Learn all about:

*   Walmart’s new excellence program, SQEP
*   The phases of SQEP
*   Details on Phase 1 of SQEP
*   The meaning of “PO accuracy”

* * *

Walmart has announced that it is implementing a new “**Supplier Quality Excellence Program (SQEP)**” to aid suppliers with supply chain compliance.

What Is SQEP?
-------------

Walmart has designed the Supplier Quality Excellence Program (SQEP)  to create a “100% accurate” supply chain, including purchase order accuracy, barcoding and labeling, packaging, loading, and pallet quality. Walmart built the program with expectations of 100% PO accuracy and the receipt of defect-free products.

Walmart’s vision for SQEP is to create quality and excellence for its customers. Walmart believes that this program will increase its supply chain’s efficiency and quality, giving the retailer a distinct advantage over its competitors. Its mission is to achieve the lowest cost, best-in-class supply chain by removing impediments, defects, and inadequacies.

SQEP’s purpose is to reduce supply chain costs overall, not to increase them. The program should improve order accuracy and visibility into orders’ production, procurement, and logistics. The idea is to create “First Time Quality” (FTQ), meaning Walmart receives the ordered items from its suppliers when they have agreed to deliver them. Walmart is applying this program to all of its distribution networks, including e-commerce fulfillment centers.

Walmart hopes that the program will create a “best-in-class supplier experience” and includes a rigorous education program. It will implement a dashboard portal to track SQEP progress, PO accuracy, and performance results. The portal will be available on **November 2, 2020** (otherwise known as Walmart Week 40 FY 2021).

Phases of SQEP Implementation
-----------------------------

Walmart is implementing SQEP in four phases:

1.  Accuracy and Advanced Ship Notice
2.  Barcode and Labeling
3.  Load Quality, Label Quality, and Packaging
4.  Scheduling and Transportation

As of September 1, 2020, the retailer has only released details about Phase 1, which begins **February 1, 2021**. A pilot version of the program will start on November 1, 2020, and will run through January 2021. SupplierWiki will provide more information about the SQEP program as it progresses.

### Phase 1a – Item Data Accuracy

Suppliers may already be familiar with **Item 360** as a way of uploading information about new and existing products. **Beginning September 15, 2020, all item setup and maintenance must go through Item 360**. Suppliers can change warehousing data, case pack sizes, item images, and other data in this portal in Retail Link, under “Apps.” Walmart requires suppliers to register for training in Item 360.

Walmart Import items and pharmacy products may continue to use the Online Item File found in Retail Link.

### Phase 1b – PO Accuracy

**Starting November 2, 2020, suppliers may use the SQEP portal to review POs** for accuracy and track down what Walmart calls “defects.” (A pilot version of the portal will be available on October 15, 2020, to limited suppliers.) The portal will have a “detailed drill-down” analysis of PO performance, and it will display a score and defects-per-million metric.

**The SQEP standards are available in Retail Link Supplier Academy.** Walmart expects its suppliers to review these standards as soon as possible. Additionally, the retailer asks suppliers to create an “**accuracy action plan**” for US stores and e-commerce deliveries. This plan should take into account goals and metrics the supplier may already be tracking, such as:

*   **Quality Assurance:** Suppliers should track errors in their supply chain and attempt to correct them. Additionally, they should avoid item substitutions and, instead, work with their replenishment managers on updating POs to avoid SKU inaccuracies.
*   **Accountability:** Suppliers should have set goals in mind for their supply chain (especially if they are already compliant with OTIF objectives). They should hold the individual links accountable for poor picking standards and over- or underfilled orders. Walmart expects orders to arrive exactly as they requested on the PO.
*   **Item File Accuracy:** Suppliers should update their items within Item 360 when case or warehouse pack sizes change. They should also make sure they stay on top of changes to their items within that portal. The Item File should always match what the supplier is shipping.

Walmart will begin to hold suppliers accountable for PO accuracy starting February 1, 2021. During this phase, Walmart will start deducting fees from invoices for defective orders. There will be an administrative fee as well as a handling fee per unit for these invoices. Walmart will determine this fee after the pilot period. (SupplierWiki will update this article as soon as we have this information.)

### Phase 1c – Advanced Ship Notice (ASN)

Starting February 1, 2021, **all domestic POs shipping to Walmart distribution and fulfillment centers** will need an [**EDI 856: Advanced Ship Notice (ASN)**](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/edi-856-ship-notice-manifest/)**.** Pharmacy, Direct Store Delivery (DSD), and Direct Store via Distribution Center (DSDC) are exempt. These POs will continue with the current program.

