Delivered at Place Unloaded (DPU): Further information

A common scenario is for delivery to a container yard (CY), in which case there may be Terminal Handling Charges (THC) for the account of the buyer.

If the specified place is an inland clearance depot, a free trade zone or similar, then use of this rule is straightforward – the goods can be delivered uncleared.

However complications can arise if the goods have to go through a clearance point before delivery.   Clearance of the goods may require close liaison between the carrier and the buyer, and where this goes wrong, there can be delays and disputes about demurrage.

(Typical issues: buyer needs to present original documents to authorities to obtain clearance.)

Use of this rule for delivery at the buyer’s depot can be problematical

Will the carrier be equipped to unload the goods without the assistance of the buyer?

The buyer may have fork-lift trucks, trolleys etc. available, but there may be Health
and Safety or legal restrictions on their use by non-employees