01
Separate planning from commitment
A draft can change. Mark the order as placed only after the supplier confirms it, then keep the expected quantities and dates visible to inventory planners.
02
Close the loop at receiving
Record what physically arrived, leave the balance open when appropriate and update the destination location only for accepted goods.
Business example
Two hundred mailer boxes move from order to receipt
The supplier confirms 200 boxes and delivers 120 first, leaving 80 outstanding.
| Ordered | Received | Outstanding |
|---|---|---|
| 200 | 120 | 80 |
- Confirm the need and prepare the PO
- Send it and mark it placed after supplier confirmation
- Record 120 received
- Keep 80 open
Sources
Further reading
Questions, answered
Frequently asked questions
What should I check first?
A draft can change. Mark the order as placed only after the supplier confirms it, then keep the expected quantities and dates visible to inventory planners.
What result should I aim for?
Move from a real stock need to a supplier commitment, incoming goods and a completed receipt.