Solution
Datanorm: definition, structure and use
Datanorm is a data format widely used in Germany with which manufacturers and wholesalers pass item master data and prices on to their customers – above all to electrical and plumbing businesses. A Datanorm file contains item numbers, descriptions, units, texts and prices; the business imports it into its software instead of entering thousands of items by hand. Datanorm 4 and Datanorm 5 are the versions in common use.
Last updated: · Lavesy editorial team
Sound familiar?
- Wholesaler items are typed in one by one – with typos in number and price.
- Supplier price changes only show up on the invoice.
- Every program in the business has a different state of the item data.
How Lavesy helps
Master data in one step
Item number, description, unit, text and price come together from one file.
Keep prices current
A new file from the supplier shows which prices went up or down.
Supplier reference kept
The wholesaler’s item number is preserved – orders match their system.
Import in Lavesy
Lavesy reads Datanorm 4 per supplier, with a preview before applying and price history.
How it works
- 1Request or download the Datanorm file from your wholesaler’s customer portal.
- 2Choose the supplier in your software and upload the file.
- 3Review new items, changes and price changes in the preview.
- 4Apply – repeat when a new price list arrives.
Frequently asked questions
What is Datanorm?
A data format for exchanging item master data and prices between manufacturers, wholesalers and trade businesses. The file is imported into the business’s software.
How is a Datanorm 4 file structured?
As a text file of records of different record types, including a header record (V) with information about the file, item records (A), supplementary records (B) and price records (P). Discount and product groups come in their own records or files.
Which Datanorm versions exist?
Mainly Datanorm 4 and the newer Datanorm 5 are in circulation; older files in Datanorm 3 format still turn up occasionally.
Can Lavesy import Datanorm?
Yes, Datanorm 4 from the Business plan: per supplier, with preview and price history. Datanorm 3 and 5 are not read at the moment.