Abstract: A purchase order processing system allows purchase orders issued from a number of consignees each requiring different processing operations to be processed simply and in an error free manner. The system prompts a user for only that information required by a selected consignee to process a purchase order issued thereby. In processing a purchase order, the system verifies packing information against stored purchase order data. The system automatically generates shipping labels and advance shipping notices in compliance with the diverse requirements of the various consignees. In order to process purchase orders from different consignees, the system of the present invention utilizes nonconsignee specific software that operates in accordance with consignee specific data files that define the purchase order processing requirements of a consignee.