LEGACY INTERNATIONAL TRADE TERMS
Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU)
Delivered Duty Unpaid is a legacy Incoterms® term from earlier editions. It is still used informally in shipping discussions to indicate a delivery arrangement where destination import charges are not prepaid by the seller.
DELIVERED DUTY UNPAID IN PRACTICE
- Identify the wordingCheck whether DDU is historic or informal.
- Allocate responsibilitiesName the clearance and destination-charge owners.
- Confirm the handoffSpecify the place and exception process.
Use the agreed units, actual records and approved procedures for your operation.
A WORKED EXAMPLE
A familiar acronym leaves a gap.
A quotation says only DDU to the customer’s city. Before dispatch, the parties clarify the exact destination, importer responsibilities and charges. They then document the chosen current rule and version, where appropriate, instead of relying on the old acronym to answer every question.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR QUOTE
Agree the requirement before comparing quotes
Use the actual shipment, stock and service requirements. Record the billing unit, included work and responsibility for exceptions.
A LITTLE MORE CONTEXT
Questions about Delivered Duty Unpaid
Is DDU a current Incoterms 2020 rule?
No. It is a legacy term.
Should software automatically replace DDU with DAP?
No. Review the actual responsibilities and approve any contractual change.
Does unpaid mean no duties are due?
No. It concerns the payment arrangement, not exemption from applicable charges.
Source & example notes
ICC: revised Incoterms 2010 rules.
Sources provide background on the linked topic. Product documentation describes a particular implementation; confirm the rules, contract and procedures that apply to your operation.
Quantities, costs and scenarios are illustrative, not operating targets, approved handling instructions or guarantees. Source guidance reviewed 22 October 2026.
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