Sales & Distribution
A packing slip is a document included with shipments that lists the items enclosed in the package, helping recipients verify their order against what was shipped.
Full Definition
A packing slip, also known as a shipping list or delivery note, details the contents of a shipped package. It typically includes the quantity and description of each item, but unlike an invoice, it does not show pricing information. For CPG brands, this document is crucial for confirming that the correct products and quantities are picked, packed, and sent to distributors, retailers, or direct-to-consumer customers. It serves as a verification tool for both the sender and the receiver to ensure order accuracy.
Why It Matters for CPG Brands
For CPG brand operators, accurate packing slips prevent shipping errors, reduce returns, and improve customer satisfaction. They are vital for maintaining inventory accuracy and streamlining the receiving process for your partners, ensuring your brand's reputation for reliability. Incorrect shipments lead to chargebacks and wasted product.
In CPG Operations
A CPG food manufacturer shipping a pallet of various snack bars to a grocery distributor will include a packing slip. This document allows the distributor's receiving team to quickly cross-reference the incoming goods with their purchase order, verifying that all expected flavors and quantities of snack bars have arrived without having to open every box immediately.
Example
A kombucha brand with 8 different SKU flavors ships a mixed case to a small regional grocery chain. The packing slip details exactly which 12-packs of each flavor are in the shipment, allowing the grocery store to easily confirm receipt and stock the shelves, while the kombucha brand can track what left their warehouse.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a packing slip and an invoice?
A packing slip lists the items included in a shipment and their quantities, used for verification upon receipt. An invoice is a bill for the goods or services, detailing prices, payment terms, and the total amount due.
Do I need to include a packing slip for every shipment?
While not always legally required, it's highly recommended for CPG brands. It significantly reduces errors, helps with inventory management for both sender and receiver, and improves customer satisfaction by providing clear documentation of what's inside.
Can a co-packer generate packing slips for my brand?
Yes, co-packers often generate packing slips on behalf of the CPG brands they produce for. It's crucial to ensure their system accurately reflects your brand's product information and shipping requirements to maintain consistency and accuracy.