If you are entering North American retail for the first time, EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is one of the first technical requirements you will encounter. Almost every major US and Canadian retailer requires it, and failure to comply can delay your first order, trigger chargebacks, or get your vendor account suspended before it is even active.
EDI is the standardized electronic exchange of business documents between you and your retail partners. Instead of emailing purchase orders and invoices, everything flows through a structured system using standardized formats. The core EDI transactions you will use are the 850 (purchase order), 856 (advance ship notice), and 810 (invoice).
You have three main paths: build in-house EDI capability (expensive), use a third-party EDI provider (cost-effective for smaller vendors), or work with a 3PL that includes EDI services. For brands new to North American retail, a third-party provider like SPS Commerce or TrueCommerce is typically the right starting point.
Every retailer requires a testing and certification process before you can go live on their EDI system. This typically takes 2 to 6 weeks and involves sending test transactions until both parties confirm everything works correctly. Do not underestimate this timeline, as it can significantly delay your first purchase order.
The most common EDI errors that trigger chargebacks include ASN not sent within the required window after shipment, carton labels that do not match ASN data, delivery outside the appointment window, and incorrect UPC or item quantities. Getting these right from day one sets the foundation for a chargeback-free vendor relationship. MOART guides clients through the full vendor setup process to ensure nothing slows down that first sale.
