Kick off EDI Connectivity for any EDI definition and any EDI partner over X12
Most EDI software is custom-built, but standardized types may be a better fit—saving costs and speeding transactions. EDI enables automated exchange of documents like purchase orders, invoices, and shipping notices, with different types varying by communication method and data format to match industry and partner needs.
Here’s an overview of the most common modern EDI methods, their pros and cons, and the best scenarios for using each.
Direct EDI connects two trading partners directly, using secure protocols such as AS2, SFTP, or FTPS.
Example: A large retailer like Walmart exchanges purchase orders, invoices, and shipping notices directly with suppliers.
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A VAN acts as a secure middleman between you and trading partners, routing, storing, and delivering EDI messages.
Example: A manufacturer uses a VAN to communicate with dozens of partners without direct connections.
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Web EDI uses a browser-based portal to send and receive EDI documents without full system integration.
Example: A small supplier logs into a retailer’s portal to submit invoices or confirm purchase orders.
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Mobile EDI enables EDI document access and updates via mobile apps — perfect for on-the-go use.
Example: A logistics manager views and confirms EDI 856 shipping notices from the field.
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Cloud EDI is a subscription service where the provider hosts the infrastructure, integrations, and compliance tools.
Example: An e-commerce brand integrates its ERP or Shopify store with a cloud EDI platform to send EDI 850 and 810 documents automatically.
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With managed EDI, all operations — setup, mapping, onboarding, monitoring — are handled by a third-party provider.
Example: A manufacturer outsources its EDI processes to a specialist who manages X12/EDIFACT formats and retailer requirements.
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| Type | Delivery Model | User Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct EDI | Point-to-point | Advanced IT teams | High-volume large enterprises |
| EDI via VAN | Through 3rd-party hub | All business sizes | Multi-partner environments |
| Web EDI | Browser-based | Entry-level users | SMEs and suppliers |
| Mobile EDI | App-based | On-the-go professionals | Logistics, field staff |
| Cloud-based EDI | Hosted (SaaS) | All levels | Growing businesses & integrations |
| EDI Outsourcing | Fully managed | Non-technical businesses | Companies lacking in-house support |
The best EDI type depends on your transaction volume, partner requirements, budget, and technical resources. Direct EDI offers control, VANs simplify multi-partner setups, Web/Mobile EDI suit smaller operations, Cloud EDI provides scalability, and Managed EDI removes technical burdens entirely.
Do you need to integrate with your ERP, CRM, or warehouse system?
Do you prefer low upfront cost or long-term control over recurring fees?
How many EDI transactions do you handle per day/week/month?
Do you work with a few or many trading partners with varied tech capabilities?
Do you need EDI access from any location, or mobile responsiveness?
Do you need secure, encrypted data transmission with audit logs?
We provide a web-based platform to translate, validate and transfer EDI files via AS2, and support for any EDI definition and any EDI partner over X12. You can read received EDIs like purchase orders and load tenders in human-friendly formats, as well as generate EDIs like PO acknowledgements, shipment notices, invoices, shipment statuses and send them over AS2.
We offer comprehensive suite of AS2 EDI products; the MFT Gateway, which handles EDI transmissions over AS2 and SFTP protocols, and the EDI Generator, which handles EDI content.
MFT Gateway can transmit literally anything (even a video clip or a regulatory submission), and EDI Generator can process virtually any EDI document (as long as the specification or schema is available)—even including generic documents that are originating or being exchanged outside of MFT Gateway. But of course, the real power comes when the two platforms operate in unison.
EDI Generator simplifies your workflow by managing EDI file processing and AS2 transmission—all without multiple software installations. Request a demo and we ll walk you through how it can empower your business to take full control of your EDI.
We’re here to walk you through every step.
Seamlessly connect with trading partners while ensuring full EDI compliance for
streamlined and secure data exchange.
