 

• May need to pay extra if unloading location isn’t accessible 

• Not ideal if buyer wants more control over the shipping process 

Common Misconceptions About DPU

“DPU is the same as DAP.”

→ Not quite. While both require the seller to deliver to a named place, only DPU includes unloading the goods.

“Risk transfers once goods arrive.”

→ No. Under DPU, risk transfers only after the goods are unloaded at the destination.

“DPU applies only to road freight.”

→ False. DPU can be used with any mode of transport, including air, sea, and multimodal freight.

How DPU Compares to Other Incoterms  

How SailOn Logistics Makes DPU Shipping Seamless

At SailOn Logistics, we turn the DPU Incoterm into a turnkey delivery solution. Whether you’re receiving goods at a factory, warehouse, or distribution center, we ensure the experience is smooth from start to finish.

Here’s what we handle:

• Export formalities and customs clearance 

• Multi-modal international transport 

• Safe and timely unloading at the destination 

• Transparent communication and real-time shipment tracking 

• Coordination with your warehouse or third-party vendors 

From factory floor to your door (and even beyond), we simplify every step.

Final Thoughts

DPU is a buyer-friendly Incoterm that takes the pressure off you by shifting most responsibilities—including unloading—to the seller. It’s ideal for businesses looking for a plug-and-play logistics setup, especially when shipping from overseas manufacturers.

With SailOn Logistics, you gain more than a freight forwarder—you gain a global shipping partner that ensures your cargo arrives where and how you need it.

Need help planning a DPU shipment or comparing Incoterms? Reach out to SailOn Logistics today for expert guidance on all your international trade needs.