Final answer:
In the Order Entry/Shipping process, the bill of lading is the document that provides authorization to ship goods to a customer, serving as a legal document detailing the shipment and acting as a receipt upon delivery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The document that represents an independent authorization to ship goods to the customer in the Order Entry/Shipping (OE/S) process is the bill of lading. The bill of lading serves as a legal document between the shipper and the carrier that details the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being shipped. It acts as a receipt of shipment when the goods are delivered at the predetermined destination and typically accompanies the shipped products.
A sales order signifies a customer's intent to purchase products or services. The customer acknowledgement is a response to the sales order, confirming receipt and acceptance of the order. A shipping notice is sent to inform the customer that their goods have been dispatched. However, it's the bill of lading that is crucial for the shipping process, as it is required for the release of the merchandise to the carrier and eventual delivery to the customer.