DDU / DAP shipping from Vietnam to the USA
For buyers with their own customs broker and bond: we move the goods to the door, they clear and pay the duties.
DDU and DAP: the same thing in practice
DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) was removed from Incoterms in 2010 and replaced by DAP (Delivered at Place). Both mean the seller delivers to the named place, while the buyer handles import clearance and pays duties and taxes. Read DDP vs DDU vs DAP.
When DAP is the better choice
- The buyer is an established importer with a continuous customs bond
- Duty rates are volatile and the seller does not want tariff risk
- The buyer claims special programmes or refunds (e.g. drawback)
- Large project or wholesale shipments
Risks to manage
- Clearance delays if the buyer's broker is slow — storage and demurrage can build up.
- Unpaid duties: goods will not be released until the importer pays.
- Data consistency: invoices and ISF data must match what the buyer's broker declares.
We coordinate directly with the buyer's broker to keep cargo moving.
Popular routes
Frequently asked questions
Who pays US duties under DAP?
The buyer (importer of record) pays duties, taxes and customs fees.
Can you switch a shipment from DDP to DAP?
Yes, if agreed before arrival and the buyer has a broker and bond in place.
Do you still file the ISF under DAP?
The ISF is the importer's responsibility, but we provide the data and can file it on their behalf.
Related guides
- DDP vs DDU vs DAP: Which to Choose When Shipping from Vietnam to the USA
- DDP Shipping Cost from Vietnam to the USA: What a DDP Price Includes
- What Is an Importer of Record (IOR)? Definition, IOR Number, Bond and Who Should Be IOR
- DDP & DDU Shipping from Vietnam and Cambodia to USA & Canada | Balance Trans
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