Freight Glossary
Proof of Delivery
Proof of delivery (POD) is a document, physical or digital, that confirms a shipment was delivered to the intended recipient, typically including the recipient's signature, delivery time, and condition of goods at receipt. A digital POD might include a timestamped photo of pallets on the dock, a GPS location pin, and an electronic signature from the receiving clerk.
Why it matters
POD is the primary document used to resolve delivery disputes, validate freight invoices, and support freight claims. Without a clean POD, shippers have limited recourse for billing discrepancies or loss claims. Freight claims without supporting POD documentation are rejected 60 to 80 percent of the time by most carriers.
When to use it
Require POD on every shipment. It is non-negotiable for high-value freight, retail compliance programs, and any situation where delivery confirmation is needed for invoice payment or claim filing. For retail replenishment programs, insist on photo PODs at the dock to protect against shortage claims from receiving facilities.
How Warp thinks about it
Warp captures digital proof of delivery across its network, giving shippers real-time confirmation and a documented record for every pallet delivered. Orbit monitors delivery status and flags exceptions. The Warp driver app captures photo, signature, and GPS data at every stop, creating a complete digital POD trail accessible from the shipper dashboard.