Common EDI Issues and How They Get Resolved

Electronic Data Interchange, or EDI, is how brands and trading partners (retailers) communicate. It’s how they transfer data such as invoices, purchase orders and shipping notices. Done right, EDI reduces manual errors, speeds up processing times and, generally, strengthens the relationship between brand and trading partner.

But sometimes there are issues. Here are some of the most common.

Occasionally, we see brands attempt to handle EDI on their own. They’re almost always met with setup and mapping challenges – especially between systems that EDI has to integrate with.

This immediate challenge can quickly derail processes and requirements. Trading partners will have little patience for delays and inaccuracies.

The solution? EDI software that simplifies the mapping process with pre-built integrations and a streamlined setup process that guides users every step of the way. Layer on a dedicated support team for troubleshooting and EDI setup and mapping will become a piece of cake.

Among trading partners, EDI standards change all the time. This can create somewhat of a moving target for brands, making it difficult for them to maintain compliance.

Brands can stay on top of ever-changing EDI standards across trading partners by ensuring that their EDI systems are continuously updated. Automated compliance checks also help monitor for changes and compliance risks.

Standards compliance with trading partners becomes much easier for brands when they have modern EDI software in place.

Data discrepancies, incomplete data or incorrect data transmissions are all too common for brands tackling EDI on their own. These shortcomings can lead to chargebacks and strained trading partner relationships.

But with the right EDI software in place, data inaccuracies can become a thing of the past. Brands should make sure that their EDI software is equipped with error-detection and alert systems, regular data validation checks and comprehensive reporting tools to identify and resolve issues quickly.

In today’s data-driven environment, a brand’s EDI solution must integrate with its other business systems, most notably its ERP and warehouse management system (WMS).

For brands that experience difficulty with key EDI integrations, they can resolve them by exploring pre-built connectors within their other systems. They can also go with EDI software that bridges the gap between disparate systems with automated workflows.

Many brands struggle to manage spikes in EDI transaction volume during periods of growth or seasonality.

In response, brands should consider EDI software that is cloud-based and capable of handling transaction volume surges without running the risk of performance degradation. Integrating the EDI solution with other business systems (i.e., ERP, WMS) can also help ensure data accuracy in these situations. So too can pre-defined automations and rules within the EDI solution.

EDI requirements can present a variety of challenges for brands. But with the right EDI software in place, those challenges can often be solved quickly or avoided entirely.

The results? Accurate data. Streamlined processes. Happy trading partners.

Frequently Asked Questions About EDI Issues

What are the most common EDI setup issues?
The most common setup issues involve mapping data between systems and configuring the EDI solution to meet retailer requirements. These issues can cause delays and data inaccuracies.

How can brands avoid setup and mapping problems?
Using EDI software with pre-built integrations, guided setup, and dedicated support helps simplify mapping and minimize errors during onboarding.

Why do EDI compliance standards keep changing?
Retailers frequently update their compliance requirements to improve efficiency or adopt new technology. This makes it essential for brands to stay current with each partner’s unique specifications.

What happens if data errors occur in EDI?
Data errors like incomplete or incorrect fields can lead to chargebacks or shipment delays. Reliable EDI software can detect and flag errors early, so issues can be corrected before they reach the trading partner.

What systems should EDI software integrate with?
At a minimum, EDI should integrate with your ERP, WMS, and inventory systems to ensure data flows correctly across the business and avoids duplication or conflict.

How can brands handle increased transaction volume?
Brands should choose a scalable, cloud-based EDI solution that can handle volume spikes without performance issues. Automation and integration also help manage growth.

Can all EDI issues be avoided with the right software?
While no system is perfect, modern EDI software can prevent or quickly resolve most issues with built-in error detection, compliance checks, system integration, and automation.