EDI 846 - Inventory Inquiry/Advice

The EDI 846 keeps retailers and suppliers up to date on inventory levels and is required for dropship or direct-to-consumer types of fulfillment models. In most cases, it is used by retailers who are asking their suppliers about current and future inventory available for their stores and warehouses.

EDI Documents

Benefits of using the EDI 846 Inventory Inquiry/Advice

Both buyers (retailers) and sellers (suppliers) benefit from implementing the EDI 846. Many of these are dependent on how automated and integrated the transaction is for both parties. Some of the benefits include:

R

Retailers can better plan warehouse and store ordering

R

Reduces manual processes and human error for all trading partners

R

Allows both suppliers and retailers to better manage eCommerce drop shipping

R

Communicates to the retailer when the item will be available again if out of stock

R

Enables the supplier to advise when product is out of stock or no longer being made

R

Supports the ability for retailers to order non-stock items/special orders from suppliers

R

Enables retailers to manage details on their website such as item out of stock, quantity available, or remove the item from the website

Key data elements included in an EDI 846 Inventory Feed:

R

Inventory date

R

Identifying number

R

Product item identifiers/services such as UPC/EAN/GTIN needed with their respective quantities

Additional data that may also be included in the Inventory Inquiry/Advice are:

R

Vendor number

R

Discontinued products

R

Supplier warehouse locations with on hand amounts by item

R

Item description

R

Out of stock items and restock dates

R

Additional item identifiers such as buyer item number and vendor part number

Common issues regarding EDI 846

Accuracy: 

Some companies don’t have an accurate inventory system or their stock status is not properly maintained. This can be a significant challenge since the EDI 846 requires accurate inventory information.

Timeliness:

Retailers have different requirements for suppliers sending the EDI 846 document. It’s important to respond quickly. Often the EDI 846 must be sent every day or multiple times per day.

Automate 846 Inventory Inquiry/Advice with Full-Service EDI from SPS Commerce

Managing ongoing EDI tasks can be complex and time-consuming. Full-service EDI providers like SPS Commerce deliver EDI technology and associated staffing resources responsible for customizing, optimizing and operating your EDI solution.

SPS communicates directly with your trading partners to manage connectivity, setup, requirements, updates and support efforts. SPS also takes ownership of understanding
your trading partner requirements and making map changes.

SPS Fulfillment proactively monitors and optimizes your solution to prevent errors and minimize data entry. Interested in learning more about our EDI solution?

Eliminate the expense of manual processes.

Remove the time and effort of taking it on yourself. Start here.

(You'll hear back in 1 business day)

Additional EDI Resources

Enter a virtual library of information about EDI for suppliers, vendors and distributors to provide you with the product knowledge you need to power your business.

Ultimate List of EDI Transactions

Here are some of the most common documents and transactions that are supported through EDI automation.

See the Ultimate List

Five Top EDI Documents to Automate

When you automate your most-used EDI documents, it can significantly cut down keystrokes and speed up processes.

Give Me Five

EDI Glossary

Terminology including retail definitions, order management models, supply chain roles, software and distribution channels.

What’s the Word

EDI for Suppliers & Vendors

Discover how leading vendor and supplier businesses are serving their customers better with EDI solutions from SPS Commerce.

EDI for Suppliers & Vendors