Delivered at Place Unloaded
Seller delivers AND unloads at destination. The only Incoterm requiring seller to unload - formerly DAT.
When goods unloaded at destination
Seller's responsibility (essential - risk until unloaded)
Bagged cement from Dangote factories
Large cement companies have their own logistics fleets and unloading equipment at destination terminals.
DAP Tema if buyer handles unloading at their warehouse
Wheat shipments for WFP
Humanitarian aid shipments often use DPU where the shipper unloads at designated relief terminals.
DAP Mombasa if receiving organization handles unloading
Less common in African exports but used for bulk imports (grain, cement, fertilizer) where the supplier has unloading arrangements at African port terminals. Also used by large industrial suppliers delivering to specific terminal facilities.
The Mistake: Agreeing to DPU without confirming unloading facilities at the destination terminal.
The Problem: Seller is responsible for unloading but may not have cranes, forklifts, or labor at destination.
The Solution: Confirm unloading capability before agreeing to DPU. If in doubt, use DAP where buyer unloads.
The Mistake: Not budgeting for terminal handling and unloading fees at destination.
The Problem: Unloading costs at African ports can be significant - demurrage, crane hire, and labor costs add up quickly.
The Solution: Get quotations for unloading at destination terminal before pricing DPU. Include a buffer for potential delays.
