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What is a PO Number?


A PO number is the unique ID that identifies a PO (Purchase Order).

The purchase order number is typically used to track and manage the order, allowing the company to easily identify and reference it in their records. The purchase order number is typically assigned by the company issuing the purchase order, and it is included on the purchase order document itself. It is typically used to keep track of the order as it is processed, and it can be used to track the status of the order, verify payment, and identify the goods or services that have been purchased.

Trends and History

Historically, when PO numbers were used on paper POs, the numbers contained department codes and other information to help staff find POs. The extra information in the number helped users gain quick information about the PO without having to reference the PO itself.

Today, the convention to embed information in each PO number persists although the trend is to omit it since the extra information is unnecessary due to today's ability to find POs via digital search.

See Also

Purchase Order System, Purchase Order, Requisition.

Example Usage

"Our PO numbers always begin with a three number project code."

Purchasing Note

Aestiva purchase order systems can auto-generate PO numbers in many ways. Call for details.