Empfangsakt

Empfangsakt is a term used in German-speaking contexts to denote a formal act or document that confirms the receipt of goods, notices, or other items by a designated recipient. It serves as evidence that the recipient has been given access to the item and accepts its contents, conditions, and the date of receipt. The concept can apply in various settings, including postal services, logistics, commerce, and legal procedures.

In practical use, an Empfangsakt may take the form of a physical receipt, an electronic confirmation, or a signed delivery note. Typical elements include the recipient’s identity, a description of the delivered item, the date and time of receipt, the method of delivery, and the signature of the recipient or an authorized agent. In digital contexts, it can involve electronic signatures, timestamping, or secure verification codes. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with related concepts such as Empfangsbescheinigung (receipt certificate) or Lieferschein (delivery note), depending on the jurisdiction and industry.

The legal and practical significance of an Empfangsakt lies in its evidentiary value. It can trigger contractual or statutory deadlines, confirm the transfer of risk, or establish that a party has been duly informed. In disputes, a valid Empfangsakt may be decisive for determining whether delivery occurred, the scope of obligations, or the timing of a claim. Data protection and archival requirements also influence how Empfangsakte are stored and processed.

See also: Empfangsbescheinigung, Zustellung, Empfangsprotokoll, Lieferschein.