EDI Standards Explained: ANSI, EDIFACT, and More

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) enables businesses to exchange data in a structured, automated format. To ensure compatibility between different industries and countries, EDI standards define how data is formatted and transmitted.

Whether you’re working with ANSI X12 EDI, EDIFACT, or HIPAA EDI standards, choosing the right format is essential for seamless transactions with trading partners.

This guide explores the different types of EDI standards, their applications, and how they support global business communication.

Are you new to EDI? Learn everything you need to know with our Beginner’s Guide to Electronic Data Interchange.

What Are EDI Standards?

EDI standards are predefined rules for structuring electronic documents, ensuring that businesses across different regions and industries can interpret and process data consistently.

These standards help:

• Ensure data accuracy across systems
• Reduce errors in business transactions
• Facilitate compliance with industry regulations
• Enable seamless integration between trading partners

Different industries and countries use specific EDI standard formats, each tailored to particular business needs.

For an overview of how EDI documents function, read Types of EDI Documents and Their Uses in Business.

3 Types of EDI Standards

There are multiple EDI standards in use globally, each serving specific industries and regions.

Below is an EDI standards list with a breakdown of the most commonly used ones.

1. ANSI X12 EDI (North America)

ANSI X12 EDI, developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), is the dominant EDI standard in North America.

It is widely used in industries such as:

• Retail – Standardising purchase orders and invoices
• Healthcare – Supporting HIPAA-compliant transactions
• Logistics and Supply Chain – Enhancing order fulfillment and shipment tracking

Example ANSI X12 EDI Transactions:

• EDI 850 – Purchase Order
• EDI 810 – Invoice
• EDI 856 – Advance Shipping Notice (ASN)

To learn more about EDI compliance in other industries, check out our article about EDI in retail.

2. EDIFACT (International Standard)

EDIFACT (Electronic Data Interchange For Administration, Commerce, and Transport) was developed by the United Nations (UN) as a global EDI standard. It is widely used in Europe, Asia, and other international markets:

• Supports multi-country trade and regulatory requirements
• Used in manufacturing, logistics, and international retail

Example EDIFACT Transactions:

• ORDERS – Purchase Order
• INVOIC – Invoice
• DESADV – Despatch Advice

For businesses operating across borders, EDIFACT is often preferred over ANSI X12. Learn more about EDI in supply chains in our guide How EDI Improves Supply Chain Efficiency and Vendor Management.

3. HIPAA EDI Standards (Healthcare – USA)

For healthcare transactions in the United States, ANSI X12 has been adapted to comply with HIPAA EDI standards. These regulations mandate secure electronic exchanges of medical and insurance data.

• Ensures compliance with patient data security laws
• Used by hospitals, insurers, and pharmacies

Key HIPAA EDI Transactions:

• EDI 837 – Healthcare Claim Submission
• EDI 835 – Payment/Remittance Advice
• EDI 270/271 – Eligibility Inquiry and Response

For a detailed breakdown of EDI in healthcare, read The Role of EDI in the Healthcare Industry.

Other Common EDI Standards

Several industries have specialised EDI standards that cater to region-specific or sector-specific requirements.

EDIFACT vs. XML: Which One to Use?

Many modern businesses are shifting from traditional EDI formats (e.g., EDIFACT, ANSI X12) to XML-based EDIfor cloud and API-driven integrations.

• EDIFACT – Preferred for structured, high-volume B2B transactions
• XML EDI – Used for flexible, web-based integrations

For businesses exploring EDI API integrations, check out our article about the main difference and best practices for EDI and ERP Integration.

Choosing the Right EDI Standard for Your Business

The right EDI standard depends on your industry, trading partners, and geographic region.

• North American companies primarily use ANSI X12
• International businesses working across regions often use EDIFACT
• Healthcare providers in the U.S. must comply with HIPAA EDI standards
• Automotive and manufacturing sectors in Europe often use ODETTE

For businesses transitioning to modern EDI solutions, read Choosing the Right EDI Solution for Your Business Needs. We’ve also got a guide for EDI in the automotive industry – or affordable EDI solutions for small businesses.

Book a Free Consultation with Our Experts

Whether using ANSI X12, EDIFACT, HIPAA-compliant formats, or XML-based EDI, businesses must choose the right standard based on region, trading partners, and industry needs.

At TrueCommerce, we offer EDI solutions that supports multiple standards. Want to hear more? Book a free call with our experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many businesses have questions about EDI standards, formats, and industry-specific requirements. Below, we answer some of the most common queries.

What is the difference between ANSI and EDIFACT?

ANSI X12 is used mainly in North America, while EDIFACT is an international standard used across Europe and Asia. Both define structured document formats, but their syntax and message structures differ.

Which EDI standard is best for global trade?

EDIFACT is the preferred global trade standard as it supports multi-country regulations and business transactions.

Are HIPAA EDI standards required in healthcare?

Yes, HIPAA-compliant EDI transactions are legally required for U.S. healthcare providers, insurers, and pharmacies.