EDI2XML REST API - Convert EDI to JSON or XML with REST API

Last Updated on July 31, 2025 by Tatyana Vandich

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) remains the backbone of B2B transactions, but traditional EDI systems can be complex, expensive, and difficult to integrate with modern applications. The EDI2XML REST API 2.0 changes this paradigm entirely, offering developers a streamlined, secure, and cost-effective solution for EDI to JSON and XML conversion without requiring deep EDI expertise.

In this article, we’ll explore how EDI2XML’s latest version of EDI Web Service transforms EDI integration for developers, IT managers, and business leaders seeking modern data exchange solutions.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Instant EDI Translation: Convert EDI (X12, EDIFACT) to JSON/XML and vice versa through a REST API call
Zero EDI Experience Required: Work with familiar JSON and XML formats instead of complex EDI standards
Enhanced Security: OAuth2 token-based authentication with one-hour refresh cycles
Built-in 997 Acknowledgments: Automatic functional acknowledgments eliminate additional API calls
Rapid Implementation: Get started in under one hour with comprehensive documentation and Java client
Cost-Effective: Pay-as-you-go pricing with no contracts or hidden fees

15-Day Free Trial: Test the service risk-free before committing. 15-day free trial, no credit card required

What is EDI2XML REST API?

The EDI2XML Web Service is an HTTP-based EDI conversion REST API that automatically detects incoming message formats and performs seamless translations between EDI (X12), XML, and JSON. Built on 25 years of EDI expertise, this cloud-based service eliminates the complexity traditionally associated with EDI integration.

Unlike conventional EDI software that requires specialized knowledge and extensive setup, EDI2XML operates entirely over the internet, processing secure HTTP requests to translate:

EDI messages (X12, EDIFACT) into XML or JSON formats
XML or JSON (based on EDI2XML’s proprietary schema) into EDI
Automatic format detection for incoming messages
Bi-directional conversion with consistent reliability

The service is designed for developers who want to integrate EDI capabilities into their applications without becoming EDI experts themselves.

What’s New in EDI2XML REST API Version 2.0?

Enhanced JSON Support

Version 2.0 introduces comprehensive JSON support, allowing developers to work with their preferred data format. The API now supports both application/json and application/xml content types, giving you complete flexibility in how you structure your requests and responses.

Key JSON enhancements include:

Send JSON requests and receive X12 (EDI) responses
Send X12 and receive JSON responses based on request parameters
Native JSON parsing and validation
Improved response structure for better programmatic handling

Built-in 997 Functional Acknowledgment

One of the most significant improvements in version 2.0 is the automatic generation of 997 Functional Acknowledgments. Previously, obtaining acknowledgments required separate API calls, but now:

997 acknowledgments are returned automatically with every conversion
No additional API calls required, reducing complexity and latency
X12-formatted acknowledgment strings ready for immediate processing
Streamlined workflow for compliance and audit requirements

Enhanced Security with OAuth2 Authentication

Security takes center stage in version 2.0 with robust OAuth2 implementation:

Token-based authentication replaces simple API key authentication
Refresh tokens generate access tokens valid for one hour
Enhanced access control for production environments
Secure token exchange following OAuth2 best practices
Better audit trails and access monitoring capabilities

Developer-Focused Improvements

Version 2.0 includes numerous enhancements specifically designed for developer productivity:

Faster response times through optimized processing
Clearer API payloads with improved error handling
Updated XML schemas for better validation
Enhanced documentation with more code examples
Cross-platform Java client for rapid integration

Useful reading: EDI vs. XML vs. JSON: The Ultimate Guide to Structured Data for Business Integration

Why Developers Choose EDI2XML Over Traditional EDI Solutions

No EDI Experience Required

Traditional EDI implementation requires months of learning complex standards, transaction sets, and mapping rules. EDI2XML eliminates this barrier by allowing developers to work exclusively with XML and JSON—formats they already understand.

Rapid Integration Timeline

EDI2XML is designed for speed. Most developers can complete their first successful API call within an hour of subscription. The service provides:

Pre-built Java client for immediate integration
Complete documentation with working examples
Sample EDI and XML files for testing
Schema files for all supported transactions
Postman collections for API exploration

Cost-Effective Pay-As-You-Go Model

Unlike traditional EDI software with hefty upfront costs and long-term contracts, EDI2XML offers transparent, usage-based pricing:

Monthly mailbox fee: Fixed cost for platform access
Data processing fee: Variable cost based on actual usage
No hidden fees or unexpected charges
No long-term contracts required
Customized quotes available for high-volume users

EDI2XML vs Traditional EDI Software: A Comparison

Feature	EDI2XML REST API	Traditional EDI Software
Setup Time	Under 1 hour	Weeks to months
EDI Knowledge Required	None	Extensive
Infrastructure	Cloud-based	On-premise servers/cloud based
Pricing Model	Pay as you go, no contracts	License + maintenance fees
Integration Method	Simple REST API	Complex proprietary interfaces
Security	OAuth2 + HTTPS	Varies by vendor
Scalability	Automatic	Manual infrastructure scaling
Maintenance	Managed service	Customer responsibility/managed service
Documentation	Comprehensive guide	Often limited