**Walmart will require ASNs** to improve inventory visibility. Walmart will post updated ASN guidelines in Supplier Academy on October 1, 2020.

Update To ASN Compliance
------------------------

Walmart will require ASNs to improve inventory visibility. Walmart requires three qualities for its ASNs as submitted by the supplier: 

*   Data accuracy
*   Completeness
*   Timeliness

### Data Accuracy

ASNs must have accurate data on them. This means that all ASNs must have the same lines that were on the **original Purchase Order (850)**. The ASN lines must match for each line item that was on the PO. Walmart has stated that while this is a requirement for “accurate” ASNs, the retailer will not consider ASNs with inaccurate PO lines invalid for SQEP purposes and, therefore, these ASNs will not incur penalties.

ASNs must also have accurate item information on them. This includes such data as item UPCs and GTINs, pack size information, and expiration dates. This information allows Walmart to ensure that the ASN matches the PO for each item ordered. 

ASNs without accurate item information will result in SQEP penalties. The item information must also match the item data listed in the item file in Item360.

ASNs must have accurate and true quantity information. The quantities listed on the ASN must match the quantities requested on the PO. Additionally, the quantities on the ASN must completely match the quantities in the physical shipment. Otherwise, the order will incur SQEP penalties.

### Completeness

All ASNs received by Walmart must be complete. ASN completeness means that the ASN matches the guidelines for a proper ASN listed on Supplier Academy with all of the data required.

Suppliers should also set up Functional Acknowledgments (EDI 997) and Application Advices (EDI 824) to monitor ASN transmissions. An EDI 997 will show when Walmart’s EDI system receives the ASN. 

Walmart transmits EDI 824s when there is an issue with the data in an ASN. For example, if the global location number for the Walmart store is invalid, Walmart will send an EDI 824 stating such. Typically, such errors will occur with manually entered orders that skip fields or have inaccurate information.

If a supplier submits an ASN that is incomplete, Walmart will invoice fines for that infraction. Suppliers who receive an EDI 824 typically have 24 hours during which to correct the invalid ASN and resubmit it to Walmart.

### Timeliness

Walmart expects to receive ASNs before the physical shipment arrives at the distribution center or fulfillment center. Valid ASNs should arrive before the trailer doors close and the DC or FC finalizes the shipment.

Walmart considers an ASN “On Time” if a valid EDI transaction occurs before the gate during the time of the physical shipment’s arrival at the DC or FC.

### SQEP Penalties for ASNs

Walmart will fine for ASNs based on a comparison of the PO to the physical shipment. There are two defect types that may occur with unacceptable ASNs:

*   **ASN Not Downloaded:** This defect occurs when the shipment does not have a corresponding ASN. This may occur due to an issue with the EDI provider or VAN or because the supplier has not properly set up their EDI connection.
*   **ASN Mismatch:** The items or quantities on the ASN do not match what was in the physical shipment. Such issues may cause errors on an EDI 824, which would mean that Walmart may not receive the valid ASN on time.

Walmart now expects a complete, accurate, and timely EDI 856 for each and every shipment to its distribution centers and its fulfillment centers. The key here is that the item information and quantity values on the ASN match what Walmart ordered on the PO and has received.

What Does PO Accuracy Mean?
---------------------------

Walmart defines **PO accuracy** as the receipt of items as ordered within the delivery window. In other words, the items must arrive at their destination DC in good condition as listed in the PO. Walmart will still allow PO changes. Suppliers should keep an open channel of communication with their replenishment managers.

The main idea of PO accuracy is that items received at their destination distribution center must match the items ordered on the PO in good condition (“defect-free”). Walmart expects suppliers to invoice for the items they shipped as ordered. In other words, **do not overfill, short-ship, or ship substitutions.** 

Walmart measures PO accuracy by dividing the number of defects in the shipment by the number of PO lines subtracted from 100% to find the percentage of accuracy. 

![1.jpeg](https://media.graphcms.com/Yu0w0jhSGeiPhTx9TTsQ)

*PO Accuracy = 100% - (number of defects divided by number of PO lines)*

### Why Is PO Accuracy Important?

Walmart is taking PO accuracy very seriously. It considers accuracy to be the oil in its supply chain. Its sources say that millions of dollars of orders are sitting daily in “problem” freight (i.e., orders that contain items that are not sellable). It estimates that receiving associates log thousands of tickets daily for orders that are defective and have problems with processing due to PO inaccuracies.

PO inaccuracies cause a **waterfall effect** where receiving associates must remove defective merchandise and notify the problem freight department. This ticket goes to another associate who must create a problem freight ticket to send to the Walmart Home Office for disposition. Once HO resolves the issue, the problem freight associate must scan and label the order to pass it back to the DC or FC to continue processing.

