DAP, or Delivered at Place, is an Incoterms rule under which the seller bears cost and risk to deliver goods on the arriving means of transport, ready for unloading at the named destination. The buyer handles unloading and import clearance.
What does the seller handle?
The seller packages the goods, completes export formalities and arranges carriage to the named place. Risk remains with the seller until the goods are placed at the buyer’s disposal ready for unloading.
What does the buyer handle?
The buyer unloads the goods, completes import formalities and pays import duty, taxes and related clearance charges.
Why must the named place be precise?
“Buyer’s warehouse” may be ambiguous across gates, docks and sites. State the exact address and delivery point, along with access and appointment requirements.
DAP versus DDP
Under DAP, the buyer clears the goods for import and pays import charges. Under DDP, the seller assumes those obligations to the extent legally and operationally possible.
How should cost be evaluated?
Add buyer-paid unloading, brokerage, duty and tax to the DAP price. Confirm whether waiting time, special equipment or failed-delivery charges are included.
