When evaluating EDI vendors, most businesses focus on price and timeline. But these surface-level details barely scratch the surface of what actually determines the success—or failure—of your integration. Vendors know this, which is why many avoid deeper conversations until after you’ve signed.
At Crackerjack-IT, we believe the best time to ask the hard questions is before the ink dries. Below are the critical questions to ask that EDI consolidators and offshored providers often hope you don’t.
1. Can I See a Copy of Your Mapping Specs and Sample Files Before Signing?
Many vendors withhold this until you're locked into a contract, but these documents show how standardized—or inflexible—their approach is. If they can’t or won’t show you real-world samples, it’s a red flag.
Crackerjack-IT builds custom EDI logic aligned to your actual workflows—not one-size-fits-all maps.
2. Who Actually Provides Support, and Where Are They Located?
Will you be working with US-based specialists or a rotating offshore help desk that responds in vague templated replies? Who picks up the phone when something breaks?
Our support is 100% US-based, live, and staffed by real EDI experts—not a ticketing system.
3. What Happens If My Retailer Changes Their EDI Requirements?
Retailers frequently update EDI specs. Some vendors charge steep “change fees,” while others require you to open a support case and wait in line.
Crackerjack proactively monitors spec changes for major retailers and adjusts maps quickly without surprise charges.
4. Do I Own the Integration Logic If I Leave?
Some vendors lock you into proprietary platforms. If you want to switch, you lose everything and have to start from scratch.
We build integrations you own—portable, reusable logic that stays with your business.
5. Are There Any Volume-Based or Per-Document Fees?
Watch out for per-transaction or per-connection pricing models that can balloon over time. These are cash cows for consolidators like SPS Commerce and TrueCommerce.
Crackerjack bills only for actual work done. We don't lock you into expensive support contracts. If you need us, let us know and we'll get it taken care of.
6. What Happens After Go-Live?
Does your vendor provide hands-on support post-launch, or are you left to fend for yourself? Many EDI providers quietly end involvement once the system is “technically working.”
Our post-go-live support ensures that your integration keeps working as your business evolves.
The truth is, most EDI vendors rely on your lack of technical questions to push through contracts filled with hidden costs and rigid templates. At Crackerjack-IT, we do things differently. We welcome tough questions. We thrive on transparency. And we build EDI/API solutions that fit your business—not the other way around.
Ready to Work With a Partner Who Tells You the Whole Story?
Let’s talk about building a custom EDI solution you’ll never regret signing up for.