### How Do I Improve My PO Accuracy?

PO accuracy applies to all links in the supply chain. Manufacturers must replenish the correct amount of products according to supply plans in an accurate and timely manner. Suppliers must ship the ordered amount of products without substitutions and according to the Item File. They also must ensure that their Item File is always up to date and reliable. Orders should arrive at the DCs on time and according to the PO, and the ordered products should be available for shipment.

Walmart has created a list of defects that can occur with POs. Avoiding these defects can improve accuracy and help suppliers avoid fees.

*   **Allocation Issue:** The supplier shipped an order to the wrong DC/FC type, specifically for facilities that do conveyable sorting versus those that can sort larger items.
*   **ASN Not Downloaded:** There was an issue with downloading the EDI 856 ASN report for DSDC orders.
*   **ASN Mismatch (Non-DSDC only)**: The ASN contained line items where the quantity on the ASN does not match what Walmart received.
*   **Canceled Line:** The supplier has shipped an item after Walmart canceled the line item on the PO.
*   **Canceled PO:** The supplier has shipped an entire PO after Walmart has canceled it.
*   **Date Issue:** The supplier has shipped an item that has expired or is otherwise not compliant with the date requirements listed on the PO.
*   **Haz-Mat/Compliance Flag:** The supplier has shipped a hazardous material without the proper documentation, markings, etc., or sent a hazardous material to a location that does not have the facilities to handle it.
*   **Imagery:** The supplier has incorrect or incomplete information in the Item File for e-commerce items only. This defect does not apply to brick-and-mortar suppliers.
*   **Item Not on PO:** The supplier has shipped an item that was not on the original PO, typically as a substitution.
*   **Item Set up:** The supplier has not set up the item correctly in the Item File, including missing or inaccurate information, specifically causing delays in processing or receiving.
*   **Load Infestation:** The carrier’s trailer contains mold, mildew, insects, or other foreign objects that can cause infestations.
*   **No ASN Label (DSDC only)**: Walmart received cases on which there were no **[Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC)](https://www.gs1us.org/DesktopModules/Bring2mind/DMX/Download.aspx?Command=Core_Download&EntryId=177)** labels. The SSCC should be in the MAN segment of the EDI 856.
*   **Not Walmart Freight:** The supplier has shipped items to a Walmart DC intended for another customer (e.g., Target or UNFI).
*   **Overage:** The supplier has shipped more items for a PO line item than what is on the original PO.
*   **Parent-Child:** The supplier has not successfully or properly linked the “child” item’s UPC with the “parent” item’s UPC in the Item File (e.g., individual colors of a brand of plastic cups).
*   **Quality Issue:** The supplier has shipped an item that has damage, is defective (i.e., is broken or doesn’t work), or is otherwise unsellable in its current condition.
*   **Recall/Withdrawl:** The supplier has shipped an item on which an agency has issued a recall, or the supplier (or a third party) has otherwise removed an ordered item from the shipment.
*   **Rework:** The DC has re-packaged the shipment in an unacceptable manner, including relabeling, [poly-bagging](https://www.uline.com/Cls_01/Bags-Poly-Plastic), boxing, taping, or other changes.
*   **Unscheduled (WFS Only):** The supplier did not schedule an appointment with the DC – applies only to Walmart Fulfillment Services.
*   **Wrong DC:** The supplier, carrier, or 3PL shipped the order to a DC that was not on the original PO.
*   **Wrong Pack:** The supplier has shipped an item or items with a vendor pack quantity that does not match what was on the original PO.

Walmart will implement the standards of **100% PO accuracy** in Phase 1 of SQEP starting on February 1, 2021. Walmart will begin fining for PO inaccuracies beginning on March 31, 2021, for February’s defective orders.

SQEP Fines
----------

Walmart will induce fines for defective ASNs and POs per purchase order. Each defect occurs on a PO level and a unit line level. For an inaccurate PO, Walmart fines $200 for the defective PO and $1 per handled line item. For an ASN defect, Walmart issues fines based on whether the PO is **Direct-to-Store, Shipped through DC​ (DSDC)**.

### PO Defect Fine Example

If a supplier receives a PO for **100** items but ships an overage of **120** items, then Walmart will fine the supplier $**200** plus an additional $**20** for each line item over the original PO quantity for a total of $**220**.

In another example, if a supplier receives a PO for **50** widgets and the supplier ships **25** broken widgets, **25** intact widgets, and **50** gadgets, then Walmart will submit a fine schedule in this way:

*   $**200** for the “Quality Issue” defect
*   $**200** for the “Item Not On PO” defect
*   $**1** for each broken widget for a total of $**25**
*   $**1** for each extra gadget for a total of $**50**

These defects and line items would come to a total of $**475**.

