> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.p4.software/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.p4.software/english-2/inbound/inbound/contracts.md).

# Contracts

Contracts are formal agreements registered in the system that link the company with clients or customs agents for the management of imports, exports, and logistics.

Each contract documents:

* Commercial conditions
* Rates and fees
* Payment terms
* Included services

All contracts comply with local regulations and customs procedures.

***

## Creating a New Contract

To create a new contract:

1. Click **New**.
2. The system will prompt you to enter:
   * **Importer**
   * **Warehouse**
   * **Contract Date**

> 📷 Screenshot: New contract creation window showing the importer, warehouse, and date fields.

When a new contract is created, it is initially set to **"Draft"** status. The system automatically opens the detail view so you can complete the contract information.

***

## Contract Detail View

The contract detail view allows you to enter, review, and update all the data required to fully register and link the contract.

Key fields include:

| Field                    | Description                                                          |
| ------------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Contract Number**      | Generated automatically by the system's sequence                     |
| **Contract Date**        | Date the contract was created                                        |
| **Authorized Date**      | Date the contract was formally authorized                            |
| **Authorization Number** | Official authorization reference                                     |
| **Reference**            | Internal or external reference number                                |
| **Transport Method**     | Sea or air freight                                                   |
| **Associated Costs**     | Transport and handling costs                                         |
| **Contract Lines**       | Products included in the contract (can be imported/exported in bulk) |

> 📷 Screenshot: Contract detail view showing all fields and the contract lines table with included products.

***

## Releasing and Previewing the Contract

Once the contract information is complete, it can be **released**.

After release, you can generate a preview of the contract via the **Contract Report**, which shows:

* Products
* Dates
* Authorizations
* References
* Transport method
* Costs

> 📷 Screenshot: Contract Report preview showing a formatted contract document with all details.

***

## Approving the Contract

{% hint style="danger" %}
**This operation is irreversible.** Once a contract is approved, it cannot be reverted to Draft status.
{% endhint %}

To approve the contract, click the **Approve** button.

The contract status will change from **"Draft"** to **"Approved"**.

After approval:

* The contract becomes visible in **P4 Warehouse** with its associated **purchase order number**.
* Full traceability and control of the contract is maintained across both systems.

> 📷 Screenshot: Approved contract view showing status change and purchase order number in P4 Warehouse.

***

## Starting the Receiving Process in P4 Warehouse

Once the contract is approved, go to **P4 Warehouse** to begin receiving the merchandise:

1. Navigate to the **Entry** module.
2. Open the **Purchase Orders** section.
3. Locate the purchase order associated with the approved contract.
4. Initiate the receiving process.

> 📷 Screenshot: P4 Warehouse Entry module showing the Purchase Orders list with the linked order.