For most small distributors, a signed-in B2B portal is the faster path for dealers who reorder with account prices, while EDI stays for partners that mandate document sets. Week one on Parcel Build is a first working portal path for known accounts, not an EDI VAN replacement. Flat $5,000/mo. You own the code. See custom software for wholesalers. Start a free 30-day build if the long-tail portal path is the named gap.
When EDI is non-negotiable versus when it is cost theater
Some trading partners require EDI document sets. That mandate is real. For everyone else, forcing EDI can mean months of mapping work for dealers who only need login, account prices, and a clear order path.
The channel choice is not ownership theater. It is which path each segment can actually use. Mandated partners keep EDI. The long tail often needs a portal first.
What a week-one portal path should prove for the long-tail accounts
Signed-in ordering for known accounts. Account prices that match what sales already quotes. Easy requests with a clear exception route when something needs a human.
On Parcel Build, week one is a first working version of that portal path. Flat $5,000/mo. You own the code.
What stays out of month one
Defer a full EDI mapping suite. Defer every trading-partner certification. Month one proves the portal path for accounts that will never adopt EDI. Mandated EDI partners can stay on the channel they already require.
FAQ
Can a portal and EDI coexist for different customer segments?
Yes. Many small distributors keep EDI for mandated partners and put the long tail on a signed-in portal. The channels serve different account patterns.
Does choosing a custom portal mean we must rip out EDI later?
No. A portal for known accounts does not require removing EDI where partners still mandate it. Week one is additive for the long tail.
Next step
If EDI versus a B2B portal for small distributors is what feels hardest, start a free 30-day build. Name that gap on the form. We scope a free 30-day build on that problem: first working version in week one, flat $5,000/mo after if you want to continue.