### ASN Defect Fines

If Walmart cannot download the ASN (“ASN Not Downloaded”), it will charge the supplier a fine. For DSDC POs, the fine is a **$200 flat fee per PO**. For non-DSDC POs, it is a **$25 flat fee per PO**.

Additionally, for non-DSDC POs with an ASN mismatch defect, there is no overall PO fee, but Walmart fines **$0.25 per case with mismatched quantities**.

Walmart plans to start issuing fines on March 31, 2021, for POs starting on February 1, 2021, for PO defects. For ASN issues, Walmart will issue fines on July 1, 2021. Suppliers can see their defective POs and ASNs in the SQEP Portal on Retail Link.

There will be a cap at the PO header level for SQEP fines such that the fine does not exceed **30% of total cost of goods sold (COGS)** on each defective PO.

In the event of an invalid SQEP chargeback, Walmart suppliers may use the High Radius portal to submit a dispute. This process is the same as with other Accounts Receivable Walmart deductions. To submit a dispute, suppliers should include:

*   PO number
*   Item number
*   Defect type
*   Distribution center
*   Impacted cases

Suppliers may obtain and review their order backup documentation and information in Retail Link on the **[SQEP Dashboard](https://retaillink.login.wal-mart.com/?resumePath=/as/8cgOY/resume/as/authorization.ping)**.

---

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Walmart’s New Supplier Quality Excellence Program (SQEP) – Phase 1

Supplier Quality Excellence Program (SQEP)

[SupplyPike](https://www.supplypike.com/) helps you fight deductions, increase in-stocks, and meet OTIF goals in the built-for-you platform, powered by machine learning.

SupplyPike

The SupplyPike Team

Learn about:

*   The OTIF Scorecard in Retail Link
*   Downloading and filtering data
*   Viewing your OTIF performance, charges, and purchase order details

* * *

With Walmart’s announcement of [**new changes to its On Time In Full program**](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/new-2020-walmart-otif-changes) in 2020, the retailer also rolled out a new app in its Retail Link software for suppliers.

The Retail Link OTIF Scorecard contains many options for analyzing your score and downloading data. This latest version of Walmart’s OTIF Scorecard is a much more user-friendly version than the previous one. 

Let’s walk through accessing the dashboard and the reports you can download.

The OTIF Scorecard
------------------

In Retail Link, select **Apps**, then select **On Time In Full (OTIF) Scorecard** to access the application.

![1.png](https://media.graphcms.com/A0HIQMrBQMWLvXSlp3NG)
_Retail Link – Apps_

Once you log into the landing page, you’ll see the **Summary** page with the below options across the top and down the left side of the page. Let’s cover them briefly.

![2.png](https://media.graphcms.com/rbz0AmlmTluMr5ySIbqH)

_Retail Link – OTIF Summary_

**Top Menu**

*   The **Performance** tab indicates how your business performed across the latest updated week.
*   The **Charges** tab provides visibility to all OTIF fines that Walmart has invoiced and shows future projections of non-invoiced POs.
*   The **Help** toggle displays a button that explains what action each chart or filter provides.
*   The **Filter** option is a global filter to customize data. You can also save up to 10 filter settings.
*   The **Download** option allows you to download the current page view as a CSV or PDF file.

**Left Side Menu**

*   The bars icon provides the same view as the Performance tab above.
*   The sheet icon provides downloadable PO Details.
*   The question mark (?) opens the frequently asked questions page.
*   The megaphone shows Walmart announcements. It will also display as a banner across the top of the page at login.

Downloading files
-----------------

The process for downloading files applies equally throughout the OTIF Scorecard. If the download button below is visible in the top right corner of a page, then the contents of that page are available for download.

![3.png](https://media.graphcms.com/tHjLQtzMTNivbKEEJQuA)

_OTIF Dashboard – Download button_

When you click the Download button from the Summary page, you’ll get the option to select CSV or PDF. 

![4.png](https://media.graphcms.com/O7La1pNFRhywMXLUvioL)

_Download options – CSV or PDF_

Downloading the Summary page as a PDF will return data as a chart.

![5.png](https://media.graphcms.com/WbrPrqMeQE27rmyFRtK5)

_Summary – Performance as a PDF report_

Downloading as CSV will return the data as a file with tabs included for each data set, such as accountability information and distribution center performance.

![6.png](https://media.graphcms.com/yuZSq2jNSkuCOAav8I2K)

_Summary – Performance as a CSV report_

Note – From the PO Details page, only the CSV download is available.

