Skip to main content

How to Set Up EDI Files in PDI C-Store Essentials

This article outlines the process of setting up Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) files in PDI C-Store Essentials

Updated over 2 weeks ago

  • EDI is an electronic communication method that standardizes data exchange between businesses

  • Many national and regional vendors, such as Core-Mark, H.T. Hackney, and McLane, support EDI to allow for electronic purchase uploads, eliminating the need for manual data entry

  • Fintech provides EDI files for beer vendors, ensuring automated processing of alcohol purchases- EDI file formats in PDI Essentials include Brenham as the default, Fintech for Fintech vendor purchases, and ABC text for managing vendor pricing updates.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Go to C-Store Essentials Web Account

  • You can access C-Store Essentials by clicking here or going to https://secure.cstorepro.com

  • Click the “Forgot Password” button if you need help resetting your password

  1. Navigate to Vendor Settings

  • On the left side of the screen, click Grocery

  • Then click Purchases

  • Next click on Vendors

  • Locate the vendor you need to assign an EDI format to- For Coremark invoices: navigate to Grocer > Purchase > Retailing. Click the '+' sign to add invoice information, then open the 3rd icon (Filter) and select the 'Upload EDI file' option.

  1. Edit or Add a Vendor

  • To edit an existing vendor, click the pencil icon next to the vendor's name

  • To add a new vendor, click the + symbol and enter the required details

4. Select the EDI File Format

  • Under Electronic File Format, choose the appropriate EDI format for your vendor

  • If your vendor’s EDI format is not listed, select Brenham as the default option

  • Click Add/Update Vendor to complete the setup- Use 'Brenham' as a default for uploading EDI files unless the vendor specifies otherwise. For HT Hackney vendors, 'Brenham' must be selected to ensure compatibility.- Note that Fintech files must be in Excel format, whereas PDF files are not supported.

Troubleshooting EDI File Uploads

  1. Check Your Device and Browser:

  • Switch to a different browser or upload from another computer.

  • Ensure a stable and fast internet connection. Problems often arise from latency issues. Testing the upload on the same internet but a different device can help identify whether the problem is device-specific.

  1. Verify and Update Settings:

  • Confirm the EDI format matches vendor requirements. For example, use 'Brenham' for most scenarios unless otherwise specified.

  • If issues persist, update settings by selecting 'Change electronic format' and clicking 'Continue' after choosing the right format.

  1. Resolve Submission Issues After Uploads:

  • If submission or retail options are missing after setting prices for items, click the 'Retail Items' button to re-access those options4. Invalid File Format: - Ensure the file is in EDI, TXT, or Excel format as required. For instance, Fintech files must be in Excel format, while PDF files are not supported..

✅ Note: The EDI file must be in standard ABC file format to ensure compatibility with PDI C-Store EssentialsEnsure files adhere to the required format and test using specification documents provided by the vendor. Note that uploads can occur only at the store level, not the CPB level.For recurring challenges or to streamline the upload process, contact PDI Essentials support or consult the latest training materials for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an EDI file?

  • EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is a standardized format for exchanging business documents electronically, reducing manual data entry.

Which vendors support EDI?

  • Many national and regional vendors, such as Core-Mark, H.T. Hackney, McLane, and Fintech, provide EDI files for automated processing.

What if my vendor’s EDI format isn’t listed?

  • If your vendor’s format is not available in the list, select Brenham as the default format.

How do I request an EDI file from my vendor?

  • Contact your vendor and request an EDI file in standard ABC file format for seamless integration.

Can I change the EDI format after setting it up?

  • Yes, you can edit the Electronic File Format under Purchases > Vendors at any time.- What should I do if my EDI file upload fails?

  • Check device/browser issues, confirm settings with vendor requirements, and retry.

  • How can I handle wholesaler EDI invoices without changing specific product categories?

  • Use the 'Bulk Retail EDI Update' feature or consult support.

  • What should I do if the submit option is missing after uploads?

  • Navigate to the 'Retail Items' button to proceed with submission.- Ensure the electronic file type selected matches the vendor requirements. For Coremark, configure settings to match their specifications before retailing invoices.


​


​

Did this answer your question?