EDI for Target — full spec, timelines and integration
In short: Target requires suppliers to exchange EDI 850, 855, 856, 810, 820, 852, 997 via EDI. This page covers the Target EDI spec, AS2 or Sterling B2B Collaboration Network transport, mandatory chargeback SLAs, ASN/label requirements, and how to get compliant in 2-4 weeks with a pre-built Target template on EDIconnect.
Key capabilities
- Pre-built Target spec: Every mandatory field, code, envelope value and validation rule from the current Target EDI implementation guide.
- Chargeback-safe ASN: GS1-128 SSCC label generation, pack hierarchy, timing rules — the exact combination that survives Target's DC receiving.
- AS2 or Sterling B2B Collaboration Network transport included: Certificates, endpoints and connection testing with Target's EDI/VAN team — end-to-end, not just software.
- Live in 2-4 weeks: From contract to first production PO with Target — mapping, testing and go-live handled by EDIconnect.
Target EDI onboarding — the critical steps
Target's vendor onboarding is compressed and unforgiving: from vendor-code assignment to first production PO is typically 2-6 weeks, and any EDI failure delays merchandising launch. The winning pattern: assign the EDI spec to an experienced provider on day 1, run integration tests in parallel with item setup, and be certification-ready before the first PO drops.
EDIconnect's Target template has been in production with dozens of suppliers — the spec quirks, the label format edge cases, the SLA windows are all pre-configured. Suppliers we've onboarded typically hit zero chargebacks in the first 90 days.
Frequently asked questions
What EDI documents does Target require?
Target typically requires EDI 850, 855, 856, 810, 820, 852, 997. Exact transaction set version and mandatory segments depend on your division/vendor category.
How do I get EDI-compliant with Target?
1) Get the Target EDI implementation guide from vendor portal. 2) Choose an EDI provider with a proven Target template. 3) Complete Target's EDI testing/certification. 4) Go live on the first PO.
Which transport protocol does Target use?
Target supports AS2 direct-connect or Sterling B2B. AS2 is preferred for lower cost and faster processing.
What are Target's EDI chargebacks?
Common categories: late ASN, missing SSCC label, PO-ship quantity mismatch, missing 997, mismatched carrier — each with a per-occurrence or percentage-of-invoice penalty.
Can EDIconnect handle this for me?
Yes. The Target template is pre-built and battle-tested. Your team never touches EDI schemas — you focus on filling POs; we handle 850/855/856/810/997 automatically.