![7.png](https://media.graphcms.com/bD5t6VWQe2nmvVgZtStf)

OTIF Dashboard filters
----------------------

Let’s discuss filters and saving preferences. When you select the filter button, you’ll get the below filtering options:

*   Walmart Stores versus e-commerce
*   6 Digit Supplier number
*   9 Digit Supplier number
*   Vendor Pool ID number
*   Distribution Center Number
*   Freight Type (Prepaid or Collect)
*   Merchandising Alignment
*   Supplier Business Unit
*   Department
*   Category
*   Buyer ID

Use the dropdowns to filter the data you want to view. You can have as many filters as you want, and in all dropdowns, you may select multiple options.

Click the **Apply button** to execute. The page will load to reflect your selections. You’ll note there is now a number beside the filter, which indicates the total of filters applied to the current view

![8.png](https://media.graphcms.com/kYaJYAQ6uFS7YvCqzTLw)

_OTIF Dashboard – Filter indicator_

![9.png](https://media.graphcms.com/Qh7IlTZ3Se6jwhw01EXs)

_OTIF Dashboard – Filters applied view_

To remove your selections, click the **Reset button** at the bottom.

### Saving and deleting filters

You can **Save** any filter by clicking the **Save As button** and naming it. You can save up to 10 combinations.

To delete a saved filter:

1.  Select the filter you wish to delete
2.  Click the **Manage button** 
3.  Click the **Delete Filter button**
4.  On the popup window, click the **Yes Delete button**

![10.png](https://media.graphcms.com/qdBiHXoFQTODKv4Ssiim)

*Filters – Delete Filter button*

![11.png](https://media.graphcms.com/5JVxbprHQmWvrWx1EJ4b)

*Filters – Delete confirmation window*

Summary page – Performance section
----------------------------------

Let’s review the Summary page Performance section.

You can filter this page globally by using the **Filter** option in the top right corner, as described previously in the filtering section. Directly below the download button, you have a view of the current filters you have selected.

The download button works the same way as previously discussed in the Download section. You can choose to download to CSV or PDF. It’s important to note that filters applied will impact what data you can download. To pull all data for a page, ensure the Filters applied is “**Total Company**.”

![12.png](https://media.graphcms.com/dygrwCWSRcOsjQhQrsrr)

*Filters applied – Total Company*

The OTIF dashboard globally defaults to the latest Walmart week of data. In the “**Data displayed for**” dropdown, you can select historical weeks.

![13.png](https://media.graphcms.com/zjumfZjWQPq5TlTsKIhP)

*OTIF Dashboard – “Data displayed for” dropdown*

You can view the first two charts, **On Time Accountability** and **In Full Accountability**, historically by using the “**Week**” dropdown selection.

The third chart displays Accountability, On Time Variances, and Trend Analysis. Click each tab name to view these metrics. 

![14.png](https://media.graphcms.com/bBkRFHAQrKVBZkkEyaAr)

*OTIF Summary – Accountability View*

![15.png](https://media.graphcms.com/SfNA5BnOSgWkFuOIKlOS)

*OTIF Summary – On Time Variance*

![16.png](https://media.graphcms.com/9Xfh5IhBSSKiRLllw6B4)

*OTIF Summary – Trend Analysis*

**_[Related Reading: Walmart OTIF Metrics](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/walmart-otif-metrics)_**

Additionally, there is a “**Show Me**” chart with two dropdown menus to view these three metrics in greater detail.

![17.png](https://media.graphcms.com/FD7QLRXWS8u2DZIyJxhG)

*OTIF Summary – Show Me chart*

You may filter this chart in many ways. You can change the views from **Top 10** (showing your best-performing metrics) to **Bottom 10** (showing your worst-performing metrics).

You may apply these business filters:

*   6 Digit vendor number
*   9 Digit vendor number
*   Merchandising Alignment
*   Supplier Business Unit
*   Department
*   Category
*   Distribution Center Number

![18.png](https://media.graphcms.com/tgpsaKXhQkOqtPJdSoSL)

Lastly, the DC Performance is also filterable and provides a plethora of detail. You can filter by **Location**, **Metric**, and **Network**. You can also filter by **OnTime**, **In Full**, and **Collect Ready**.

You’ll see dots depicting DC locations, colored green or red, depending on performance status on the map. Click on the dot, and more details will populate to the right side of the map.

![19.png](https://media.graphcms.com/Cw3MmRp5RjaYLibovkGZ)

*OTIF Summary – DC Performance map*

Summary page – Charges section
------------------------------

While staying on the Summary page, let’s select the **“Charges”** button at the top of the page. As stated, Filters and Download functionality apply to this page as well.

