EDIFACT APERAK — Application Error and Acknowledgment
APERAK signals whether the receiving application could process a message: accepted, partially accepted, or rejected with coded reasons tied to segments or references.
✦ What It Does
ERC and FTX groups carry error codes and free-text explanations; linkage identifies the offending message reference.
Many hubs require APERAK for ORDERS, INVOIC, or DESADV when functional validation exceeds syntax.
APERAK is not a substitute for CONTRL; both may appear in sequence.
⚡ When It's Used
- Schema-valid ORDERS fails vendor master validation.
- INVOIC rejected for tax registration mismatch.
- DESADV SSCC not found in receiving system.
- Batch reprocessing after partner code list update.
- Compliance checks on hazardous material data.
Who Uses EDIFACT APERAK
European retail & brands
Common in EDIFACT-first programs where application error and acknowledgment flows between HQ, DCs, and suppliers across the EU and APAC.
Global manufacturers
Automotive, industrial, and CPG companies standardize on EDIFACT for plants and suppliers outside North America.
3PLs & carriers
Logistics service providers consume or produce the message when the contract mandates UN/EDIFACT syntax and directories.
Key Segments & Constructs
EDIFACT uses a hierarchical structure: UNH (message header) opens the transaction; BGM (beginning of message) carries the document name and reference; party data uses NAD; lines often use LIN with QTY, PRI, and MOA. Exact segment requirements depend on the message directory (D.96A, etc.) and your trading partner's implementation guide.
BGM
Acknowledgment document type and status.
DOC / RFF
Reference to the message being acknowledged.
ERC
Application error codes.
FTX
Human-readable error context for support teams.
Related Messages
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