Connect to every trading partner, however they connect
One partner wants AS2. Another wants SFTP. A third has an API, and a fourth is on another VAN. Connect them all through BOLD VAN, and we test every connection before it goes live.
Connection methods we support
Every connection method is available on every plan, with no surcharges.
AS2 and AS4
The secure, direct internet connections many large retailers and international partners require, with receipts that confirm each document was delivered.
SFTP, FTP, HTTP and HTTPS
Drop files in and pick them up, with SFTP and HTTPS for encrypted connections. Plain FTP isn't encrypted, so we offer it only with a signed customer waiver.
REST API and web services
Connect systems and platforms directly, so documents move without anyone exporting or uploading files.
Connections to other VANs
If your trading partner is on another VAN, we connect to it, so you can reach them without switching anything on their side.
X.400 and OFTP
The protocols many European and automotive partners still use.
GISB/NAESB
For utilities, gas and power companies exchanging data under GISB and NAESB standards.
Managed file transfer
Move files that aren't EDI, such as reports and spreadsheets, through the same secure network.
Our secure transfer tool
For companies without SFTP, we provide a simple, secure way to send and receive files.
Proof of delivery
Delivery receipts record that each document was sent and received, depending on the connection method. Acknowledgments then show whether it was accepted.
The portal
Every document, whichever way it travels, shows up in the portal with its status, and you get email notifications when something needs your attention.
Standards and formats we work with
We support the standards and formats your partners use. With BOLD Integration, we map them into the formats your systems understand.
- X12 and EDIFACT, the standards most North American and international trading partners use.
- Tradacoms and VDA, common in UK retail and in automotive.
- cXML and ebXML, used by procurement networks and B2B platforms.
- XML, JSON, CSV and flat files, plus custom formats your systems define.
- Peppol, for e-invoicing with partners that require it.
- Product catalogs, sent as PRICAT for EDIFACT partners or as an 832 for X12 partners. See BOLD Catalog Network.
- Emailed and PDF orders from customers who don't do EDI, turned into EDI through BOLD Exchange.
New connections, fast
New connections are typically live within about a business day. Going live with a trading partner also depends on that partner's own testing.
Switching from another VAN?
You keep your existing IDs, and the switch is invisible to your trading partners: they don't need to do anything differently. We typically schedule your switch about two weeks out, and the move happens on the day you choose. Running more than one VAN?
We support encrypted connection methods, including AS2, SFTP and HTTPS, and BOLD VAN is SOC 2 Type II audited. See how we protect your documents. Already map your own EDI and just need connections? See BOLD Transmission and Connectivity.
Common questions about EDI connections
Do you support AS2?
Yes, along with AS4, SFTP, FTP,* HTTP and HTTPS, REST API and web services, X.400, OFTP and GISB/NAESB. *Plain FTP isn't encrypted, so it's available only with a signed customer waiver.
Do you charge extra for AS2 or other connection methods?
No. Every connection method is available on every plan, with no surcharges.
Can you connect to a trading partner on another VAN?
Yes. We connect to other VANs, so you can reach partners on them without asking those partners to change anything.
We don't have SFTP. Can we still connect?
Yes. We provide a secure transfer tool for companies without SFTP, so you can send and receive files safely.
Can we connect through an API instead of files?
Yes. We support REST API and web services connections, so systems and platforms can exchange documents directly.
Which formats do you support?
EDI standards including X12, EDIFACT, Tradacoms, VDA, cXML and ebXML; data formats including XML, JSON, CSV, flat files, Peppol and custom formats; and emailed or PDF orders from customers who don't do EDI.
Do you support EDIFACT?
Yes. We support EDIFACT alongside X12, Tradacoms, VDA, cXML and ebXML, so you can trade with partners around the world.
Do you support Peppol?
Yes. We support Peppol for e-invoicing with partners and governments that require it.
How fast can a new connection be live?
New connections are typically live within about a business day. Going live with each partner also depends on that partner's testing.
Got a partner with unusual requirements?
Send us their connection specs, and a US-based EDI expert will tell you exactly how we'd connect them. No pressure and no obligation.
Every partner, one network
However your trading partners connect, we connect them to you.
Talk to an EDI expert