Default is the latest week. The top chart provides a 13-month view of fines and additionally breaks it down by metric.

![20.png](https://media.graphcms.com/RtJkowfRStiXTHIlFPVX)

*OTIF Dashboard – Charges view*

The second-row chart provides a breakdown by **Accountability** and **Merchandising Alignment**. Additionally, the “**Show Me**” chart provides additional analysis detail.

![21.png](https://media.graphcms.com/2WZk2erS5yFPYMF9VTwo)

*Charges Breakdown by Accountability*

The third row is your “Trend Analysis.” This option provides a view of “All Metrics.” You can also filter by three 13WK (weeks) ranges and compare those to the same period Last Year.

![22.png](https://media.graphcms.com/AY1My3fRQNyDeW4vBtl0)

*Charges Summary page – Trend Analysis*

**_[Related Reading: OTIF Best Practices](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/otif-best-practices)_**

PO Details page
---------------

Now let’s move to the side menu, and look at the **sheet** icon. 

![23.png](https://media.graphcms.com/I3WBFIqUTsWLxlvJVTpA)

*Side menu – Sheet icon for PO Details*

This takes us to the **PO Details** page, where we have many options and views of the raw purchase order data used throughout the charts we’ve previously discussed. This page defaults to the latest OTIF completed fine month.

![24.png](https://media.graphcms.com/gmgBnr30SISWoPVFkKQL)

*OTIF App – PO Details page*

This page is filterable at many levels to ensure you have full access to every level of your data. As with the dashboard, you can filter by date using the dropdown. You can also use the global Filter and Download at the top right corner.

On this page, you can view the **PO Line Level** details, displaying the individual purchase order information, or view the **Receiver** details, which show the case counts.

For the PO Line Level view, you have the following options for filtering:

*   6 Digit Supplier number
*   9 Digit Supplier number
*   OMS PO Number
*   Order Date
*   MABD (Must Arrive By Date listed on the PO)
*   Cases Ordered
*   OTIF percentage score
*   On Time percentage score
*   In Full percentage score

For the Receiver view, you have the following options for filtering:

*   6 Digit Supplier number
*   9 Digit Supplier number
*   OMS PO Number
*   Order Date
*   MABD (Must Arrive By Date listed on the PO)
*   Cases that were early
*   Cases that were on time
*   Cases that were late

At the far right, you can select the three dots to open a dropdown, revealing more filter column options. These options are:

*   6 Digit Supplier number
*   Walmart Week
*   Supplier Name
*   Department
*   Category
*   9 Digit Supplier number
*   Host PO Number
*   OMS PO Number
*   Order Date
*   Channel Method Type
*   PO Type (manual or system-generated)
*   Cancel PO Flag
*   Manual PO Flag
*   PO Event Code
*   PO Line Number
*   Item name
*   Buyer ID
*   Freight Type (prepaid or collect)
*   Distribution Center Network
*   Distribution Center Number
*   Must Arrive By Date (MABD)
*   Original MABD
*   Adjusted MABD
*   11 to 11 Indicator
*   Consolidation Flag
*   Vendor Pool ID
*   Cancel Reason Code 
*   Confirm Shipment Date
*   Confirm Shipment Time
*   Original Cases Ordered
*   Adjusted Cases Ordered
*   Total Cases Ordered
*   Case Cost
*   Total Cost-of-Goods Sold (COGS)
*   OTIF score
*   On Time score
*   In Full score
*   Collect Ready score
*   Cases that were Early
*   Cases that were On Time
*   Cases that were Late
*   Cases that were Unfilled
*   Cases that were Overfilled
*   Cases that were Damaged
*   Cases that were Not-in-Full
*   Cases that had Late Routing (confirmed shipment)
*   Supplier Ship Point Cases
*   Prepaid Early Cases
*   Prepaid Late Cases
*   Prepaid Unscheduled Cases
*   Supplier Affected Cases
*   Supplier Affected COGS
*   Cases for Manual PO <45 Days
*   Cases for Delayed System POs
*   Cases for Canceled POs
*   Collect Early Cases
*   Collect Late Cases
*   Collect Unscheduled Cases
*   Walmart Affected Cases
*   Walmart Affected COGS

You can download all filtered data to a CSV file. You can also pin up to six filter views.

Additional pages
----------------

There are two additional pages in the OTIF App: **FAQs** and **Announcements**. 

The **Question Mark (?)** icon on the side menu links the Supplier Academy article on what OTIF is and how Walmart calculates it.

