A delivery receipt is written proof of the handover of goods to the recipient. It contains the date, signature, and other details regarding the delivery. For freight forwarders, senders, and recipients, this receipt is an important document for legally compliant deliveries and to resolve any claims.
In practice, the delivery receipt is usually created during transport by parcel services or freight forwarders. The driver or delivery person has the recipient acknowledge the handover. This can be done by signature on paper or digitally. The time and place of delivery are also documented. The receipt is then archived in the system and can be accessed if necessary.
Important information on a delivery receipt includes the recipient's name, date, time, and possibly a stamp or company logo. Some receipts also contain information about the condition of the goods. If damage is discovered, it can be noted directly on the receipt. This makes subsequent claims for damages easier to assess.
The delivery receipt also fulfills a legal function. According to the German Commercial Code (HGB), it serves as proof of contract fulfillment. The freight forwarder can use it to prove that the delivery has been made. For the sender, this means: As soon as the receipt is received, the goods are officially handed over. The recipient confirms receipt of the goods with their signature.
The digital delivery receipt offers additional advantages. It can be easily saved, searched, and forwarded. Many companies are digitizing their logistics processes to work more efficiently. The traditional paper receipt is declining in importance, but remains common in many industries. It is often mandatory, especially for international deliveries.
