DPU Incoterms – Quick guide for businesses

DPU Incoterms is one of several internationally recognized delivery terms that are good for business owners to know about. On this page you will learn what DPU means, what it requires of sellers and buyers respectively, and how PostNord can assist you with deliveries that include a DPU shipping clause.

What does DPU Incoterms mean?

DPU stands for ”Delivered at Place Unloaded”. In practice, it means that goods sent with DPU as a delivery term clause are under the responsibility of the seller until the moment they have been delivered to the buyer and unloaded at a given location.

DPU is one of many delivery clauses in the international set of clauses called Incoterms. Incoterms can be described as a collection of standardized guidelines and agreement terms for the transportation of goods and products between companies, domestically and internationally. Incoterms are created by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and frequently revised to be adapted to current trade conditions.

A new Incoterms clause in 2020

DPU is a new delivery term only available in the latest and most current version of Incoterms. When DPU was added to the guidelines, the DAT clause (Delivered at Terminal) was removed, as it could easily be confused with the similar term known as DAP – Delivered at Place.

Because different terms are occasionally added and replaced, it’s important to use the most up-to-date version of Incoterms. It’s also important that sellers and buyers are referring to the same shipping terms, to avoid any misunderstandings and to ensure smooth and efficient deliveries.

The meaning of DPU for sellers and buyers respectively

Like all other Incoterms, DPU regulates the responsibility of seller and buyer during a shipment of goods. DPU, however, is the only term that holds the seller responsible for unloading the goods. In summary, DPU means that the sender – meaning the selling company – carries all risks and costs of the shipment during transport, delivery and unloading at the agreed location. The responsibility of the goods is handed over to the buyer only once the unloading has finished.

Something important for the seller to consider:

  • Ensure that you or your logistics supplier is able to unload the goods in a safe manner, at the agreed-upon place. If not, a term like DAP might be a better choice. Both for you and for the buyer.

Frictionless DPU deliveries with PostNord

PostNord can help with safe, fast and cost effective deliveries for companies and private individuals, both in and outside of Sweden. As a seller you can hire us to send packages with DPU and DDP Incoterms, DAP Incoterms or any other terms. What shipping terms you want to apply is entirely up to you and your customer.

With us as your logistics partner, you can rest assured that your delivery is loaded, transported and unloaded in a safe manner. We have the required technology, equipment and capacity to manage both small and large shipments.

PostNord will always help you with the best deliveries – regionally, nationally and globally.

Learn more

If you want to expand your knowledge about logistics, don’t miss our Logistics page which contains more articles and great advice.

Frequently asked questions about DPU

When does DPU apply as a delivery term?

DPU, like any other delivery term, applies when seller and buyer agrees on it in a delivery agreement.

Who pays for shipping when delivering with DPU?

The seller is responsible for all costs related to the shipping and unloading of goods.

Who can use DPU as a delivery term?

DPU can be used by any company sending packages or other goods to destinations in and outside of their own country.