Purchase Order Generator
Authorize a purchase with a supplier-ready purchase order, itemized line items, and delivery details. Export a polished PDF — free, no signup.
From order to delivery
Need a formal request before the purchase order itself, so someone internally can approve the spend? Start with the Purchase Requisition Generator. When goods ship, match delivery against the order with the Packing Slip Generator. The supplier then bills against this order with the Invoice Generator.
What to include on a purchase order
- PO number and date — for tracking and later matching against the invoice.
- Buyer and supplier details — full contact information for both parties.
- Itemized goods or services — description, unit price, and quantity for each line.
- Delivery date and address — where and when the order should arrive.
- Payment and sales tax terms — so the supplier bills correctly against the order.
Frequently asked questions
When does a business issue a purchase order?
A buyer issues a purchase order to formally authorize a purchase before the supplier ships goods or performs work — it locks in the item, quantity, price, and delivery terms up front. Businesses that receive a purchase order (as a supplier) use it to confirm what was agreed before starting the order.
How does a purchase order relate to the supplier’s invoice?
The purchase order comes first and states what the buyer is authorizing; the supplier’s invoice comes after delivery and requests payment for it. Matching the invoice against the original purchase order (a "three-way match" with the packing slip) is a standard accounts-payable control to catch pricing or quantity discrepancies before paying.
Can a purchase order be cancelled after it is sent?
Only if the supplier has not already started fulfilling it, or your terms explicitly allow cancellation. Once accepted, a purchase order functions like a contract, so check your supplier agreement before assuming you can cancel without cost.
Related Calculators
Purchase Requisition Generator
Request internal approval before issuing a purchase order. Free PDF export, no signup
Packing Slip Generator
List what was shipped, quantities, and recipient details. Free PDF export, no signup
Invoice Generator
Create an itemized invoice with optional sales tax and payment details. Free PDF export, no signup
Sales Tax Calculator
State + local sales tax rates and nexus obligations