What is a packing slip?
A packing slip (also called a packing list or delivery note) goes inside the package and lists the items and quantities that were shipped. The customer uses it to check that everything arrived; your warehouse uses it to pick and pack the order. Unlike an invoice, a packing slip normally shows no prices – which matters when the parcel is a gift or is received by someone other than the buyer.
Packing slip vs invoice vs shipping label
- Packing slip – inside the box; items and quantities, no prices.
- Invoice – sent to the buyer; prices, tax and payment terms.
- Shipping label – outside the box; addresses and carrier barcode.
What to include
- Order number and ship date
- Ship-from (your business) and ship-to addresses
- Each item's description or SKU and the quantity shipped
- Backordered or missing items, if any, noted clearly
- Return instructions and a contact for problems
The slip prints space for "Packed by" and "Received by" signatures, which helps with B2B deliveries and proof of delivery.
Tips for e-commerce sellers
Use the same order number on the packing slip, the invoice and the shipping label so customer queries are easy to trace. Add a short thank-you message and your return policy in the notes – it costs nothing and reduces "where is my refund?" emails. If you ship to businesses, ask whether their receiving team needs the purchase order number on the slip.
Frequently asked questions
Does a packing slip show prices?
Usually not. Packing slips list items and quantities only, so they can be read by whoever receives the parcel. Send prices on the invoice instead.
Is a packing slip the same as a delivery note?
Yes, in practice the terms are used interchangeably. Some businesses call it a packing list or dispatch note.
Where do I put the packing slip?
Inside the box, on top of the items, or in a clear 'documents enclosed' pouch stuck to the outside of the parcel.
Can I use this for partial shipments?
Yes. List only the items in this shipment and add a note such as 'Remaining 2 units ship separately' in the notes field.
