What is an EDI order?

What is an EDI ORDERS message?

An EDI ORDERS message is the electronic purchase order within EDI. With this message, a buyer places an order digitally with a supplier.

The message is based on the international EDIFACT standard and marks the starting point of the order to cash process. Once received by the supplier, the order is automatically processed in the ERP system. This eliminates manual data entry and significantly reduces errors.

By connecting the EDI platform directly to the ERP system, orders can be exchanged and processed fully automatically. This increases speed, reliability and scalability within the order process.

The ORDERS message therefore forms the basis for subsequent messages such as ORDRSP, DESADV and INVOIC and is an essential component of a fully automated supply chain.

How does an EDI ORDERS message work?

1. The buyer creates a purchase order in the ERP system.
2. The EDI solution converts the order into an EDIFACT ORDERS message.
3. The message is transmitted electronically to the supplier.
4. The supplier automatically processes the message in the ERP system.
5. Optionally, the supplier returns an ORDRSP message as order confirmation.
   

Depending on the agreement, this response can be sent immediately or later.

Who sends and who receives an EDI ORDERS message?

Sender
The buyer, retailer or procurement organisation.

Receiver
The supplier or manufacturer.

What data is contained in an EDI ORDERS message?

An EDIFACT ORDERS message typically contains:

• Order number
• Order date
• Requested delivery date
• Delivery address
• Invoice address
• Contract reference
• Item information such as GTIN
• Quantity and unit
• Pricing information including VAT
• GLN identification details

This structured data ensures seamless ERP processing on both sides.

How do you receive an EDI ORDERS message?

Integrated

Your ERP or WMS is connected to the T2S EDI platform. Orders are exchanged and processed fully automatically. Suitable for organizations with higher order volumes.

Portal

Via the EDI platform portal you can manually receive and process orders within a user friendly SaaS solution.

You can also:

• Create SSCC labels‍
• Manage GTIN items (Global Trade Item Number)
• Manage GLN addresses (Global Location Number)
• Create electronic packing slips (Desadv)

Ideal for lower volumes or phased onboarding.

What is the difference between ORDERS, ORDRSP and APERAK?

ORDERS

The electronic purchase order from buyer to supplier.

ORDRSP

The commercial order response confirming acceptance or changes.

APERAK

A technical acknowledgement confirming correct receipt of the message.

Benefits of using EDI ORDERS

General benefits

• No manual data entry
• Fewer errors
• Faster processing
• Lower administrative costs
• Improved delivery reliability

Benefits for buyers

• Immediate order visibility
• Fewer returns
• Better planning
• Higher supplier reliability

Benefits for suppliers

• More efficient processing
• Fewer corrections
• Improved performance ratings
• Cost reduction

Would you like to process EDI ORDERS securely and efficiently within your organisation?

Whether you choose full ERP integration or a user friendly web portal solution, we support you in setting up and optimising your EDI message flow.

Contact us for a non binding consultation about the possibilities.