Skip to main content
Babeldat and logistics

EDIFACT: The Logistics Language Between Computers

By July 29, 2025August 1st, 2025No Comments

What Is EDIFACT?

EDIFACT is an international standard for electronic data exchange between businesses. Think of digitally sending:

  • Incoming orders
  • Shipping instructions
  • Inventory updates
  • Transport assignments

Common Messages and Fields

A commonly used EDIFACT message structure is DESADV (Despatch Advice), a shipping notice. Common fields include:

  • UNH: message header with ID
  • BGM: message type and reference
  • DTM: date/time (e.g. expected arrival time)
  • RFF: references (such as customer or PO number)
  • NAD: parties involved (supplier, customer)
  • CPS: packaging hierarchy
  • LIN: product lines
  • QTY: quantities

Why EDIFACT Matters

EDIFACT eliminates manual errors and enables faster processing. Your warehouse worker no longer needs to check a packing slip—the data is already in the system.

Babeldat and EDIFACT

Babeldat supports all common EDIFACT messages, both for reading and sending. It can also automatically integrate with your ERP or accounting system.