| 1 | DDP scope and named destination | Confirm the exact delivery address in Dubai and whether the quotation covers import clearance, applicable duties and taxes, and delivery to that address. | A written quotation listing the named place of destination, included services, exclusions, and any conditions. | Under DDP, the seller arranges import clearance and pays applicable import duties and taxes. The named delivery point should be clearly stated. |
| 2 | FCL container suitability | Check that the provider can arrange a full container load and confirm container type, cargo dimensions, weight, and loading requirements. | Container-size recommendation and written confirmation of cargo limits and loading assumptions. | Container suitability depends on the shipment’s dimensions, gross weight, cargo characteristics, and equipment availability. |
| 3 | Ocean freight routing | Ask for the proposed departure port in China, destination port or terminal, routing, transshipment details, and estimated transit-time range. | A shipment plan showing the route and whether the sailing is direct or involves transshipment. | Routing and schedules can affect transit time; published or estimated schedules are not guarantees. |
| 4 | Origin handling in China | Verify whether pickup, export documentation, origin terminal handling, container loading, and export customs procedures are included. | An itemized origin-cost breakdown and a list of documents required from the shipper. | Clear origin scope helps identify charges or responsibilities that might otherwise be excluded from the quote. |
| 5 | UAE import clearance | Confirm who will submit the import declaration, which importer details are required, and how product-specific permits or approvals are handled. | A document checklist and written description of the customs-clearance process and responsibilities. | Requirements depend on the goods and shipment details. Some products may require additional approvals or supporting documents. |
| 6 | Duties and taxes | Ask how applicable customs duties, VAT, and any product-specific taxes are assessed, paid, and documented within the DDP arrangement. | Written confirmation of tax responsibility, calculation assumptions, and supporting payment or clearance records where available. | Tax treatment varies by product classification, customs value, origin, and current UAE rules; do not rely on an unexplained flat estimate. |
| 7 | Product classification and declared value | Provide accurate product descriptions, quantities, country of origin, and commercial values; confirm who checks the tariff classification. | Draft commercial invoice and packing list for review before shipment, plus the proposed classification where applicable. | Accurate declarations support customs processing. Incorrect descriptions or values can lead to delays, reassessment, or penalties. |
| 8 | Dubai final-mile delivery | Confirm delivery location, vehicle access, appointment requirements, unloading arrangements, and whether delivery is to curbside, dock, or another agreed point. | A delivery plan stating the exact delivery point and any access, waiting-time, or unloading charges. | DDP delivery does not automatically include unloading at the destination unless the parties specifically agree to it. |
| 9 | Schedule visibility and exception handling | Check how shipment milestones are shared and how the provider handles vessel delays, customs inspections, port congestion, or delivery changes. | Sample milestone updates and a written escalation contact or process. | Tracking and a clear escalation process help the consignee plan for schedule changes and operational exceptions. |
| 10 | Quotation transparency and cargo protection | Review the validity period, currency, free-time assumptions, possible surcharges, cancellation terms, and whether cargo insurance is included or optional. | An itemized quotation, applicable terms and conditions, and separate insurance details if coverage is offered. | DDP does not itself mean cargo insurance is included. Written terms help clarify cost exposure and coverage before booking. |