Proof of Delivery
Also written as: POD — Proof of Delivery
A document or electronic record signed by the consignee confirming that a shipment has been received at its destination.
Full Definition
A Proof of Delivery (POD) serves as official confirmation that a shipment has been successfully delivered to the intended recipient, typically including the recipient's signature, delivery date and time, and condition of goods. It is a critical document in freight claims, billing disputes, and customer service. Editors should note the abbreviation POD is also used in other supply chain contexts (e.g., 'Print on Demand'), so disambiguation may be required. 'Proof of delivery' is three words and should not be hyphenated. The abbreviation POD should be expanded at first use.
Usage
Usage note: Expand POD at first use. In documents where 'Print on Demand' also appears, use the full form throughout to avoid ambiguity. Three words, no hyphens.
In Context
- "The carrier uploaded the electronic proof of delivery to the shipper's portal within two hours of drop-off." — Last-mile delivery operations
- "Editors should expand 'POD' at first use and note whether 'Print on Demand' is also referenced in the same document." — Multi-context document review