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Electronic data interchange

​​​​​​​What is EDI?

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the computer-to-computer exchange of business data in standard formats. In EDI, information is organized according to a specified format set by both parties, allowing a "hands-off" computer transaction that requires no human intervention or rekeying on either end. All information contained in an EDI transaction set is, for the most part, the same as on a conventionally printed document.

Some benefits of EDI include:

  • Reduced cycle time
  • Increased productivity
  • Reduced costs
  • Improved accuracy
  • Improved business relationships
  • Minimized paper use and storage

Trade with CP

To become a trading partner with CP, together we decide on which standards to use, the information to be exchanged, and the VAN. Once this is done, the documents we exchange are automatically translated, secured and delivered via the VAN.

​EDI alt​​​ernatives

O​​RISS


Online Rail Industry Supply System (ORISS) is the preferred website for rail industry suppliers to use when receiving purchase orders and submitting invoices with major railroads. It has three options, full P.O./invoice processing, material invoices only, or fuel invoices only.​


Email or Fax


Non-PO invoices may be submitted by email and fax.​