Getting Started with EDI2XML REST API

Step 1: Request Your Free Trial

Begin with a 15-day free trial that includes:

Full API access with authentication tokens
Sample EDI and XML files for testing
Complete documentation and Java client
Technical support from EDI experts

Step 2: Review Documentation

The comprehensive getting started guide provides:

Java client source code (100% cross-platform)
ARC/Postman examples for immediate testing
Sample files for both EDI and XML formats
Schema downloads for all supported transactions
Authentication setup instructions

Step 3: Make Your First API Call

Using the provided Java client or HTTP tools:

Authenticate using OAuth2 tokens
Prepare your message (EDI, XML, or JSON)
Submit HTTP request to the conversion endpoint
Receive converted output with 997 acknowledgment
Process results in your application

Use Cases and Industry Applications

E-commerce Integration

Order processing (850 Purchase Orders)
Shipping notifications (856 Advance Ship Notices)
Invoice processing (810 Invoices)
Inventory updates (846 Inventory Inquiry/Advice)

Supply Chain Management

Supplier onboarding with EDI capabilities
Real-time inventory synchronization
Automated purchase order processing
Shipment tracking and notifications

Healthcare Systems

Claims processing (837 Healthcare Claims)
Eligibility verification (270/271 Eligibility)
Remittance advice (835 Healthcare Payment)
Prior authorization workflows

Manufacturing Integration

Production scheduling data exchange
Material requirements communication
Quality control reporting
Supplier portal integration

Why Choose EDI2XML REST API 2.0 for Modern EDI Integration

Traditional EDI integration has long been a source of complexity and cost. Legacy VANs, on-premise middleware, and rigid mapping tools demand time, expertise, and money.

EDI2XML REST API 2.0 offers a modern, cloud-based alternative: a lightweight and secure web service for real-time conversion between EDI (X12, EDIFACT) and modern data formats (XML and JSON).

Whether you’re building an app, automating a business process, or connecting to retail partners, this API lets developers and integration teams handle EDI transactions via standard HTTPS calls—no deep EDI experience required.

Try EDI2XML REST API Free for 15 Days

Experience the power of modern EDI integration with our comprehensive free trial. No credit card required, no hidden commitments—just full access to explore how EDI2XML can streamline your data exchange processes.

Ready to modernize your EDI integration? Contact our team today for personalized pricing and implementation support.

EDI Web Service – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How is this API different from other EDI solutions?

It’s lightweight, cloud-based, and designed for developers. You don’t need to install or maintain software, manage mappings, or know EDI syntax.

Which transaction sets are supported?

All major X12 and EDIFACT documents – EDI 850, EDI 810, EDI 856, EDI 997, EDI 855, EDI 846, and more.

What happens after my free trial ends?

You can switch to a flexible pay-as-you-go plan with no long-term commitment. All features remain available.

How can I convert EDI to JSON using EDI2XML?

EDI2XML automatically converts EDI (X12) messages to JSON format through a simple REST API call. Send your EDI message via HTTP POST request with application/json in the Accept header, and receive a structured JSON response containing the converted data plus a 997 functional acknowledgment.

Is EDI2XML secure for production environments?

Yes, EDI2XML implements enterprise-grade security with OAuth2 token-based authentication, HTTPS encryption for all communications, and secure token refresh mechanisms. Access tokens are valid for one hour, and the service follows industry best practices for data protection and access control.

Does EDI2XML support X12 EDI standards?

EDI2XML fully supports X12 EDI standards and automatically generates 997 Functional Acknowledgments for compliance. The service handles all common X12 transaction sets including EDI 850 (Purchase Orders), 810 (Invoices), 856 (Advance Ship Notices), and many others.

How quickly can I integrate EDI2XML into my application?

Most developers complete their first successful API integration within one hour. EDI2XML provides a complete Java client, comprehensive documentation, sample files, and expert support to ensure rapid implementation without requiring EDI expertise.

What formats does EDI2XML REST API support?

EDI2XML supports bi-directional conversion between EDI (X12), XML, and JSON formats. Version 2.0 adds enhanced JSON support with automatic format detection, allowing you to send messages in any supported format and receive responses in your preferred format.

How much does EDI2XML cost?

EDI2XML uses a transparent pay-as-you-go pricing model with two components: a fixed monthly mailbox fee for platform access and a variable data processing fee based on actual usage volume. There are no hidden fees, upfront costs, or long-term contracts required.

Can I try EDI2XML before purchasing?

Yes, EDI2XML offers a comprehensive 15-day free trial with full API access, documentation, sample files, and expert support. No credit card is required to start your trial, and you can explore all features risk-free.

Does EDI2XML provide technical support?

EDI2XML includes expert technical support backed by 25 years of EDI experience. Support covers API integration, troubleshooting, best practices, and project planning to ensure successful implementation and ongoing operations.

Ready to modernize your EDI integration? Start your free 15-day trial today and discover how EDI2XML REST API 2.0 can transform your data exchange processes. Contact our EDI experts for personalized consultation and pricing information tailored to your specific requirements.

Tatyana Vandich

Tatyana Vandich is a seasoned marketing professional with a focus on technology and business solutions. She regularly contributes to the EDI2XML blog, sharing insights on EDI, data integration, and digital transformation to help businesses improve operational efficiency.

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