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) 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)**.

---

Let [**SupplyPike's SQEP Solution**](https://www.supplypike.com/) give you insight into your SQEP scorecard and even dispute invalid compliance fines for you!

[Schedule a demo](https://meetings.hubspot.com/supplypike/demo?__hstc=152691302.d6ade504e3dd0de3892426ea7c659c23.1663963649166.1681739850950.1681743339573.241&__hssc=152691302.5.1681743339573&__hsfp=3965019258) with the team today!

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

In this article, learn about:

-   The OTIF Scorecard in Retail Link

-   Downloading and filtering data

-   Viewing your OTIF performance, charges, and purchase order details

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

For Walmart suppliers, On Time In Full (OTIF) performance is an important measurement of supply chain efficiency, reliability, and the ability to meet Walmart's stringent delivery standards.

In Walmart's words, "OTIF provides unvarnished, accurate, readily available, one version of the truth visibility to our joint on time and in full supply chain performance. This enables all stakeholders to easily view current and trended inbound performance by various levels of the business."

So, how do you access your OTIF data in Retail Link? As Walmart continues to expand its supplier-facing portals, there are multiple ways to access OTIF data. Let's walk through accessing the dashboard and the reports you can download in Retail Link.

**Related Reading:**  *[2024 OTIF Performance Metrics](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/walmart-otif-metrics)*

How to Navigate the OTIF Scorecard in Retail Link
-------------------------------------------------

Login to Retail Link, select Apps, then select On Time In Full (OTIF) Scorecard to access the application. If you anticipate using this application often, you can click the star to mark it as a favorite.

![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfHkRkLkvxb9EelmsHNMa_gsRzj9w-Uf9QBeNu7Xd3-axT0gkTZyMZv80L4nKnjUSQ7Mg7Gbyf5NhmLClHgwEH20AvQ5CbHwrKs7DhBjziZ8IL8p_j5iJFPbEpZ1opAgrQMZCJxjg?key=7ZdZIfzQc8xCMfaVQZx05Qlj)

Once you log into the landing page, you'll see the Summary page with the options below across the top and down the left side:

### OTIF Scorecard Top Menu

1.  The **Performance** tab indicates how your business performed across the latest updated week.

2.  The **Charges** tab provides visibility to all OTIF fines that Walmart has invoiced and shows future projections of non-invoiced POs.

3.  The dropdown menu item labeled **OTIF** allows you to change views to display dashboards for SQEP, ASN, FMP, and CARS data.

4.  The **Filter** option is a global filter to customize data. You can also save up to 10 filter settings.

5.  The **Download** option allows you to download the current page view as a CSV or PDF file.

![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXe4vYEHNSYemSuPdfxD-OYvXR3xq_8LMf9PzbB_dMVgtHbBNWTpKiJJXofWfUcIF8BwASQsfOyIn17cJFy0pdGRGtNWxS475qg_p3ZIjTNk9b-Qn_x16EB-HhSi5z234GhGcqS16w?key=7ZdZIfzQc8xCMfaVQZx05Qlj)

### OTIF Scorecard Left Side Menu

-   The **bars icon** provides the same view as the Performance tab above.

-   The **sheet icon** provides downloadable PO Details.

-   The **grid icon** is the Common Compliance View, showing compliance across a variety of areas like OTIF, SQEP, ASN, etc.

-   The **letter icon** displays My Subscriptions

-   The **question mark** lets you see frequently asked questions and toggle Portal Help on and off.

-   The **megaphone icon** shows Walmart announcements. It will also display as a banner across the top of the page at login.

### How to Download OTIF Scorecard 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.**

When you click the Download button from the Summary page, you'll be able to select **CSV or PDF**.

![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdWwDpFPxVrqXwawTNHoUhzojUhmeHzf0fTjyae0GZX_YdbHcF6kbMVGozFq7qJLeq5XZEUQD0kicRCUFts7_CZJKwQpyI_xJWwsamEzmGLAQtve2CGOiTmTYV5kKOHt7VrdEwn?key=7ZdZIfzQc8xCMfaVQZx05Qlj)

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

![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXecPp1WjdhrdPouVMAOr3IWWkMDlCvLvjgtcTnDuVKFwmljdxh-MXtZkYtvhzSt8vgzQ8NtyJpcbIIePUtjbdejZIPkWrnJjIiSzRjmAF4LKWhZXgLEnU-wtlIGSZCvGRyUPcHYIw?key=7ZdZIfzQc8xCMfaVQZx05Qlj)

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 (see example below).

