Overview
ISO 9735-2:2002 specifies application-level syntax rules specific to batch Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) under the UN/EDIFACT framework. This part of ISO 9735 focuses on the formatting and structuring of batch EDI interchanges between computer application systems, clarifying interchange, group and message organization while deferring communications protocols to other documents. The standard uses Syntax version number 4 and Syntax release number 01 and must be read in conjunction with ISO 9735-1 and ISO 9735-10.
Key Topics
- Batch interchange structure: header and trailer sequencing (e.g., UNA service string advice, UNB/UNZ interchange header and trailer).
- Grouping and messaging: definition of GROUP (UNG/UNE), MESSAGE (UNH/UNT), and MESSAGE BODY composition.
- Segment and data element organization: segment tags, stand-alone and composite data elements, repeating elements and component elements.
- Conformance rules: how to claim conformance, supported options, and dependency on related parts for full compliance.
- Normative references and maintenance: relationship to ISO 9735-1 and ISO 9735-10 and the UN Trade Data Interchange Directory (UNTDID).
Keywords: EDIFACT, batch EDI, syntax rules, interchange, conformance, UNTDID, UN/EDIFACT, UNB, UNH, UNZ.
Applications
ISO 9735-2:2002 delivers practical value for organizations implementing or maintaining batch EDI solutions:
- Enables consistent and interoperable message formatting across trading partners and EDI gateways.
- Supports development of EDI translators, middleware and integration adapters that must create or interpret EDIFACT batch messages.
- Provides conformance guidance useful for testing and validating batch interchange structure and message composition.
- Assists implementers in mapping internal data models to EDIFACT-compliant message bodies while ensuring adherence to UNTDID message design rules.
- Useful for industries that rely on bulk or scheduled exchanges (logistics, procurement, financial settlement) where batch processing is preferred.
Note: ISO 9735-2 does not specify communications or transport protocols; for package transfer in batch environments see ISO 9735-8.
Related Standards
- ISO 9735-1:2002 - Syntax rules common to all parts (mandatory companion).
- ISO 9735-3 - Interactive EDI syntax rules (comparable interactive rules).
- ISO 9735-4, -5, -6, -7, -8, -9, -10 - Other parts addressing reports, security, associated data, package transfer, key management and syntax service directories.
- UN/EDIFACT / UNTDID - Message design guidelines and directories that govern EDIFACT message content and maintenance.
By following ISO 9735-2:2002, implementers ensure predictable batch EDI behavior, improved interoperability, and clearer conformance criteria for EDIFACT exchanges.
Open preview (PDF)Electronic data interchange for administration, commerce and transport (EDIFACT) — Application level syntax rules (Syntax version number: 4, Syntax release number: 1) — Part 2: Syntax rules specific to batch EDI