Proof of Delivery (POD) in freight transport

Definition

Proof of Delivery is a physical or digital record of shipment handover. It may include the consignee name, date, time, signature, location and reservations. Its evidential effect depends on the contract, process and applicable law.

Why does it matter?

The POD closes the operational transport chain and supports questions about delivery time, recipient or visible damage. It does not automatically replace a formal damage notice or other transport documents.

Key points

• Record recipient, time and shipment reference clearly.
• Document visible damage or shortages at handover.
• Link the POD securely to the shipment or order number.

Practical example

After delivery, the driver uploads a digital record with timestamp, recipient name and signature. The document is linked to the shipment file.

Common mistakes

• Accepting an unreadable signature without a recipient name
• Taking damage photos without recording a reservation
• Treating flight arrival or customs release as final delivery