EDI-Logistics

Electronic Data Interchange between logistics partners

The solution is designed for companies that provide logistics services (3PL), as well as for organizations that use third-party logistics providers for warehousing and transportation of goods, or that operate their own transport for performing logistics operations.

EDI-Logistics

Electronic Data Interchange between logistics partners

The solution is designed for companies that provide logistics services (3PL), as well as for organizations that use third-party logistics providers for warehousing and transportation of goods, or that operate their own transport for performing logistics operations.

Why is this needed

Efficiency

Reducing document processing time is achieved through a one-time entry of product data into the system. Once the initial information is entered, it is automatically enriched and transformed into various types of documents, which are then exchanged between partners’ ERP systems without manual intervention. This ensures high processing speed, minimizes the risk of errors, and enhances transparency in collaboration.

Accuracy and Security

Process automation reduces the likelihood of human error, while the use of specialized transport protocols ensures the reliability and confidentiality of information exchange between partners.

Service Quality

Accelerated document transmission significantly enhances the responsiveness of logistics operations — from goods receipt to warehousing, order picking, and transportation. This directly contributes to improving the overall quality of logistics services.

How It Works

 

Warehouse (WH) refers to the process of storing a partner’s goods at a logistics facility for the purpose of subsequent order picking and transportation. Partner suppliers deliver products to the warehouse, where they are placed into storage. When a transport request is received, the order is assembled and delivery is organized to final recipients — for example, retail stores. This approach enables centralized logistics management, improves order processing efficiency, and ensures timely delivery. The solution covers two core processes: procurement and sales of goods.

Procurement Process

Sales Process

Procurement and Delivery to Warehouse

  • Delivery of goods to the logistics warehouse is preceded by an advance notification via the IFTMAN document. The partner company sends an electronic IFTMAN document from its ERP system to the logistics operator, containing details about the product assortment, volume, and delivery schedule. This enables the warehouse to prepare in advance for receipt, optimize storage allocation, and accelerate the processing of incoming goods.

  • Upon receipt of goods at the warehouse, the logistics company sends the partner an IFTMANRSP message, confirming the delivery of that shipment.

Sales Process

  • The partner (seller) initiates a delivery order by sending an INSDES message to the logistics company. This message is generated in the partner’s ERP system based on one of the following documents: an invoice, a way bill, or an order.

  • A delivery order can be sent directly to the recipient as an INSDES message, or initially prepared as a draft INSDES. This approach allows additional details — such as the number of boxes, pallets, and other shipment parameters — to be added before the final message is sent to the recipient. Using a draft version helps ensure completeness and accuracy of shipping instructions, improves coordination between partners, and reduces the risk of discrepancies during delivery.

  • The INSDES message can be addressed either to the logistics company or to the POD (Proof of Delivery) application used by the driver.

  • After the order is picked at the warehouse, the logistics company sends the seller an INSDESRSP message, informing them which specific goods have been prepared for shipment.

Additional Capabilities

  • In addition to automating the procurement and sales processes, the system can be further enhanced by configuring the following reports: INVPT (Inventory Report) and STOMVT (Stock Movement Report).

  • When a complete logistics cycle is in place, it becomes possible to organize automatic transmission of documents directly to the logistics company.

How Cross-Docking Process Works

 Cross Docking (CD) is a delivery method without storage. The partner delivers products to a transit warehouse, from which the logistics company promptly distributes them to destination points (e.g., retail stores). In an alternative scenario, the logistics provider may collect the goods directly from the partner’s warehouse.

 

Capabilities

  • The partner (also the seller) sends a delivery order (INSDES) from their accounting system to the logistics company.

  • The INSDES message can either be sent directly to the recipient or initially prepared as a draft. This approach allows for the inclusion of additional details — such as the number of boxes, pallets, or other shipment parameters — before the final message is dispatched to the recipient.

  • After submitting all delivery orders, the seller can print a consolidated delivery note summarizing all shipments, as well as labels for each box or pallet.

  • Additionally, the logistics provider can print invoices on your behalf for delivery along with the goods.

Frequently Asked Questions

To implement the EDI-Logistics solution, you need to identify the key business processes you wish to automate and contact the technical team for initial integration setup.

You can continue using your current provider for financial documents while managing logistics processes through a separate EDI channel. The solution supports flexible integration with multiple service providers.

No, the solution is compatible with most modern ERP and accounting systems. Integration is done via standard interfaces, so there’s no need to replace your existing system.

You can analyze your current logistics costs, order processing time, and error rates. Implementing EDI-Logistics helps reduce manual work, speed up processes, and improve transparency — all of which can be expressed in measurable indicators.

The solution has been successfully deployed in collaboration with several major logistics operators. You can find the current list of partners here.

Both solutions can work together: EDI-Logistics handles the exchange of structured messages, while Paperless Logistics manages the digital processing of accompanying documents. Integration enables a fully paperless logistics workflow.

The cost depends on the scope of integration and the volume of documents. To get an accurate quote, we recommend scheduling an online meeting. Based on your processes, a solution description and personalized commercial offer will be prepared.

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