An order letter and a letter of complaint are two distinct types of business letters

that serve different purposes. While both letters are used for communication,
they differ significantly in their content, tone, and objectives.
Order Letter
An order letter is a formal letter used by a company to place an order for goods
or services with a vendor or supplier. The primary purpose of an order letter is to
detail the specific requirements of the order, including the product description,
quantity, payment terms, and shipping instructions. This letter serves as a bridge
between the company and the vendor, ensuring that both parties are on the same
page regarding the transaction.
Key characteristics of an order letter include:
Formal tone: Order letters are typically written in a professional and polite tone,
using formal language and phrases.
Specific details: The letter includes detailed information about the products or
services being ordered, including descriptions, quantities, and specifications.
Clear objectives: The letter clearly states the company’s objectives, such as the
purpose of the order and the expected delivery date.
Payment and shipping information: The letter includes information about
payment terms and shipping instructions to ensure that both parties are aware of
the logistics involved.
Letter of Complaint
A letter of complaint, on the other hand, is a formal letter written by an
individual or organization to express dissatisfaction or grievance about a
product, service, or situation. The primary purpose of a letter of complaint is to
raise concerns and seek a resolution to the issue.
Key characteristics of a letter of complaint include:
Informal tone: While still professional, letters of complaint often have a more
informal tone, as they are written by individuals rather than companies.
Clear description of the issue: The letter clearly describes the problem or issue,
including relevant details such as dates, locations, and people involved.
Specific demands: The letter typically includes specific demands or requests for
resolution, such as a refund, repair, or replacement.
Emphasis on resolution: The letter emphasizes the need for a resolution to the
issue and may include a timeline for the desired outcome.
Key Differences
The main differences between an order letter and a letter of complaint are:
Purpose: An order letter is used to place an order, while a letter of complaint is
used to express dissatisfaction and seek a resolution.
Tone: Order letters are typically formal and polite, while letters of complaint
may have a more informal tone, depending on the context.
Content: Order letters include detailed information about the products or
services being ordered, while letters of complaint focus on describing the issue
and seeking a resolution.
Objective: The objective of an order letter is to ensure that the order is fulfilled
correctly, while the objective of a letter of complaint is to resolve the issue and
restore satisfaction.
In summary, while both order letters and letters of complaint are used for formal
communication, they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.