What is an order ID?¶

An order ID is a merchant or marketplace identifier for a sales order. It is not the processor or bank transaction reference and does not prove successful payment.

Order and payment are not one-to-one¶

One order can have several attempts, split payments, refunds or replacements; one payment can cover several items. The ID can locate customer account, goods, billing, delivery, communications and fulfilment.

Map the separate records¶

Preserve exact value and source, plus amount, time and associated account. Ask merchant for every linked payment reference and amendments, cancellations and fulfilment stages.

The named customer may not control the account, and an order can exist without payment. Delivery, collection, download or redemption may better identify the beneficiary. Report order and financial event separately.