ActionEDI is one of the first EDI providers fully integrated with CDW's API.

  In the world of  Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) , the term  trading partner  comes up often. But what exactly does it mean? And why should small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) care? Let’s break it down. Definition: What Is a Trading Partner in EDI? A trading partner in EDI refers to any external organization or entity with whom your business exchanges electronic documents. These partners can include: Retailers (e.g.,  CDW, Amazon, Target ) Distributors and wholesalers Suppliers or manufacturers 3PLs and logistics providers In EDI, trading partners agree on specific document formats and transaction types—like purchase orders, invoices, ASNs (advance ship notices), or UCC-128 shipping labels—to automate their interactions. Why Trading Partners Matter in EDI Trading partners are the reason your EDI system exists. They are the recipients and senders of data that keep your business moving. Here’s why they matter: 1.  Standardization for Automation Each ...