diff --git a/tailbone/api/batch/receiving.py b/tailbone/api/batch/receiving.py
index 284d8fdb..57501a7d 100644
--- a/tailbone/api/batch/receiving.py
+++ b/tailbone/api/batch/receiving.py
@@ -83,7 +83,7 @@ class ReceivingBatchViews(APIBatchView):
         data['mode'] = self.enum.PURCHASE_BATCH_MODE_RECEIVING
 
         # assume "receive from PO" if given a PO key
-        if data['purchase_key']:
+        if data.get('purchase_key'):
             data['receiving_workflow'] = 'from_po'
 
         return super().create_object(data)