What Is an EDI VAN?
An EDI VAN (Value-Added Network) is a private, managed service that enables companies to securely exchange Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) documents with their trading partners. Instead of building and maintaining hundreds of direct connections, businesses send and receive data through a VAN provider, which handles the delivery, translation, and tracking of each transaction.
What Does the “Value Add” Include?
A modern EDI VAN provides more than just message routing. Core services typically include:
Secure communication protocols (AS2, SFTP, API integration, etc.)
Data translation and transformation (X12, EDIFACT, XML, CSV, JSON)
Document tracking and audit trails for compliance and visibility
Mailboxing services so trading partners can connect once to reach many
Connectivity monitoring and retry logic to prevent failed transmissions
Around-the-clock support to resolve issues quickly
Scalability to handle peak transaction volumes without disruption
These services free up IT teams from managing point-to-point connections and troubleshooting errors, allowing companies to focus on their core business.
Why Kleinschmidt Is a Leading EDI VAN in North America
Kleinschmidt has been trusted by retailers, manufacturers, logistics providers, and government agencies for decades. What sets us apart:
Reliability: Among the highest network uptimes in the industry.
Support: 24/7/365 live support from experienced staff based in Deerfield, IL.
Expertise: Decades of experience with supply chain EDI and API integrations.
Flexibility: Cloud, on-premise, or hybrid options tailored to business needs.
Partnership: We act as an extension of your IT team, not just another vendor.
Questions to Ask When Evaluating an EDI VAN
When shopping for a VAN, make sure you ask the right questions. Here are some key ones, with notes on what to look for in the answers:
What is your network uptime?
Look for: 99.9% or better, with published metrics.
Do you provide 24/7/365 support?
Look for: Direct access to experienced staff, not just ticketing systems.
How do you handle failed or delayed transmissions?
Look for: Automated retries, alerts, and proactive monitoring.
What communication protocols and data formats do you support?
Look for: Broad coverage—AS2, SFTP, APIs, X12, EDIFACT, XML, CSV, JSON.
How do you scale during peak trading periods?
Look for: Proven track record with seasonal or high-volume businesses.
What does your onboarding process look like?
Look for: Dedicated implementation support and testing.
Where is your support team located?
Look for: In-region staff with deep industry knowledge.
What differentiates you from other VANs?
Look for: Tangible examples of reliability, service, and value beyond cost.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the right EDI VAN is about more than price—it’s about reliability, visibility, and peace of mind. Kleinschmidt delivers all of that, backed by decades of supply chain integration expertise and a reputation for service excellence.
Contact us today to learn how Kleinschmidt can simplify your trading partner connections and keep your business moving.