VAN / SFTP (EDI transmission networks)
Quick answer
Methods of transporting EDI messages: VAN (value-added intermediary network) and SFTP (secure file transfer).
Key takeaways
- VAN (Value Added Network) - an intermediary network that receives, routes and delivers messages to your partners, like an 'EDI post office'. It adds services: archiving, translation, confirmations.
- SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) - secure file transfer directly between servers, simple and widely supported.
What VAN and SFTP are
To transmit EDI messages between partners, you need a transport channel. The most common:
- VAN (Value Added Network) - an intermediary network that receives, routes and delivers messages to your partners, like an 'EDI post office'. It adds services: archiving, translation, confirmations.
- SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol) - secure file transfer directly between servers, simple and widely supported.
Comparison with direct connections
A VAN simplifies connecting to many partners (a single network connection) but has a per-transaction cost. AS2/OFTP2/SFTP are direct (no per-message cost) but require per-partner setup.
How to choose
- Many partners, variable volume → VAN (simplicity)
- Large partners mandating a protocol → direct AS2/OFTP2/SFTP
How CRMconnect helps
CRMconnect connects via VAN, AS2, OFTP2 and SFTP, choosing the right channel per partner - so you can work with any retailer, whatever their preferred transport method.
Real-world example
A supplier with 20 retailers used a VAN for quick connection to most, but 2 large retailers mandated direct AS2. CRMconnect handled both channels transparently from a single EDI system.
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Frequently asked
What is a VAN in EDI?+
Value Added Network - an intermediary that receives your EDI messages and routes them to the correct partners, like a specialised electronic post office. It simplifies connecting to many partners but has a per-transaction cost.
Is SFTP enough for EDI?+
Yes, for many partners. SFTP securely transfers EDI files between servers. It lacks AS2's advanced confirmations (MDN) but is simple, robust and widely supported.
Which transport method is best?+
There's no universal one. It depends on the partner: some mandate AS2 or OFTP2, others accept SFTP or VAN. A good EDI module supports them all so you can connect with anyone.
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).
TechnologyOFTP2 (Odette File Transfer Protocol)
The standard EDI transmission protocol in the European automotive industry, for secure file exchange over the internet.
TechnologyEDI mapping
Translating between the standard EDI message structure and your ERP's data format, for automatic processing.