# EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> The moment a purchase order, customs declaration, or advance shipping notice is triggered, EDI takes over: structured business messages travel automatically from one system to another, bypassing manual entry and paper entirely.

The moment a purchase order, customs declaration, or advance shipping notice is triggered, EDI takes over: structured business messages travel automatically from one system to another, bypassing manual entry and paper entirely. EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) standardises these messages according to formats such as UN/EDIFACT or ANSI X12, enabling software across different companies and authorities to exchange data without misinterpretation. In freight forwarding and customs, EDI underpins the transmission of bills of lading, packing lists, customs entries, and status updates. Data captured once flows along the entire supply chain – no rekeying, no transcription errors. Unlike modern REST APIs, EDI traditionally relies on scheduled batch transfers, yet it remains mandatory or deeply embedded in regulated customs environments worldwide.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_data_interchange](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_data_interchange)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 118 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_data_interchange |

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*Logistics Glossary — Freight Academy: [https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/edi-electronic-data-interchange](https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/edi-electronic-data-interchange)*

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