As a business owner, you should understand the various documents used in the procurement process. Two of the most common documents used in procurement are the purchase invoice and purchase order. While these documents are related to each other, they serve different purposes and understanding the differences between them is crucial for efficient and effective procurement. This blog post compares purchase invoices and orders, exploring their differences, uses, and benefits.
What is a Purchase Order?
A buyer uses a purchase order (PO) to request goods or services from a supplier. It contains important information such as the description of the goods or services, the quantity required, the agreed price, the delivery date, and the payment terms. The purchase order serves as a legally binding agreement between the buyer and the supplier, outlining the terms and conditions of the transaction.
The purchasing department or the buyer usually creates a purchase order and sends it to the supplier for confirmation. Once the buyer confirms the purchase order, they bind themselves to a contract with the supplier, and they become obligated to fulfill the order as per the terms and conditions outlined in the purchase order.
Benefits of a Purchase Order:
The use of a purchase order has several benefits for both the buyer and the supplier. Some of these benefits include:
Improved Communication:
The buyer and supplier communicate all the relevant information by ensuring a purchase order. This reduces the chances of misunderstandings and ensures that both parties are on the same page regarding the transaction.
Better Record Keeping:
A purchase order serves as a record of the transaction between the buyer and the supplier. It contains all the relevant information, such as the description of the goods or services, the quantity required, the agreed price, the delivery date, and the payment terms. This makes it easier for both parties to keep track of the transaction and refer to it in the future.
Increased Accountability:
A purchase order creates a legal obligation for the supplier to fulfill the order as per the terms and conditions outlined in the purchase order. This increases accountability and ensures that the supplier delivers the goods or services as per the buyer’s requirements.
What is a Purchase Invoice?
The supplier issues a purchase invoice to the buyer after delivering the goods or services. It contains important information such as the description of the goods or services delivered, the quantity delivered, the agreed price, and the payment terms. The purchase invoice serves as a request for payment from the buyer to the supplier.
A purchase invoice is usually created by the supplier and sent to the buyer for payment. Once the buyer receives the purchase invoice, they will verify that the goods or services have been delivered as per the terms and conditions outlined in the purchase order. If everything is in order, the buyer will then process the payment to the supplier.
Benefits of a Purchase Invoice:
The use of a purchase invoice has several benefits for both the buyer and the supplier. Some of these benefits include:
Faster Payment Processing:
The supplier can request payment from the buyer as soon as the goods or services have been delivered by issuing a purchase invoice. This ensures that the supplier receives payment in a timely manner, improving cash flow and reducing the risk of late payments.
Improved Record Keeping:
A purchase invoice serves as a record of the goods or services delivered and also the payment terms agreed upon. This makes it easier for both parties to keep track of the transaction and refer to it in the future.
Increased Transparency:
A purchase invoice provides the buyer with a clear breakdown of the cost of the goods or services delivered, including any taxes or additional charges. Then this increases transparency and reduces the risk of misunderstandings between the buyer and the supplier.
Definition:
A purchase order is a document that a buyer sends to a supplier, specifying the goods or services they wish to purchase, the quantity, the price, and the delivery date. A purchase invoice, on the other hand, is a bill that the supplier sends to the buyer, requesting payment for the goods or services that have been delivered.
Timing:
Before goods or services are delivered, a purchase order is generated, whereas a purchase invoice is generated after the delivery has occurred.
Function:
A purchase order serves as a legally binding agreement between the buyer and also the supplier, outlining the terms of the transaction. A purchase invoice, on the other hand, is a request for payment and serves as a record of the transaction.
Contents:
A purchase invoice lists total amount due, taxes/fees, payment terms, and also purchase order details (goods, quantity, price, delivery).
Approval:
The buyer’s management team typically approves a purchase order before sending it to the supplier. The supplier sends a purchase invoice to the buyer without requiring approval.
CONCLUSIONS:
In conclusion, purchase orders and purchase invoices are both critical documents in the purchasing process. While purchase orders initiate a purchase and serve as a legally binding agreement between the buyer and the supplier, purchase invoices finalize the transaction and serve as a record of the goods or services delivered and the payment owed.
FAQ:
1. What is the purpose of a purchase order?
A purchase order is a binding document that initiates and ensures mutual agreement between the buyer and also supplier on goods or services, quantity, price, and delivery.
2. Do I need to create a purchase order for every purchase?
Purchase orders recommended for larger/complex purchases to ensure agreement and also prevent disputes. Not always necessary for every purchase.
3. What are the key details that must be included in a purchase invoice?
A purchase invoice must have supplier and buyer details, description of goods or services, quantity, price, taxes, fees, and payment terms.
4. What happens if there is a discrepancy between the purchase order and the purchase invoice?
If there is a discrepancy between the purchase order and the purchase invoice, it is important to resolve the issue as soon as possible. Collaboration between buyer and supplier is needed to identify and resolve discrepancies in a mutually agreeable manner.
5. How can I keep track of my purchase orders and purchase invoices?
Tools and software aid in tracking purchase orders and also invoices for businesses.