The short definition
Shopify PunchOut is a procurement-to-commerce connection, not a second checkout page. A buyer launches the supplier catalog from its procurement system, shops on Shopify, and returns the selected cart to procurement. The buyer then applies its internal approval process before the approved purchase order reaches the supplier.
How the flow works
- 01
The buyer launches
The procurement system opens a buyer-specific supplier session.
- 02
The buyer shops
Products and quantities are selected in the supplier's Shopify or Shopify Plus catalog.
- 03
The cart returns
The selected cart goes back to procurement for review and approval.
- 04
The PO arrives
After approval, the purchase order is sent through the buyer's configured process and the supplier can create the Shopify order.
What Shopify contributes
Shopify remains the supplier's commerce catalog and store operation. PunchOut Central adds the connection layer around that store, including buyer-specific catalog access, cXML and OCI workflows, purchase-order handoff and transaction visibility.
What Shopify PunchOut does not mean
- It does not mean every Shopify store has a native procurement connection without configuration.
- It does not mean a returned cart is already an approved order.
- It does not mean every buyer uses the same credentials, protocol details or invoice requirements.
Questions to clarify
No. This article explains the buyer question or workflow. Use the linked integration page for PunchOut Central implementation scope.
No. The buyer system, credentials, document requirements and approval process vary by buyer environment and must be confirmed during onboarding.