Electronic Proof of Delivery (ePOD)

The Electronic Proof of Delivery (ePOD) feature in the GotSurge app ensures seamless and verified deliveries. With this feature, shippers can enter the recipient’s email so they receive a link to endorse and confirm the delivery digitally.

📝 Tip: For deliveries to mother vessels, we recommend inputting the ship master’s email to ensure the rightful person signs the confirmation.

How It Works

1. Enter the Recipient’s Email
   When creating a delivery, shippers can enter the recipient’s email in the designated field. This ensures the recipient receives a link to access and sign the ePOD.
2. Recipient receives the ePOD Link
   Once the delivery is completed, the recipient will receive an email with a secure link to review and sign the proof of delivery.0
3. Recipient Signs the ePOD
   The recipient can endorse the delivery by signing digitally through the provided link.
4. Shipper Receives a Notification
   Once the recipient signs the ePOD, the shipper will receive an email notification confirming that the delivery  has been officially endorsed.

Benefits of the Enhanced ePOD Feature

Automated Delivery Confirmation: No need for manual sharing; recipients receive the ePOD directly via email.

Verified Signatures: Ensures deliveries are acknowledged by the rightful recipient.

Email Notifications: Shippers stay updated on the delivery status.

Improved Efficiency: Streamlines the proof of delivery process, reducing manual follow-ups.

Legally Recognised Digital Signatures: ePOD follows Singapore's Electronic Transactions Act (ETA) 2010, making it a valid and secure form of proof of delivery.

Best Practices

Ensure the correct recipient email is entered to avoid delays in receiving and signing the ePOD.

For mother vessel deliveries, input the ship master’s email to ensure proper authorization.

Encourage recipients to sign promptly to avoid any disputes or delays in confirmation.

💡 Addressing Concerns About Digital Signatures

In the marine industry, many shippers are accustomed to using vessel stamps as a traditional proof of delivery. However, digital signing is now widely accepted and provides a legally binding and tamper-proof confirmation of receipt.

In Singapore, the Electronic Transactions Act (ETA) 2010 governs the use of electronic records and digital signatures, recognising them as legally valid and enforceable. The Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) also complies with the ETA, recognising electronic records and signatures for tax and regulatory compliance, further reinforcing their validity across industries. This demonstrates that digital signatures are not only accepted but are also an essential part of modern business transactions.

With IRAS relying on the ETA for legally recognised documentation, the use of ePOD in logistics ensures compliance with Singapore’s digital governance framework. By moving towards digital proof of delivery, businesses can improve efficiency, reduce paperwork, and maintain a secure, verifiable record of transactions.