02.02.2023
What is Goods Received Note GRN: Meaning, Purpose, Format

It helps the buyer keep a check on their inventory levels and effectively manage restocking. A GRN typically includes the GRN number, supplier details, delivery date, purchase order reference, product description, quantity received, and remarks on discrepancies. Manually creating GRNs and updating inventory records can take a significant amount of time, especially for businesses handling large shipments. The GRN acts as a reference document for the accounts payable team to validate invoices submitted by suppliers.
- In these circumstances, we use goods received note as the supporting document in order to prevent fraud or error.
- Full truckload (FTL) freight refers to shipments that occupy the entire capacity of a truck trailer.
- It also known as a delivery note, which is used as evidence that goods are delivered and the customers already received.
- Centralized GRN visibilityGet real-time insights into delivery activity—what was received, when, and in what quantity—enabling accurate invoice validation and better collaboration across teams.
- A goods received note (GRN) is an important document that helps all parties involved in a trade transaction.
How does Moon Invoice help with Goods Received Notes?

Ready to petty cash modernize your purchasing process and reduce your AP workload through automation? And when it is, you understandably try to get redress with your suppliers. Say during the process of test running the supplied goods that the procuring organization discovers a hitch or two with the goods delivered to them.
- Damaged goods will be handled in coordination with the supplier for return or credit (obtaining RMAs and credit memos).
- They manage the logistics of moving cargo, which includes loading, transporting, and delivering goods to the specified location.
- While traditional GRN processes have limitations, adopting digital solutions can revolutionize the way businesses manage goods receipt, making workflows faster, more accurate, and highly efficient.
- Once he started using GRNs, he could spot discrepancies right away and resolve them with a single email.
- The supplier provides a delivery note or packing slip, which accompanies the goods and may be referenced in the GRN.
Audit and Compliance
Manual data entry from the GRN into inventory systems can also introduce mistakes. A Goods Received Note (GRN) is an official receipt that documents the delivery of goods from a supplier and its receipt by the buyer. Upon delivery of the goods, the supplier provides a GRN to the buyer to confirm that the goods have been delivered and are satisfactory to all parties. By following these tips, businesses can enhance accuracy, prevent supply chain disruptions, and goods received note ensure smooth procurement operations. For instance, a retail company receiving new mobile phone stock will use the GRN to update its inventory database. This will ensure that the stock count reflects the newly received products.

Accounting Basics: “Goods Received Note (GRN)” Fundamentals Quiz
- Because the delivery date and the invoice date are often different, this document acts as a bridge to confirm what’s shown on the invoice is, in fact, accurate.
- Keeping a proper record is essential in the goods receipt note process to maintain transparency.
- A goods received note is used to confirm that the items delivered match what was ordered.
- More than just a formality, the GRN is a foundational source document within the procure-to-pay workflow.
- They verify the received goods against the purchase order and document any discrepancies before approval.
Suppliers or employees might manipulate records by inflating quantities, forging receipts, or entering false information. This can result in financial losses, inaccurate inventory records, and supply chain disruptions. Businesses that rely on paper-based goods received receipts may face difficulties in storing and retrieving old records. Even digital records need proper organization and secure storage to prevent data loss. Without an efficient document management system, businesses may struggle with Foreign Currency Translation misplaced receipts and missing transaction history. This means the system reflects the exact number of items available for use or sale.

It acts as a crucial communication bridge, connecting the procurement, receiving, and accounts payable departments. This GRN document doesn’t seem to get much attention when discussing procurement or the purchasing process in general. The goods received note helps eliminate errors and ensures a smooth delivery of goods to the customer when later shipments reduce inventory levels.