Short version: Ask for a DDP quote — Delivered Duty Paid. The factory or freight forwarder handles freight, customs and duties, and your goods arrive at your door with no surprise bills. Air freight: 3–7 days. Sea: 25–40 days.
What is DDP?
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is an Incoterm where the seller delivers the goods to your address with all freight, export and import customs, and duties already paid. For a new brand it's the simplest, lowest-stress option: one price, door to door, no customs paperwork on your end.
DDP vs other terms
- EXW (Ex-Works): you arrange everything from the factory door — cheapest on paper, most work and risk.
- FOB: seller gets goods onto the ship; you handle ocean freight and import.
- DDP: seller handles it all to your door. Best for beginners.
Air vs sea freight
- Air: ~3–7 days, best for samples and first small runs or urgent restocks. Higher per-kg cost.
- Sea: ~25–40 days door to door, far cheaper per unit — best for larger bulk once you can plan ahead.
- Express (DHL/FedEx): 3–5 days for samples and tiny parcels.
Duties & taxes (what to expect)
Apparel duty rates vary by country (often roughly 10–20% of declared value, plus local VAT/sales tax where applicable). With DDP these are built into your quote, so there's no surprise invoice. Always confirm whether your DDP quote includes destination taxes like VAT.
How to avoid problems
- Get a DDP all-in quote in writing (freight + duties + any taxes).
- Confirm HS codes and declared values are correct.
- For first orders, ship by air — speed and simplicity beat saving a little.
FAQ
What does DDP shipping mean?
Delivered Duty Paid: the seller delivers to your door with freight, customs and duties already paid — no surprise bills.
How long does shipping from China take?
Air freight about 3–7 days; sea freight about 25–40 days door to door.