Definition
A Purchase Order (PO) is a formal written authorization wielded by a buyer requesting a vendor to supply certain goods or services under specified conditions, including stipulated prices, quantities, and delivery dates. Once the vendor accepts the purchase order, it becomes a legally binding document that obligates both parties to adhere to the specified terms and conditions.
Examples
- Manufacturing Sector:
- A car manufacturer issues a purchase order to a steel supplier for 10,000 units of stainless steel to be delivered in three installments, with each delivery consisting of 3,333 units at a predetermined price.
- Retail Industry:
- A retail chain sends a purchase order to a clothing manufacturer for 5,000 units of winter coats to be delivered by the beginning of the fall season, specifying the price per unit, size variety, and material specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the key components of a purchase order?
- Buyer Information: Name, address, and contact details of the buyer.
- Vendor Information: Name, address, and contact details of the vendor.
- Purchase Order Number: A unique identifier for tracking purposes.
- Description of Goods/Services: Detailed description including quantity, specifications, and other requirements.
- Price and Payment Terms: Agreed unit price, total amount, and payment terms.
- Delivery Date and Terms: Expected delivery date and shipping instructions.
- Terms and Conditions: Legal stipulations governing the purchase order.
How does a purchase order differ from an invoice?
- Purchase Order: Initiated by the buyer, indicating a request to purchase goods or services.
- Invoice: Issued by the vendor, indicating a request for payment for goods or services supplied.
Is a purchase order mandatory for all transactions?
- Not all transactions require a purchase order, but they are commonly used in business to business (B2B) and large procurement transactions to formalize agreements and track spending.
What happens if the terms of a purchase order are not met?
- If the terms are not met, the purchase order can be disputed, leading to potential cancellation, negotiation, or legal action, depending on the stipulations within the contract.
Can a purchase order be modified after it has been issued?
- Yes, but modifications must be mutually agreed upon by both parties and documented through a revised purchase order or amendment.
Related Terms
- Invoice: A commercial document issued by a seller to a buyer indicating the products, quantities, and agreed prices for goods or services provided.
- Procurement: The process of obtaining goods or services, typically via a formal process of planning, requisitioning, ordering, inspection, and financing.
- Contract: A legally binding agreement between two or more parties outlining obligations, responsibilities, and rights.
Online Resources
- Investopedia on Purchase Orders
- Wikipedia - Purchase Order
- Small Business Administration (SBA) on Purchase Orders
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Procurement and Purchasing for Project Managers by Stephen Guth”
- “The Procurement and Supply Manager’s Desk Reference by Fred Sollish and John Semanik”
- “Fundamentals of Purchasing and Supply Management by Robert M. Monczka”
Fundamentals of Purchase Order: Procurement Basics Quiz
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