Procurement Glossary
Incoterms DPU: Definition, obligations and practical application in Procurement
November 19, 2025
Incoterms DPU (Delivered at Place Unloaded) regulates the delivery of goods to an agreed destination, whereby the seller is responsible for unloading. This delivery clause offers buyers clear cost allocation and risk delimitation in international procurement processes. Since 2020, Incoterms DPU has replaced the former DAT clause and significantly expanded its scope of application. Find out below what exactly DPU means, what obligations arise and how you can use this clause strategically in Procurement .
Key Facts
- DPU has replaced the Incoterms DAT clause since 2020 and extends the scope of application to all means of transport
- Seller bears all costs and risks until unloading at the agreed destination
- Only Incoterms clause where the seller is explicitly responsible for unloading
- Suitable for all types of transport, not just container and terminal deliveries
- Buyer assumes responsibility from the moment the goods are unloaded at their destination
Contents
What is Incoterms DPU? Definition, obligations and risks
DPU defines a delivery clause in which the seller bears full responsibility until complete unloading.
Basic features of DPU
DPU stands for "Delivered at Place Unloaded" and describes a delivery agreement in which the seller unloads the goods at the agreed destination. In contrast to other DAP regulations, DPU explicitly includes the seller's unloading obligation.
- Full assumption of costs for transportation and unloading by the seller
- Transfer of risk only after unloading at destination
- Applicable for all means of transportation and delivery locations
DPU vs. other Incoterms clauses
DPU differs significantly from DDP and DAP due to the explicit unloading obligation. While unloading is the buyer's responsibility with DAP, the seller assumes full responsibility with DPU.
Importance of DPU in Procurement
DPU offers buyers maximum planning security when receiving goods. The clause is particularly suitable for complex deliveries with heavy or bulky goods, where palletizing and unloading requires special expertise.
Implementation, obligations and evidence
The practical implementation of DPU requires clear agreements on discharge modalities and corresponding documentation.
Seller obligations with DPU
The seller bears comprehensive responsibility for the entire delivery process up to unloading. This includes the organization of transport, transport insurance and professional unloading at the destination.
- Provision of suitable discharge equipment
- Coordination with local authorities and terminals
- Documentation of proper unloading
Buyer obligations and cooperation
Buyers must make the agreed place of unloading accessible and cooperate with customs clearance. The timely provision of all necessary documents is essential for a smooth process.
Documentation and evidence
Complete documentation of the unloading process is crucial. Packing lists and unloading confirmations serve as proof of the proper transfer of risk and are relevant for any damage claims.
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Compliance key figures and quotas
Effective KPIs enable the monitoring and optimization of DPU deliveries in the purchasing process.
Discharge efficiency key figures
Measuring the unloading times and costs per unit provides information on the efficiency of DPU processing. Average unloading times of less than 4 hours are considered the benchmark for standard containers.
- Unloading time per container/pallet
- Unloading costs as a percentage of the value of the goods
- Damage rate during unloading
Compliance and level of documentation
The degree of completeness of DPU documentation is a critical KPI. A documentation rate of at least 98% ensures legally compliant processing and facilitates freight audits.
Supplier performance at DPU
The evaluation of delivery performance includes punctuality, completeness and quality of unloading. Top performers achieve punctuality rates of over 95% with minimal damage rates.
Risks, dependencies and countermeasures
DPU agreements entail specific risks that can be minimized by taking appropriate measures.
Discharge risks and liability issues
The main risk lies in the seller's unloading responsibility. Damage during unloading can lead to complex liability issues. A clear definition of the unloading modalities and appropriate insurance cover are essential.
- Damage to the goods during unloading
- Delays due to unsuitable discharge equipment
- Liability disputes in the event of accidents at the place of unloading
Cost risks and budget planning
Unforeseen unloading costs can put a considerable strain on the budget. Additional costs are often incurred, especially for special types of containers or difficult-to-access unloading locations.
Dependencies and countermeasures
Dependence on the vendor's unloading capacity requires careful supplier selection. Regular audits of unloading procedures and alternative unloading options significantly reduce the risk of failure.
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Practical example
An automotive supplier purchases machine components from Asia using a DPU clause. The seller organizes the sea transport and takes over the unloading at the factory gate using a special crane. The DPU agreement eliminates unloading costs of around EUR 2,500 per container for the buyer as well as the risk of unloading damage. The clear delineation of responsibilities enables precise budget planning and considerably reduces the internal coordination effort.
- Cost savings through seller unloading: 15% of transportation costs
- Reduction of the loss ratio by 60% through specialist personnel
- Reduction in goods receiving time by an average of 3 hours
Current developments and interpretation of Incoterms DPU
The use of DPU is constantly evolving, particularly due to digital technologies and changing logistics structures.
Digitization of DPU processing
Modern tracking systems and IoT technologies enable precise monitoring of the unloading process. AI-supported systems optimize the planning of unloading capacities and significantly reduce demurrage costs.
Sustainability and DPU application
Environmental aspects are becoming increasingly important in DPU agreements. Companies are increasingly integrating CO2 footprint calculations and sustainable discharge procedures into their DPU contracts in order to achieve ESG targets.
Legal developments
International Chambers of Commerce are continuously clarifying the interpretation of DPU clauses. Particular attention is paid to the delimitation of risk transfers for different means of transport and places of unloading.
Conclusion
Incoterms DPU offers buyers an advantageous solution for complex deliveries with high unloading costs. The clear distribution of responsibilities reduces operational risks and enables precise cost planning. However, successful DPU application requires careful supplier selection and detailed contract drafting. When used strategically, DPU significantly increases the efficiency of international procurement processes.
FAQ
What distinguishes DPU from DAP?
With DPU, the seller is responsible for unloading the goods at the destination, whereas with DAP, unloading is the buyer's responsibility. DPU therefore offers a better service, but can incur higher costs. With DPU, the risk is only transferred after unloading.
For which types of goods is DPU particularly suitable?
DPU is ideal for heavy, bulky or technically complex goods that require specialized unloading equipment. Mechanical engineering, steel products or chemicals particularly benefit from vendor unloading, as specialist knowledge and equipment are required.
What insurance is required for DPU?
The seller must take out transport insurance until the goods are fully unloaded. Liability insurance for unloading damage is also recommended. Buyers should check whether their public liability insurance covers damage caused by third-party unloading activities.
How is the discharge location defined for DPU?
The unloading location must be precisely specified in the contract, including access options and available infrastructure. Unclear location details lead to disputes and additional costs. GPS coordinates or detailed address details with contact persons are recommended.
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