EDI vs API: What Growing Businesses Should Really Use? | ActionEDI
EDI vs API: What Growing Businesses Should Really Use?
Choosing between EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) and API (Application Programming Interface) can feel like picking between two different languages for business communication. If you’re scaling operations or onboarding retail partners like CDW, Target, or Amazon, the wrong choice can cost you time, money, and relationships.
What is EDI?
EDI is a long-standing digital standard used by businesses to exchange structured documents—like purchase orders and invoices—between systems. It’s highly reliable, especially in industries with strict compliance needs.
What is API?
API is a newer, flexible way for applications to communicate in real time. APIs are fast, customizable, and widely used in modern SaaS tools and platforms. But they often require custom development and come with hidden complexity for B2B compliance workflows.
Key Differences: EDI vs API
| Feature | EDI | API |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Standardized (X12, EDIFACT) | Flexible JSON/XML |
| Speed | Batch-based (slower) | Real-time |
| Compliance | Built for B2B (GS1, UCC-128) | Needs customization for compliance |
| Integration | Plug-and-play with retail/ERP | Requires development work |
| Cost | Flat-rate with ActionEDI | Potential for hidden API call fees |
When to Choose EDI
- You sell to large retailers (CDW, Target, Amazon, etc.)
- You want label compliance (GS1/UCC-128)
- You use QuickBooks or Sage and need automation
- You don’t want to build a custom integration team
When to Use API (or Combine It with EDI)
- You already have an in-house dev team
- You want fast data exchange between internal systems
- You’re building a custom app that talks to your supply chain
The Best of Both Worlds with ActionEDI
ActionEDI gives you the flexibility to use EDI, API, or a hybrid—depending on your partner requirements and internal tools.
- ✅ Email PO Automation—turn incoming emails into EDI documents
- ✅ QuickBooks + Sage integration—plug-and-play
- ✅ GS1-compliant label generation (UCC-128/ZPL)
- ✅ REST API access if you want to build around EDI
Whether you need real-time speed or structured compliance, ActionEDI makes sure you don’t have to choose between tech and tradition.
Conclusion: What Should You Use?
If you’re growing and selling B2B, EDI is still your foundation. APIs can enhance your internal agility, but for order automation, retailer compliance, and scalable workflows, EDI wins on reliability and cost.
? Learn more about EDI vs API integration on our blog
?️ Try our free EDI Decoder Tool
? support@actionedi.com | ? +1 (469) 956-5715
FAQs
Is API replacing EDI?
No. API adds speed and flexibility, but most B2B workflows still rely on EDI due to standardization and compliance requirements.
Can I use both EDI and API together?
Yes. ActionEDI supports hybrid integration so you can use APIs internally and EDI for trading partner compliance.
What’s the easiest way to start?
Start with EDI using ActionEDI. No setup fees, real human support, and automation tools that work with your stack.
