What to include in a purchase order
- Buyer and supplier details.
- PO number, order date, expected delivery date, and payment terms.
- Line items with quantity, rate, tax, shipping, and total.
- Delivery instructions, approval notes, and contact person.
Purchase order vs invoice
A purchase order usually records what a buyer wants to purchase. An invoice usually requests payment after goods or services are supplied. Keep both documents where your accounting process requires them.