EDI X12 and EDIFACT: What’s the difference?

In the world of EDI, there are two standards that facilitate the exchange of information between suppliers and trading partners: X12 and EDIFACT. Ultimately, these standards define EDI documents. The main difference is actually pretty simple: X12 is the preferred EDI standard in North America while EDIFACT is used throughout Europe and Asia.

As your business expands globally, you’ll eventually hear about EDIFACT. And if you are already familiar with EDI for your company, your first question will probably be: how is EDIFACT different from X12, the EDI format used throughout North America?

As mentioned, X12 is the EDI standard in North America. It uses three digit codes to identify EDI documents. X12 was created by the Accredited Standards Committee in 1979. For brands doing business with trading partners in North America, X12 will almost always be the EDI standard used.

Commonly applied throughout Europe and Asia, EDIFACT codes consist of six letters. The standard was developed by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe in 1986. For European and Asian based brands doing business with trading partners in those regions, EDIFACT will almost always be the EDI standard used.

Virtually every EDI document has an X12 code and an EDIFACT code. The chart below illustrates:

North American based brands that develop relationships with European trading partners will likely find themselves having to use both X12 for the domestic market and EDIFACT for the international efforts. The same works in reverse: European brands expanding into North America will likely have to use X12 for those relationships.

We built our award-winning EDI platform, Lingo, to comply with both X12 and EDIFACT. Whether you’re a North American based brand looking to expand into Europe or Asia or a European or Asian based brand expanding into North America, Lingo ensures that you’re compliant and able to employ the standards your trading partners require – wherever they are.

Need more EDI standards guidance? We’re here to help. Reach out to [email protected] or call 201-731-1800. 

Frequently Asked Questions About X12 vs. EDIFACT

What is the main difference between X12 and EDIFACT?
X12 is the standard used for EDI transactions in North America, while EDIFACT is used primarily in Europe and Asia. They follow different formatting structures but serve the same purpose—facilitating electronic communication between trading partners.

What do X12 and EDIFACT stand for?
X12 refers to the standard developed by the Accredited Standards Committee in 1979. EDIFACT stands for Electronic Data Interchange for Administration, Commerce and Transport, and was developed by the UN Economic Commission for Europe in 1986.

Do X12 and EDIFACT documents represent the same transactions?
Yes. While the document codes differ (e.g., X12 850 = EDIFACT ORDERS), the types of transactions—like purchase orders, invoices, shipping notices, and inventory updates—are largely the same.

Can my EDI software support both standards?
Yes. Platforms like eZCom’s Lingo are built to support both X12 and EDIFACT standards, making it easier for businesses to work with trading partners globally.

What happens if my brand expands internationally?
If you’re a North American brand expanding into Europe or Asia, you’ll likely need to support EDIFACT. Likewise, European or Asian brands entering North America will typically need to support X12. It’s common for growing brands to use both standards simultaneously.

Is one EDI standard better than the other?
Not necessarily. Both X12 and EDIFACT are well-established and widely used. The choice typically depends on your geographic location and the requirements of your trading partners.

How can I tell which standard my trading partner uses?
Your trading partner will specify their required EDI standard—either X12 or EDIFACT—during the onboarding process. eZCom helps ensure compliance with either format.