VAN Interconnect

Interconnection concept between EDI Value-Added Networks.

Definition

Without an interconnect, two partners would have to hold a mailbox on the same VAN. The interconnect links VANs together, routes interchanges, and bills the cross-operator traffic. The hand-off between VANs is commonly governed by the X12.56 mailbag protocol.

Origin

Standard practice documented by legacy operators, e.g. the IBM/GXS manual "EDI Services Using EDI VAN Interconnect" (GC34-2263); the interconnect control structures are standardised by ANSI ASC X12 (the X12.56 standard).

Example in context

The buyer keeps its mailbox at OpenText (ex-GXS) and the supplier at SPS Commerce; a VAN interconnect between the two operators carries the purchase order without the supplier ever opening a mailbox at OpenText.

Related terms

• VAN — the operator that hosts the mailboxes.
• Mailbag (X12.56) — control structure used between interconnected VANs.