Buying DDP: Protection Against Customs Compliance Liability?

Many companies are lured into purchasing from vendors on a “delivered duty paid” or DDP (formerly called “landed duty paid”) basis based on the prospect of obtaining attractive prices without the responsibility of being an importer of record. However, unexpected delays, cargo detentions, compliance risks, undisclosed middleman markups, or other problems with DDP shipments can end up costing the buyer more than if it had acted as the importer in the first place. In addition, Executive Order 14411 issued on June 3, 2026, may increase federal scrutiny of DDP transactions and some foreign importers may no longer be able to act as importers of record. This webinar will explore some of the risks involved in purchasing on a DDP basis, including those associated with EO 14411, and how to minimize those risks.