What is a Packing Slip – What is it, Importance and Much More 

Picture of June Andria

June Andria

As the Content Manager at NextSmartShip, I specialize in crafting compelling narratives and innovative content that engages our audience and drives our brand forward. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, I oversee the creation of diverse materials, including insightful blogs, dynamic digital content, and creative outputs.

Picture of June Andria

June Andria

As the Content Manager at NextSmartShip, I specialize in crafting compelling narratives and innovative content that engages our audience and drives our brand forward. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, I oversee the creation of diverse materials, including insightful blogs, dynamic digital content, and creative outputs.

Table of Contents

When it comes to shipments and orders, there are a lot of things that need to be done to ensure that the delivery is done correctly. Among the list of different things, it is important for the companies to have a packing slip ready and on the orders, which will help to deliver the package to the right door. 

It is crucial for businesses to have these documents with all of their packages so that they can facilitate the delivery companies and also help with the transportation of the order. In this article, we have mentioned everything that you need to know about a packing slip. 

Table of Content

Part 1. What is a Packing Slip

A packing slip is a document that helps keep a record of the package. This slip has all the information about the person who placed the order, such as their name, phone number, address, the items in the package, and even the order number. 

Packing slips are used in fulfillment centers and by businesses to ensure that items are delivered on time to the right customer. Having a packing slip can help delivery companies reduce delivery mistakes and enhance customer satisfaction. 

Not only this, but it also helps the sender to have the correct information on the merchandise and things that leave their warehouses. Hence, this shows that packing slips play a vital role when it comes to delivering the goods. 

Part 2. Packing Slip Example & Explanation

There is different information present on these packing slips. Below, we have mentioned some of the most important things that you will surely find on every packing slip. 

Address

The first and most important thing on these packing slips is the address of the receiver. The business needs to put the correct address on these packing slips so that the delivery company can work efficiently and deliver the goods to the right place. 

Having the right address information on the packages also ensures that the delivery is done on time and reduces the chances of missing items. This is why, when making the packing slips, it is imperative to put the correct address where the order needs to be delivered. 

Slip Number

Another thing you’ll see on the packing slips is the slip number. When there are multiple packages for the same order, the slip number can be very beneficial for keeping track of all the products that you are sending. The slip number allows the delivery company to identify that the different packages are part of the same order and that they can deliver everything together. 

This helps the business keep proper records of the merchandise and also helps keep records of the orders. On the other hand, it makes it very easy for the shipment company to organize the orders and deliver them to the customers at the right time. 

SKU

Stock Keeping Unit, or more commonly called SKU, is a code comprising eight alphanumeric digits. This code is not important for customers; however, it is crucial for sellers. This code helps the business keep track of what is going out of their inventory. Customers also use SKU to lodge a complaint regarding an order. 

Notes

Sometimes, the packing slip can include notes regarding the parcel. This means that the seller can provide information such as “Handle with care” if the package is fragile or if the customer has asked to send a note to the place they want to deliver it. 

Part 3. Packing Slip Template

When it comes to the packing slip, you will find a lot of different information here, such as the address, order number, order date, and a few other details. Below is a packing slip template that will help you get a better idea of what a packing slip looks like. 

Box NumberProduct SkuQuantitiesGuidance && Warning
1sku-a1Box 1 contains 1pcs sku-a and 2pcs sku-b.
1sku-b2Box 1 contains 1pcs sku-a and 2pcs sku-b.
2sku-c1Box 2 contains 1pcs sku-c.
Fill the packing list from the row 5.

In the above picture, you can see the dates mentioned, the SKU for all the products, and the quantities present in the package. This will help keep track of all the information and improve customer satisfaction. 

Part 4. Why Packing Slips Are Important

why packing slips are important

Now, you might be wondering why these slips are so important and why you need them. Below are some of the major reasons why these packing slips are so important in a business. 

Ensuring everything is in the Shipment 

The first reason why you need to have the packing slip is to ensure everything is in the package. Before sealing the box and sending it off for delivery, having a document on which all the information is present can help you double-check everything properly. This will ensure that the entire order is present and the customer will get everything that they need. 

Helps with Tracking the Order

Another reason these packing slips are beneficial is that they can help with tracking the orders. If a package gets damaged during delivery, it is easy for the customers and also for the shipment carriers to report. Businesses can use the SKU number to track the package and the items that are in it. It will make the entire refunding and resending process easier. 

To Help with the Customs

The packing slips are also important for international packages. For customs, it is important for the companies to put the packing slip on the packages so that the customer can estimate the value of the item. This will help them understand what kind of products are present in the package, and it will make the entire process quick and simple. 

Quick Delivery 

These packing slips make it easy for delivery companies to ship orders quickly. The transporter can organize the packages according to the address mentioned on the package. If the delivery is quick and smooth, then the customers will be happy, and the customer satisfaction rate will increase. 

Allows to Manage Inventory 

With the SKU code on the package, it will be easy for the business to manage its inventory. They can list the items, make sure they have enough backup items, and determine whether they need to order more goods. Thus, having the packing slip can be beneficial and important for businesses as well. 

Acts as a Proof 

The packing slip is an important document that both the seller and the buyer use. It will be proof in case there are any discrepancies or a refund from the buyer’s side, so the sellers can also show them the evidence that the parcel was delivered and will be with them at any moment. 

Conclusion

The packing slips are essential documents for both the buyers and the sellers. This ensures that the delivery is done on time without any delays. These slips have all the necessary information, such as the address, the amount, the order date, the order number, and even the quantity. Hence, we hope this article was beneficial for you and that you learned more about packing slips and their importance in logistics. You should also check out NextSmartShip if you are trying to enhance your shipping services and get the best shipping rates. 

NSS Million Dollar Acceleration Plan

X

Master 2024 Peak Season with Winning Strategies

Explore our essential guide to uncover peak season challenges and discover how to get prepared.