A purchase order (PO) is a formal document issued by a buyer to a seller, authorizing and detailing a purchase of goods or services for international trade.
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Purchase Order Number PO-2025-0042 | Date 10 Jan 2025 | Buyer Reference REQ-2025-015 | Delivery Date 15 Mar 2025 |
From Global Trading Co. 45 Queen Street
Sydney, NSW 2000
Australia | To ABC Exports Inc. 1250 Commerce Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90017
United States |
Incoterms 2020 CIF Sydney | Terms of Payment T/T 30% advance, 70% against B/L copy |
| PRODUCT CODE | DESCRIPTION | QTY | UNIT | PRICE | AMOUNT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SS-CW-12 | Stainless Steel Cookware Set (12pc) | 200 | SET | 45.00 | 9000.00 |
| NS-FP-28 | Non-stick Frying Pan 28cm | 500 | PCS | 12.50 | 6250.00 |
| KU-SET-5 | Kitchen Utensil Set (5pc) | 400 | SET | 8.00 | 3200.00 |
| Subtotal | 1100 | USD 18,450.00 | |||
| Volume Discount (10%) | -USD 1,825.00 | ||||
| TOTAL | USD 16,625.00 | ||||
Shipping Details Method: Sea Freight Type: FCL Loading: Los Angeles, USA Discharge: Sydney, Australia | Additional Info Quality inspection required before shipment
Packing: Export standard cartons |
Signatory Company Global Trading Co. Name of Authorized Signatory James Wilson | Signature |
A purchase order is a legally binding document that initiates a commercial transaction between a buyer and seller. In international trade, it serves as the official authorization for a supplier to ship goods and is a key document in the procurement process. A well-structured PO helps prevent disputes and ensures both parties have clear expectations.
The purchase order outlines exactly what the buyer wants to purchase, including product specifications, quantities, agreed prices, delivery terms, and payment conditions. It becomes a binding contract when accepted by the seller, forming the basis for subsequent trade documents like invoices and shipping documents.
For importers and buyers, maintaining proper purchase orders is essential for inventory management, budget control, and audit compliance. The PO number is referenced throughout the transaction lifecycle, appearing on invoices, packing lists, and customs documents to link all related paperwork.
Add your company information (buyer/From) and the supplier details (seller/To) including complete addresses and contact information.
List all products you want to order with descriptions, product codes, quantities, units of measurement, and agreed unit prices.
Select the appropriate Incoterms (FOB, CIF, EXW, etc.) and define payment terms including any deposits or payment milestones.
Specify the required delivery date, method of shipment, and ports of loading and discharge.
Review all details, add any special terms or conditions, and sign to authorize the purchase order.
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