A purchase order (PO) is issued by the buyer to a supplier to confirm what is being ordered, at what price, and where and when it should be delivered. Once the supplier accepts it, the PO number is referenced on their invoice and packing slip so the three documents can be matched.
What to include on a purchase order
- Your company details (the buyer) and a unique PO number
- The vendor name and address
- The ship-to address and required delivery date
- Itemised lines with quantities and agreed unit prices
- Tax and the order total, plus any terms (payment terms, delivery instructions)
- An authorisation signature line
How to create a free purchase order
1Choose your country and enter your company details
2Enter the vendor, the ship-to address and the delivery date
3Add the items, quantities and prices
4Download the PDF and send it to the supplier