DDP vs DDU: What's the Difference?

If you've ever sent a parcel overseas, you might have come across the terms DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) and DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid). These are international shipping terms that determine who pays customs duties and taxes - you, the sender, or the person receiving the parcel.

Understanding the difference can help you avoid unexpected costs or delivery delays, especially when booking through a comparison site like Interparcel

What is DDP?

Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) means that the sender takes full responsibility for all delivery costs, including customs duties, import taxes, and clearance fees.

In other words, the shipper pays everything upfront so the parcel can be delivered directly to the recipient without them needing to pay for any additional charges.

This options provides a smooth, hassle-free delivery experience for the receiver - perfect if you want to ensure your customer or loved one doesn't face surprise costs on delivery.

However, it can be more expensive for the sender, as all duties and taxes are included in the overall cost of sending

What is DDU?

Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU), sometimes called Delivered At Place (DAP), means that the recipient is responsible for paying any customs or import fees when the parcel arrives in their country.

In this case, the shipper covers the cost of shipping up to the destination country, but once the parcel reaches customs, the receiver must pay any applicable duties or taxes before delivery can be completed.

This can make shipping cheaper for the sender, but it's important to let the receiver know in advance that they might need to pay additional charges to release their parcel.

DDP vs DDU: What's the difference?

How does it affect Interparcel customers?

When booking an International delivery through Interparcel, duties and taxes depend on the courier and service you select.

Up until now, most courier services available through Interparcel have been DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid), meaning the receiver would need to pay any customs charges when the parcel arrived in their country.

This is the standard process for most personal shipments and eCommerce orders sent across borders.

However, Interparcel are now pleased too offer DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) services via FedEx.

DDP Services Now Available with Interparcel

Interparcel now offers a Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) solution on all international FedEx services, giving customers a clearer and more predictable way to send parcels overseas.

All duties, taxes, and customs charges are calculated and paid upfront at checkout, and the fees you see are fully guaranteed. You won’t receive any further bills or supplementary invoices later (relating to taxes and duties), ensuring complete cost certainty from the moment you book.

This approach also supports faster customs clearance, reduces delays, and creates a smoother delivery experience for the recipient. Paired with our straightforward booking process and FedEx’s trusted global network, it provides a reliable, transparent, and hassle free option for international shipping

For more detailed information on our DDP services, make sure to read our full guide

Tips for avoiding delays and extra costs

• Be upfront with your recipient - Let them know they may need to pay duties if you're using a DDU service.
• Provide accurate customs details - Always declare the correct item value and contents when booking through Interparcel.
• Check the destination country's import rules - Some items have restrictions or additional taxes.
• Compare couriers - Use Interparcel's quote tool to find the best price and service for your international delivery.
• Choose a DDP service for total peace of mind and cost certainty.

Summary

Both DDP and DDU have their benefits. DDP gives your recipient a stress-free delivery experience, while DDU keeps the costs lower for the sender.

When booking through Interparcel, we offer international DDP services with FedEx, as well as DDU options. Our checkout process clearly shows all available options so you can choose what works best for your shipment.

By understanding these terms, you can make more informed choices, avoid unwanted surprises, and ensure your international parcels reach their destination smoothly.

If you have any further questions on our DDP services, please contact our Customer Service Team.