OFTP2 (Odette File Transfer Protocol)
Quick answer
The standard EDI transmission protocol in the European automotive industry, for secure file exchange over the internet.
Key takeaways
- Security - encryption and digital signature
- Confirmations - end-to-end response (EERP) as delivery proof
- Large files - supports technical/CAD data transfer, not just EDI messages
What OFTP2 is
OFTP2 (Odette File Transfer Protocol 2) is the EDI communication protocol developed by Odette for the European automotive industry. It enables secure file transfer (EDI messages, but also CAD/technical files) directly over the internet (TCP/IP).
Characteristics
- Security - encryption and digital signature
- Confirmations - end-to-end response (EERP) as delivery proof
- Large files - supports technical/CAD data transfer, not just EDI messages
When it is relevant
If you are a supplier in the European automotive chain (OEM and tier suppliers), OFTP2 is often the mandated protocol, alongside the industry-specific DELFOR/DELJIT messages.
How CRMconnect helps
CRMconnect supports OFTP2 for automotive suppliers, managing the secure connection, EERP confirmations and message integration (DELFOR/DELJIT/DESADV) into your system - compliance with OEM requirements.
Real-world example
A tier-1 auto supplier had to communicate with the OEM via OFTP2. CRMconnect configured the OFTP2 connection and integrated the DELFOR/DELJIT/DESADV flow, meeting the manufacturer's compliance requirements.
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Frequently asked
Difference between OFTP2 and AS2?+
Both are secure EDI transmission protocols over the internet. OFTP2 is the European automotive standard (Odette) and also supports technical/CAD files; AS2 is more widespread in general retail, especially with Anglo-Saxon partners.
Who mandates OFTP2?+
Predominantly European automotive manufacturers (OEMs) and their supplier chain. If you enter an automotive OEM's programme, OFTP2 is often the required communication protocol.
Does OFTP2 only transfer EDI messages?+
No. An OFTP2 advantage in automotive is that it also transfers large files (technical data, CAD, drawings), not just structured EDI messages - useful for OEM-supplier engineering collaboration.
Where CRMconnect fits
Related terms
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)
Structured exchange of commercial documents between B2B partners, without emails or manual data entry.
TechnologyAS2 (EDI transmission protocol)
A secure protocol for transmitting EDI messages directly over the internet, with encryption and delivery receipt (MDN).
TechnologyDELFOR / DELJIT (delivery schedules)
EDIFACT messages for communicating delivery forecasts and just-in-time calls, typical in automotive and manufacturing.
TechnologyVAN / SFTP (EDI transmission networks)
Methods of transporting EDI messages: VAN (value-added intermediary network) and SFTP (secure file transfer).