Free Delivery Order Generator

What Is a Delivery Order?

A delivery order (DO) is a document issued by a seller, supplier, or warehouse to authorise and record the release and delivery of goods to a buyer or consignee. It serves as proof that specific items have been dispatched and should be received by the recipient.

For ecommerce sellers and wholesalers, delivery orders are essential for tracking shipments, confirming stock movements, and maintaining accurate inventory records. Unlike an invoice (which requests payment), a delivery order simply confirms what was shipped, in what quantities, and to whom.

When Do You Need a Delivery Order?

Delivery orders are used across supply chain and logistics operations. Common scenarios:

• Warehouse dispatch — authorising the release of goods from your warehouse to a customer or retail outlet
• B2B deliveries — providing a formal record of goods shipped to business customers, often referenced against their purchase order
• Ecommerce fulfilment — documenting items picked, packed, and shipped for online orders across platforms like Shopee, Lazada, or your own store
• Cross-border shipments — accompanying goods with a delivery order alongside the commercial invoice and packing slip
• Internal stock transfers — moving inventory between your own warehouses, retail stores, or fulfilment centres
• Third-party logistics (3PL) — instructing a logistics partner to release goods on your behalf

What to Include on a Delivery Order

A professional delivery order should contain these key elements:

Delivery Order vs Delivery Note vs Packing Slip

Typical workflow: Buyer sends a purchase order → you issue a delivery order to your warehouse → goods are picked and packed with a packing slip → the delivery order accompanies the shipment → recipient signs to confirm receipt.

Tips for Managing Delivery Orders Efficiently

1. Number sequentially — use a consistent format like DO-2026-001 so you can track and audit easily. Gaps in numbering flag missing shipments.
2. Always reference the PO — linking each delivery order to the buyer's purchase order simplifies reconciliation and reduces payment disputes.
3. Include SKU codes — descriptions alone can be ambiguous. SKU codes eliminate confusion, especially for similar products in different sizes or colours.
4. Get signatures at both ends — the dispatcher signs when goods leave, the recipient signs on arrival. This creates a complete chain of custody.
5. Note discrepancies immediately — if the recipient finds damaged or missing items, they should note it on the delivery order before signing. This protects both parties.
6. Keep copies — maintain at least three copies: one for the sender, one for the recipient, and one for the driver or courier. Digital copies (PDF) are increasingly preferred.
7. Sync with inventory — every delivery order should trigger an inventory update. Manual tracking leads to stock discrepancies. Tools like OneCart automate this across multiple sales channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a delivery order the same as an invoice?

No. A delivery order authorises and records the physical release of goods — it lists items, quantities, and delivery details but does not include pricing or payment terms. An invoice is a financial document requesting payment. In practice, both documents reference the same transaction but serve different purposes. The delivery order goes with the goods; the invoice goes to the accounts department.

Do I need a delivery order for every shipment?

For B2B transactions, yes — delivery orders are standard practice and often required for goods receipt and inventory reconciliation. For B2C ecommerce, a packing slip usually suffices for individual parcels. However, if you're shipping bulk orders to a retail customer or transferring stock between locations, a formal delivery order is recommended.

Can I use a delivery order as proof of delivery?

Yes, when signed by the recipient. A signed delivery order serves as proof of delivery (POD) and can be used to resolve disputes about whether goods were received. For maximum legal protection, ensure the recipient prints their name, signs, and notes the date and time of receipt. Many businesses now use digital signatures or photo proof alongside physical delivery orders.

What happens if items are damaged or missing on delivery?

The recipient should note any discrepancies directly on the delivery order before signing — for example, "2 cartons damaged" or "Item X short by 5 units". This creates an immediate record that both parties can reference when filing claims, requesting replacements, or adjusting invoices. Never sign a delivery order without inspecting the goods first.