![](https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXdnnhYmYgSkJE5e-vxwR62Hc_YnOvkRF5gatmOTvVTv_7X3-UUFfZ-cTZImAiBpPgWOIhzQ5XkvF1b-4bTFGFkf00C18wGs8ij5Zeqh3D0aV6sSXwIf4KcmqRPZxcSMYG7JLVyU_Q?key=7ZdZIfzQc8xCMfaVQZx05Qlj)

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

### How to Use OTIF Scorecard Filters

The filters and saving preferences within the OTIF dashboard allow you to customize your view, streamline data analysis, and focus on the metrics that matter most to your supply chain performance.

When you select the filter button, you can choose between WMT Stores (Walmart Stores) and e-Commerce.

Choosing WMT Stores (Walmart Stores) displays the following filter options:

-   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

Choosing eCommerce displays the following filter options:

-   6 Digit Supplier Number

-   9 Digit Supplier Number

-   Distribution Center/Fulfillment 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 you may select multiple options in all dropdowns.

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

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

The filter functionality works the same way across various tabs of the application, although you may see slightly different filter options depending on the specific context or data set available in each tab.

### How to Save and Delete 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

Frequently Asked Questions about the OTIF Scorecard
---------------------------------------------------

**Q: Why isn't all the data downloading when I click Download?**

A: This issue may be caused by previously saved filters limiting the data. To clear any selections, click the Reset button at the bottom of the Filter menu. Afterward, ensure the Filters Applied field on the main page displays Total Company to include all data.

**Q: How do I view historical OTIF data?**

A: The OTIF dashboard defaults to displaying data for the most recent Walmart week. To view historical weeks, use the Data displayed for the dropdown menu to select your desired timeframe.

**Q: Where can I find PO level OTIF data?**

A: Navigate to the PO Details section in the left-hand navigation menu (look for the sheet icon). Once there, use the Performance and Charges toggles at the top left of your screen to access PO Line Level data for each respective category.

**Q: Can I compare current metrics to previous periods?**

A: Yes, the Trend Analysis chart under the Charges section allows you to compare data across three 13-week ranges and against the same period last year.

**Q: How do I interpret the DC Performance map?**

A: The map displays Distribution Center locations using colored dots to indicate performance status. Click on a dot to see detailed information about that DC. Use the legend to understand the performance range:

-   Red: 0%--60%

-   Dark pink: 60%--70%

-   Pink: 70%--80%

-   Light pink: 80%--90%

-   Green: 90%--100%

**Q: What is the difference between metrics in the Performance tab and the Charges tab?**

A: Metrics in the Performance and PO Details tabs include non-compliant Walmart accountable cases/eaches. In contrast, the Charges tab only represents individual supplier performance and excludes non-compliant Walmart accountable cases/eaches.

**Q: What are "non-compliant Walmart accountable cases/eaches"?**

A: These are instances where Walmart, rather than the supplier, is accountable for non-compliance with OTIF targets. These metrics are included in the Performance and PO Details tabs but excluded from the Charges tab.

**Q: Where do I find my international OTIF scorecard?**

A: International OTIF data is located in a different application. To access it, go to Retail Link > Apps > OTIF Scorecard Intl. 2.0.

**Q: Where do I find OTIF data for Sam's Club?**

A: Sam's Club OTIF data is located in a different application. To access it, go to Retail Link > Apps > Sams OTIF Next Gen.

How to Access OTIF Data in Supplier One
---------------------------------------

Walmart's Supplier One was created with the goal of streamlining some of the more siloed features of Retail Link to be able to introduce a universal system of prioritization for supplier action. As Walmart continues to roll out new features and functionality within Supplier One, you can now access OTIF data within the app.

**To view your OTIF data within Supplier One:**

1.  Navigate to the left-hand menu and select Performance > Scorecard.

2.  From this screen, you'll see an overview of your OTIF scores.

3.  Click View Report next to your score to open the OTIF Scorecard application for a more detailed analysis.

Stay Connected with SupplierWiki
--------------------------------

Did you find this resource helpful? SupplierWiki is dedicated to empowering Walmart suppliers with essential insights and tools for success. [Sign up for our weekly newsletter](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/) to receive supplier-specific updates, resources, and content directly to your inbox!

Get Better with SupplyPike
--------------------------

Managing Walmart deductions doesn't have to be complex. SupplyPike offers cutting-edge software to help suppliers dispute deductions, maximize cash flow, and uncover critical data insights.

[Schedule a call today](https://www.supplypike.com/schedule-a-demo) to learn how SupplyPike can save you time and help you recover your hard-earned money!

How to Navigate Walmart's OTIF Scorecard in Retail Link

Bekah Tatem

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. 

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

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