Proof of Delivery

Proof of delivery closes out a shipment. When the consignee signs for the freight, the carrier captures the date, time, and signature — and, critically, any exceptions such as missing pieces or visible damage noted at the moment of receipt.

The POD is the basis for confirming completed delivery, releasing invoicing, and supporting or defending a freight claim. If damage or a shortage is not noted on the delivery receipt (an OS&D exception), recovering on a later claim becomes much harder.

Best practice for consignees is to inspect freight before signing and to record any discrepancy directly on the POD.