A purchase order is a document a buyer issues to a supplier specifying goods or services it intends to purchase under stated terms.
How it works in retail
It usually identifies products, quantities, prices and requested delivery information. Order acceptance and the governing agreement determine the commercial obligations.
A retail example
A boutique sends a PO for specified styles and sizes, with delivery dates and agreed wholesale prices.
What to keep in mind
A PO, supplier confirmation, invoice and shipping notice serve different purposes. Check changes against the accepted order rather than relying on an informal message.
Examples are illustrative. Terminology and measurement conventions can vary by business and market.