EDI interfaces for order processing

Unite enables the automated, efficient exchange of business documents, from order transmissions and order confirmations to dispatch notifications and invoices. On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about electronic document processing via EDI interfaces. 

Technical integration process

Once all commercial preparations are completed, the technical integration begins and follows three phases: 

Phase 1: Preparation and consultation 

Unite supports you in planning and preparing the technical setup of your interface, clarifying all relevant details, from processes and content specifics to formats and transport protocols.  

Phase 2: Development and quality testing 

Together, we set up a test environment that closely simulates the live environment for document exchange. To minimise waiting times, test data can be exchanged via email in advance. The interface is configured based on these test documents. Additional test cases may be conducted to ensure correct document interpretation. Successful data transmission is also verified. 

Phase 3: Go live 

After successful testing, access is set up in both the Unite live system and on your side, and the interface is activated. Productive data transmission can begin.

Overview of EDI interfaces 

Unite offers the following interfaces for the electronic exchange of business documents: 

Supported formats and transport protocols 

Unite supports various standard formats and transmission methods to ensure machine-readable document processing. Transmission via openTRANS 1.0 is the Unite standard.

Supported formats 

  • openTRANS 1.0 (Unite Standard)  

  • openTRANS 2.1 

  • EDIFACT (e.g. D96A or D01B) 

  • SAP IDOC XML 

  • Others available on request 

Supported protocols 

  • HTTPS (Unite Standard) 

  • FTP 

  • FTPS (client only) 

  • SFTP (client only) 

  • AS2 via HTTP or HTTPS 

  • POP3/SMTP  

  • Others available on request

Custom file formats and interfaces 

Need a different format or transfer method? We're happy to collaborate and develop a custom interface tailored to your requirements. 

Unite order number information 

Many customers pass on their system-specific order number (customer order number) to Unite when placing an order. Please make sure this number appears on the package label, delivery note, and invoice. This ensures clear assignment. 

When a customer order is received, Unite generates its own internal order number. This is overwritten if a customer-specific order number is provided. An order number for the supplier is generated when the order is placed with them. 

The number is split into two parts to reflect both the customer and supplier order numbers. It can be up to 21 characters long, it includes a hyphen, and it may contain special characters from the customer's system. Your system should be able to identify both parts of the order number separately. 

Examples: 

  • 90654321-4610123456 (standard Unite order number) 

  • 5001234567-4610123456 (customer-specific order number) 

  • PO-S@MPL3-4610123456 (customer-specific order number with special characters) 

The customer’s order number is typically transmitted via Unite in the third address line. The Unite order number is transmitted in the ORDER_ID field. 

Contact 

Interested in electronic document processing via EDI? Our Sales Team will gladly advise you and guide you through the entire onboarding process. Please contact your dedicated Unite representative. 

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