![25.png](https://media.graphcms.com/T8X5bAgyTpmSDICVKgAS)

*Side Menu – Question mark icon for FAQs*

The **megaphone** icon provides the latest announcements on what may influence OTIF data (e.g., hurricane activity causing store or DC closures) and what actions Walmart may be taking.

![26.png](https://media.graphcms.com/7qydUXgNSQ2TXRLHSy99)

*Side Menu – Announcements icon*

Tracking 3rd party data
-----------------------

While the new OTIF Scorecard has a lot of functionality, it still lacks drill-down analyses into how third parties affect OTIF performance. With SupplyPike’s [**OTIF Radar**](https://www.supplypike.com/otif), you can get in-depth, actionable insights into your data.

![27.png](https://media.graphcms.com/m9Uiul8gQFa1IUS0BU0Q)

*OTIF Radar – Drill-down analysis of carrier performance*

Export reports and send them to your third parties to negotiate fines settlements, better rates, and improved terms. Get started today to see how SupplyPike can improve your OTIF score!

![28.png](https://media.graphcms.com/SysZXI3gRM2ARR9HwwgF)

Navigating Walmart’s New OTIF Scorecard in Retail Link

Navigating Walmart’s New OTIF Scorecard in Retail …

Dennis Whitfield

Walmart's Accounts Payable Disputes Portal (APDP)

Learn More:

-   The Accounts Payable Disputes Portal (APDP)

-   The Transition from DCI to APDP

-   Deductions You Can Dispute in APDP

* * * * *

On September 27, 2021, Walmart launched the Accounts Payable Disputes Portal (APDP) app in Retail Link to replace Direct Commerce, Inc. (DCI). The intention behind this change is to provide more direct communication between dispute analysts and suppliers.

Only Good For Resale (GFR) suppliers with Retail Link accounts have access to this portal. Suppliers that support Goods Not For Resale (GNFR) will not have access to APDP.

Walmart rolled out APDP in waves according to suppliers' company names. Once suppliers got access to the app, they were no longer allowed to use DCI to submit new disputes.

What is Different About APDP?
-----------------------------

With APDP, Walmart has brought disputing "in-house" rather than outsourcing the development of their dispute portal to Direct Commerce. APDP is an app in Retail Link, accessed with a user's normal Retail Link credentials.

At a high level, the idea is the same as the old Direct Commerce portal. APDP is a portal where suppliers submit disputes for accounts payable deductions. However, there are some key differences in the way Walmart processed disputes with DCI:

-   Disputes are now tied directly to claims and invoice records in Retail Link.

-   Users now submit disputes at the claim line level, not the overall deduction level.

-   Walmart will approve or deny disputes per claim line.

What Deductions Can I Dispute in the APDP App?
----------------------------------------------

The types of deductions that suppliers can dispute in the new portal are specifically accounts payable deductions. These claims include [shortage deductions](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/what-are-the-most-common-walmart-deductions-codes), such as codes 22, 24, and 25. [Allowance deductions](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/how-walmart-allowances-can-go-wrong) are also AP deductions, such as those in the 50s range, 150, and 151.

Deductions that come as an invoice to the supplier are accounts receivable deductions (such as [Code 99: OTIF](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/walmart-otif-fundamentals)). Suppliers must go through their previous dispute process with these claims (i.e., documentation to their merchant team or going through High Radius).

However, some invoice deductions, such as tax corrections, cash discounts, and other remittance deductions that are not visible as claims, are disputable in the new portal. Suppliers may search these by the invoice number rather than the claim number.

Additionally, [Post Payment Audit (PPA)](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/what-is-a-post-audit-claim) deductions are not disputable in the APDP, and Remittance Advice deductions are not found in the accounts payable portal (APIS). 

[Related Reading: The Difference Between AP and AR Deductions](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/the-difference-between-an-ap-and-ar-deduction/)

### July 2023 Update

As of July 2023, Walmart asked suppliers to stop submitting disputes for a few notable deduction codes under certain circumstances. 

Returns Deductions can still technically be disputed in APDP if the PO does not flow through a returns center, but these are unlikely to have any claim lines to dispute. Some of these codes could be returns that go through a returns center that are no longer disputable: 

-   Code 44: Freight on Returned Merchandise/Returned Goods

-   Code 62: Labor and Handling Packaging/Repackaging

-   Code 92: Mdse. Return (Overstock/Recall)

-   Code 93: Mdse. Return (Damaged Merchandise)

-   Code 94: Goods Returned/Defective Merchandise 

-   Code 95 Mdse. Return (Wrong Item)

-   Code 97 Returned Goods (Handling Charge)

-   Code 120: WMTD Claims (MDSSE Return - Walmart Discretion Program)

Some Allowance Deductions

-   Code 58: DSDC Allowance (Other Allowances DA, EB, SD)

-   Code 69: Grocery Billback Allowance

The official announcement in Retail Link said that returns deductions "are no longer visible to dispute" in APDP. However, as mentioned above, some suppliers will still see them there if the returns charge does not go through a returns center. Instead of disputing in-app, suppliers were advised to consult the [Returns Charges and Disputes FAQs Page](https://supplierhelp.walmart.com/s/guide?article=000006407) for more specific information on how to dispute them now.

