TL;DR: DDP and DAP are shipping terms that say who pays import duty and tax. DDP means delivered duty paid, where the seller pays them in advance. DAP means delivered at place, where the buyer pays on arrival. For our orders, the customer pays import duty and tax, and we explain what to expect in writing before you order. Pieces start from £600.
What the letters mean
DDP stands for delivered duty paid. The seller arranges to pay the import charges, so the buyer receives the parcel without a further bill. DAP stands for delivered at place. The seller delivers, and the buyer is responsible for import duty and tax when the parcel arrives.
Where the terms come from
DDP and DAP are part of a set of international trade terms, often called Incoterms, which businesses use to agree who is responsible for each part of a shipment. They are mostly used between businesses, but couriers and online sellers use the same letters when talking to private buyers. Knowing the two most common ones helps you understand any message you receive about a parcel.
Why it matters for a ring
A ring is a valuable item, so duty and tax can be a meaningful amount. Knowing who pays, and when, helps you budget and avoids a difficult conversation with a courier at your door.
Our approach
The customer pays import duty and tax. Rules differ by country, and we explain what to expect in writing before you order. We are jewellers, not tax advisers, so we encourage you to check current local guidance.
What you may be asked to do
- Pay duty and tax to the carrier before delivery, or on arrival.
- Provide identification, or a tax number in some countries.
- Be available to receive the parcel.
Comparing the two in practice
With a DDP style arrangement, the buyer sees one price and the seller carries the cost and the admin of clearance. That feels simple, but the price has to cover it. With a DAP style arrangement, the price of the ring is separate from the import charges, which you pay when the ring arrives. That makes the ring price easier to compare, but it means you need to plan for a second payment. Neither is dishonest. What matters is that you know which one applies before you pay, and that the paperwork shows the correct value.
How the payment usually works
With import charges paid by the buyer, the carrier normally contacts you by email or text before delivery with the amount due and a way to pay on their own website. Some charge on the doorstep instead. Paying promptly keeps the parcel moving. If a message looks suspicious, go to the carrier's site directly and enter your tracking number. See what to do if a ring is held at customs.
Why we are careful about wording
Shipping terms are used differently in different contexts, and some carriers use their own terms. If you see an unfamiliar term, ask us to explain it in writing. Our guide to ten questions international customers ask sets out the basics.
The paperwork
The invoice shows the price paid for the ring. Our guide to reading your invoice and certificate explains the document, and our guide on why the true value goes on a customs form explains why we declare it accurately.
Questions to ask before you pay
- Who pays duty and tax, and when?
- What happens if the parcel is held?
- What value will be declared?
- Who do I contact if there is a problem?
Working with us
We work by video consultation and message, send sketches and CAD renders, and make nothing until you approve the design in writing. Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are. Delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx.
Frequently asked questions
Is it DDP or DAP?
The customer pays import duty and tax. We explain in writing before you order.
Will I be surprised by a bill?
We aim for no surprises, by explaining what to expect first.
What are Incoterms?
A set of standard trade terms that say who handles each part of a shipment.
Can I pay in advance?
Ask us. We explain the options in writing.
Is it insured?
Yes, insured and tracked.