As Incoterms progress from E to D terms, who bears more responsibility?

As Incoterms advance from E terms (like Ex Works) to D terms (such as Delivered Duty Paid), the seller's responsibilities increase significantly. In E terms, the seller's obligations are minimal—typically only to make the goods available for the buyer at their location. As the terms shift to D terms, the seller assumes more comprehensive responsibilities, including managing transportation, acquiring insurance, and handling customs clearance in the destination country.

This transition illustrates a shift in the burden of costs and risks from the buyer to the seller. By the time you reach D terms, the seller is assumed to deliver the goods ready for unloading at the buyer's premises, taking on substantial risks until the goods reach the agreed destination. Therefore, as Incoterms progress from E to D, the seller becomes more accountable for the items throughout transportation and delivery, affirming the choice that the seller bears more responsibility.