Code 58 (DSDC/ASN Allowances) deductions should be disputed through the Supply Chain Management team or the EBS Contact Center. 

Code 69 (Grocery Billback Allowances) deductions should be disputed through High Radius. 

Supporting Documentation for these disputes depends on the method of shipment:

-   Prepaid: provide a copy of the facility freight stamp indicating Walmart signed for the merchandise. 

-   Prepaid Dropped Trailer: provide the dropped trailer stamp showing the Walmart warehouse received the trailer. A carrier-signed BOL is required with a list of the PO numbers corresponding case quantities for each PO number. 

-   Collect: provide a carrier-signed BOL that also lists the PO numbers corresponding case quantities for each PO number. It must also include the trailer seal number if you ship full truck loads. The seal is not required if you are shipping LTL.

-   Small Parcel Shipments: Please provide POD for all invoiced cases. For a valid POD, you must provide individual signature pages. They must include the street delivery address, the PO number, and the signature of the person receiving the shipment.

### Complete List of Codes Disputable in the APDP App

Here is a complete list of the codes that Walmart has stated are disputable in the APDP app. Please note that some AP deductions not listed are disputable in the portal, but Walmart has not specified whether it will review these or not.

-   [Code 10: Price Difference as Documented (Allowance Difference)](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-10-price-difference-as-documented-allowance-difference/)

-   [Code 11: Pricing Overcharge (Price Difference between PO and Invoice)](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-11-pricing-overcharge-price-difference-between-po-and-invoice/)

-   [Code 13: Substitution Overcharge](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-13-substitution-overcharge/)

-   [Code 21: Concealed Shortages](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-21-concealed-shortages/)

-   [Code 22: Goods Billed not Shipped](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-22-goods-billed-not-shipped/)

-   [Code 24: Carton Shortage/Freight Bill Signed Short](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-24-carton-shortage-freight-bill-signed-short/)

-   [Code 25: No Merchandise Received for Invoice](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-25-no-merchandise-received-for-invoice/)

-   [Code 28: Carton Damaged/Freight Bill Signed Damaged](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-28-carton-damaged-freight-bill-signed-damaged/)

-   [Code 87: Other](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-87-other/)

-   Code 91: MDSE Destroyed, Damaged, Defective

-   [Code 150: Softgoods Defective Allowance](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/code-150-softgoods-defective-allowance/)

-   Code 151: Purchase Rebate Allowance

Here is a complete list of all [Walmart deductions codes](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/categories/walmart-deductions-codes), as well as [an ebook](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/unlock-your/deduction-codes-explained-guide) that can be downloaded for reference.

How to Get to the Accounts Payable Disputes Portal
--------------------------------------------------

To find the Accounts Payable Disputes Portal (APDP), authorized users can follow these steps:

1.  Open a browser window using Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.

2.  Clear the cache, cookies, and internet history to ensure the latest version of Retail Link will be viewable.

3.  Log into [Retail Link](https://retaillink2.wal-mart.com/rl_portal/#/).

4.  Click on "Apps" at the top and click on "APDP." Alternatively, look up "APDP" in the search bar at the top.

5.  The portal will open in a new tab.

To save this app to "Favorites," go to "Apps" at the top of the screen, find "APDP" in the apps list, and click the star next to the name.

[Related Reading: How to Dispute a Deduction in the APDP App](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/how-to-dispute-a-deduction-in-the-apdp-app)

In Sum
------

Walmart's decision to change its deduction disputes process brings it in-house into Retail Link and replaces Direct Commerce. Keeping the whole AP claim process in Retail Link should reduce the number of portals and apps suppliers must use.

However, suppliers should note that dispute resolution may not increase in speed, as Genpact is still in charge of reviewing disputes, and their process has stayed the same. Additionally, the number of codes suppliers may dispute in the APDP app is reduced, no longer including some Returns and Allowance deductions. 

Learn More With SupplierWiki
----------------------------

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--------------------------------

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[Meet with a SupplyPike team member](https://www.supplypike.com/schedule-a-demo) today to learn how our solution can protect your profits!

Walmart’s Accounts Payable Disputes Portal (APDP)

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