Bridging the Gap: How Customized EDI & API Solutions Can Power Seamless Supply Chain Communication

For shippers and third-party logistics providers (3PLs), effective communication is central to orchestrating complex supply chains and ensuring reliable shipment lifecycle management. In today’s fast-paced logistics environment, every connection matters: whether you’re managing thousands of shipments or coordinating with a diverse network of carriers and partners, aligning different systems and protocols is essential for success. Whether it’s Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or Application Programming Interface (API) messaging, the goal remains the same: seamless, secure and efficient data exchange.

Recognizing that no two transportation supply chains are the same, we offer customized integration services tailored to meet the unique needs of shippers and 3PLs. These solutions automate and empower reliable information exchange and execution at every stage of the shipment lifecycle—from quoting and dispatch to tracking and invoicing.

EDI and API: Complementary Technologies for a Connected Supply Chain

While API-based messaging has rapidly gained ground by enabling proactive, real-time capabilities—earlier visibility, tracking, instant pickup confirmations, and improved shipment status tracking, EDI remains a trusted standard across the industry. Many shippers have long-standing EDI processes that are deeply embedded in their operations, and in some cases, EDI still delivers richer data than API.

While the industry’s push toward API integration is undeniable, many organizations have deeply ingrained EDI communication processes. EDI messaging has been around for decades, and the communication standard remains pervasive in the industry, as many shippers are already heavily invested in time-tested EDI solutions that continue to deliver critical value. . At the same time, carriers are constantly improving existing and developing new API offerings that can benefit any shipper or LSP TMS.  From real-time status updates to instant pick-up request confirmations and even advance assignment of PRO numbers, carrier API services offer valuable functionality that stands on its own or augments any existing EDI infrastructure.

Enhanced communication via API and EDI protocols is in the backbone of SMC³’s suite of freight visibility and execution products. Rather than working with two providers, one for EDI connectivity and another for API integrations, there are several advantages to working with SMC³ to consume both technologies as a single solution. With SMC³, you will have a partner with the knowledge and experience to guide users toward how to leverage the best of both technologies, stay current by consuming the newest API functionality and take advantage of the time savings and cost efficiency that come with working with a single technology provider.

SMC³’s reliable and secure managed infrastructure comes with 24/7 monitoring, unrivaled customer service and a singular focus on LTL connectivity. SMC³ is a trusted provider of both EDI and API solutions, but at the end of the day, SMC³ always strives to help shippers, logistics providers and carriers effectively and efficiently exchange information with their partners. Whether you’re launching a new API connection or maintaining legacy EDI infrastructure, SMC³ provides a single integration point that simplifies connectivity, standardizes data, and accelerates implementation.

Why SMC³?

With nine decades of LTL transportation expertise, SMC³ is uniquely positioned to support shippers, carriers, and logistics service providers with:

• Managed EDI infrastructure that eliminates costly on-premises implementations
• 24/7 monitoring and support from a team of expert technicians
• Scalable messaging solutions that adapt to your business needs
• Gap-filling services where carrier APIs don’t yet exist
• Custom integrations tailored to your systems and workflows

By working with SMC³, you gain a trusted partner who understands the nuances of LTL communication and delivers the tools to streamline operations, reduce manual processes, and improve shipment accuracy.

Ready to Modernize Your Supply Chain?

Whether you’re looking to migrate from EDI to API, enhance your TMS connectivity, or simply improve visibility across your logistics network, SMC³ has the solutions to help you succeed.

For more SMC³ Resources please visit the SMC³ Resource Page.