Proof of Collection and Proof of Delivery, explained without the jargon.
POC and POD are the two records that evidence a vehicle movement: one created when the vehicle is collected, one when it is delivered. This page explains the terms, how they relate to ePOD, and what changes when you move from paper to digital.
Proof of Collection is the record made at the pick-up point. It documents the condition of the vehicle before it moves: the walk-round inspection, photographs, any damage already present, and a signature from whoever released it. It exists to establish a baseline.
Proof of Delivery is the record made at the destination. It documents who received the vehicle, when, where, and in what condition. In general logistics a POD may be nothing more than a signature; in vehicle transport it should mirror the collection inspection so the two can be compared.
POC is created at the start of the movement, POD at the end.
POC establishes the baseline condition; POD confirms receipt and the condition on arrival.
POC is signed by the party releasing the vehicle, POD by the party receiving it.
Neither record proves much alone. Their value comes from being directly comparable.
ePOD stands for electronic Proof of Delivery — a POD captured in an app instead of on paper. The term comes from general haulage and parcel delivery, where the delivery signature is the main event. Vehicle transport uses the same technology but needs it at both ends, with far more emphasis on condition evidence.
Paper carries a tick box and a signature. Digital carries photographs, damage detail, a timestamp and a location.
Paper lives in the cab until it is returned. Digital is attached to the job as soon as it syncs.
A structured digital workflow covers the same points on every job; a paper sheet depends on the driver's diligence.
Paper has to be collected, scanned and filed. Digital produces the finished report automatically.
Handwriting in the rain is a recurring problem that digital capture removes.
What does POC stand for?
Proof of Collection — the record of a vehicle's condition and handover at the point it is collected.
What does POD stand for?
Proof of Delivery — the record confirming who received the vehicle, when and in what condition.
What is the difference between POC and POD?
POC is made at collection and sets the baseline condition; POD is made at delivery. Comparing the two is how condition disputes are resolved.
Is ePOD the same as POD?
ePOD is a POD captured electronically rather than on paper. The record is the same thing; the method of capture and the quality of the evidence differ.
How does digital proof of delivery work?
The driver completes the delivery record in an app: inspection, photographs, any damage, and a signature on the device. The app records the time and location, and produces the finished proof document automatically.
TransportMate captures both records in the driver app and produces the finished report for you.