Target EDI Onboarding Guide for New Suppliers
Getting EDI compliant with Target requires the right documents, a properly configured setup, and passing their compliance testing. Here's exactly what new suppliers need to know.
Becoming a Target supplier is a significant milestone. But before you can start shipping orders, you need to pass one key requirement: EDI compliance.
Target has a thorough onboarding process — and knowing what to expect makes all the difference between a smooth go-live and weeks of delays.
What EDI documents does Target require?
Target uses EDI for all supplier transactions. Required documents:
- 850 — Purchase Order
- 855 — Purchase Order Acknowledgment
- 856 — Advance Ship Notice (ASN)
- 810 — Invoice
- 997 — Functional Acknowledgment
All documents must follow Target's specific EDI implementation guide — not just generic X12 standards.
Target's key EDI requirements
PO Acknowledgment (855)
Target expects a 855 for every purchase order received, sent quickly — typically within one business day. Delays or mismatches with the original PO cause compliance issues.
ASN accuracy and timing (856)
Your ASN must be sent before the shipment arrives at the distribution center. It must include correct carton counts, SSCC-18 barcode labels, and accurate item details matching the PO exactly.
Invoice matching (810)
Invoices must match the purchase order — quantities, unit prices, and item numbers. Any discrepancy can result in short-payment or a compliance flag.
Compliance testing
Target runs multiple test cycles before approving suppliers to go live. All required document types must pass their validation rules with no errors.
The Target EDI onboarding process
Receive Target's EDI implementation guide and trading partner setup instructions from your category manager or onboarding contact.
Set up document mappings for all required transaction sets (850, 855, 856, 810, 997) according to Target's specifications.
Configure your AS2 or VAN connection. Target supports both, though AS2 is more common for direct EDI trading partners.
Complete compliance testing with Target's EDI team. Send test documents, receive feedback, fix errors, and repeat until all tests pass.
Go live. Once certified, you'll start receiving live purchase orders and your EDI exchange becomes fully automated.
DIY or traditional
4–8 weeks
Managed service
7–14 days
Common mistakes during Target onboarding
- Sending 855 acknowledgments late or with PO mismatches
- Missing SSCC-18 labels on cartons
- Submitting ASNs after the shipment has already arrived
- Invoice line items not matching the original PO exactly
- Not having immediate support when a test fails
Final thoughts
Target EDI compliance is very achievable for new suppliers. The key is understanding their specific requirements, running clean tests, and having someone experienced to handle issues as they come up.
No onboarding fees. Pay only after you go live.
More EDI Resources
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EDI pricing is confusing by design. Between per-document fees, VAN charges, and hidden add-ons, most suppliers have no clear idea what they're paying for. Here's how to avoid it.
AS2 vs VAN: What Suppliers Actually Need to Know
AS2 and VAN are both ways to send EDI documents. But which one do you actually need? This plain-English guide breaks down the real differences — and what actually matters for suppliers.
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