Why POD matters
For the consignor the POD is proof that the goods were delivered – the precondition for invoicing. For the carrier it evidences proper handover. For the consignee an annotated POD (with a reservation where there is damage) is the basis for damage claims against the consignor or the forwarder.
Electronic POD (ePOD)
Modern TMS systems and driver apps enable digital delivery receipts: the driver captures the consignee's signature, a time stamp, GPS coordinates and optionally photographs directly on a tablet. ePOD data is available to customers in real time in the tracking portal. That considerably speeds up invoicing and the handling of damage claims.
Reservations on the POD
Visible damage or shortages must be noted on the POD at the time of acceptance. An unqualified POD (with no reservation) makes later claims harder. Consignees should: inspect the goods before signing, note damage in pen on the consignment note, take photographs and submit a written claim within 7 days.
