DDP or DAP bike delivery: ask who handles import clearance

The import-clearance difference

Under Incoterms 2020, DDP generally assigns import clearance and applicable duties/taxes to the seller; DAP leaves import clearance to the buyer. ICC Academy explains the distinction and practical limits on a foreign seller handling imports. These trade terms need to be part of the actual agreement; they do not by themselves describe your consumer warranty or every checkout condition.

Turn the term into questions

For a GRARO order, ask: “What named destination and Incoterms version apply? Who is responsible for import clearance? Which duties, VAT and clearance fees are included? Who handles an unexpected carrier invoice, and what evidence will I receive?” Obtain the reply before payment.

Suppose the reply says only “door-to-door shipping included.” That confirms neither the import-clearance party nor who pays duty and VAT, because both DAP and DDP can deliver to an agreed destination. Ask for those missing responsibilities explicitly. If the seller cannot arrange the import side of a proposed DDP order, resolve the term and cost plan before payment rather than assuming the label will make it happen.

Compare obligations as well as totals

A cheaper DAP offer needs a separately verified import calculation and clearance plan. A DDP offer needs credible written inclusions and a seller able to deliver them. Do not double-add a tax already included or silently zero a charge nobody has confirmed.

Keep the invoice, written delivery term and carrier documents together privately. Resolve a conflicting bill with the seller and carrier using the written agreement; keep customs declarations accurate. A reassuring acronym is useful only when the order’s actual handling matches it.

Once the responsibilities are clear, use the EU landed-cost worksheet to check the amounts. It answers the numerical question; the delivery agreement establishes who is meant to handle each line.