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Electronic Ordering (EDI)

Send your orders to BTC electronically instead of manually keying them into our webstore.


Please login to request Electronic Ordering (EDI)



What is Electronic Ordering (EDI)?

You can send your orders as electronic files instead of manually keying them into our webstore.

We currently have two methods of integration;

  • Electronic Ordering (EDI) CSV
  • Electronic Ordering (EDI) XML

There are many benefits of setting up EDI ordering;

  • Massive time saving as you no longer need to “re-key” all orders received into our webstore
  • No time delays as orders are sent straight to pick within 5 minutes – can be sent day or night
  • Better order fulfilment as stock is secured for you more quickly
  • All orders include exclusive ‘Advance Shipping Notifications’ and ‘Invoice Schedule’ files
  • All electronic orders can include branded delivery notes
  • Add DPD Predict email/SMS target recipients
  • The process can be fully automated so that no manual intervention is required by you
EDI Electronic Ordering
  • Electronic Ordering (EDI) CSV

    BTC's CSV EDI method, uses a comma separated (.csv) spreadsheet format. The order files are transmitted over the internet using your FTP account .

    How does this service work?

    • BTC setup an order import folder for you to place order files in
    • BTC checks the folder every 5 minutes for an order file which we collect and process
    • Orders are imported into our webstore by an automated routine which creates a sales order
    • The sales order is sent straight to pick in the Distribution Centre
    • All orders received before 5:00pm are shipped that night as per usual
    • If there are any pick shortages after 4.30pm, we’ll ship what we can and notify your Account Manager
    • If there are any pick shortages before 4.30pm, we’ll hold the pick and notify your Account Manager who will contact you
  • Electronic Ordering (EDI) XML

    EDI XML is a web service for processing sales orders which is sometimes referred to as an ‘API’. The web service makes itself available over the internet and uses a standardised XML messaging system. XML is used to encapsulate communications with a web service.

    How does this service work?

    • Customer sends Purchase Order(s)
    • BTC replies with Sales Order Number(s)

    XML EDI benefits

    • Multi-thread’ order processing - orders can be processed in parallel as opposed to in sequence (in a queue) as per CSV EDI. Sent to pick more quickly
    • Ability to add 1 (or many) Order Confirmation email recipients
    • Select ‘Fastest’ (e.g. Next day Before 12:00) or ‘Cheapest’ (e.g. 48 Business hours) standard carriage rate for the intended delivery address
    • Uses the web standards from the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and Microsoft
    • ‘State of the art’ security protocols and data encryption in transit

  • FAQs

    • Can I set up EDI?

      Yes, our web services are available for all customers and the BTC web team will assist you with set up. For XML and bespoke systems you may need to involve a 3rd party e-Commerce supplier/ developer.

    • I do not have an e-Commerce website, can I still set up EDI?

      Electronic orders are of most use to those who already have their own e-Commerce website. EDI can also be linked to Purchase Order (PO) systems. If you are looking to set up an e-Commerce website visit Product Data (e-Commerce).

    • What is XML?

      XML stands for eXtensible Markup Language. ‘Extensible’ means users can define their own customised Mark-up Language ‘tags’.

    • Do I need BTC product data to use EDI?

      For new website set ups please use BTC Product Data. If your website is already set up please contact the websupport team with details, to see how we can map your data.