Common Data Syncs in SAP ERP to eCommerce Integration Explained
3 min read ● Silk Team
Common Data Exchanges for SAP ERP to eCommerce Integration
When businesses implement SAP ERP to eCommerce integration, the objective is more than simply connecting two systems. The goal is to build an environment that is accurate, automated, and capable of delivering real-time operational insight. Understanding which data exchanges occur between systems is essential to avoiding costly surprises during implementation.
Each data exchange creates a critical connection between your storefront and backend operations. Below are the most common and important data exchanges in a typical SAP ERP to eCommerce integration.
1. Product Data Exchange
Product data is often the first integration point.
What is Synchronized:
- SKUs
- Product titles and descriptions
- Category information
- Product pricing
- Variant attributes (size, color, etc.)
- Tax classifications
In most environments, SAP ERP acts as the system of record for product data. Updates made in SAP are reflected in the eCommerce platform.
Why It Matters: Consistent product data eliminates pricing discrepancies, reduces duplicate entries, and ensures customers see accurate product information.
2. Inventory Data Exchange
Inventory synchronization is typically the most business-critical integration.
What is Synchronized:
- Available stock quantities
- Inventory by warehouse
- Reserved or allocated stock
- Backorder status
When a customer places an order online, inventory is reduced in SAP and reflected immediately in the eCommerce platform.
Why It Matters: Accurate inventory prevents overselling, reduces order cancellations, and increases customer confidence.
3. Order Data Exchange
Order data flows from the eCommerce platform into SAP ERP to create official sales transactions.
What is Synchronized:
- Customer details
- Products ordered
- Quantities
- Prices and discounts
- Tax and shipping fees
- Payment status
Once synced, SAP automatically creates a sales order and initiates fulfillment workflows.
Why It Matters: Automated order creation eliminates manual entry, accelerates processing, and ensures financial accuracy.
4. Customer Data Exchange
Customer data may synchronize in one or both directions depending on business requirements.
What is Synchronized:
- Billing and shipping addresses
- Contact information
- Account numbers
- Purchase history
- Tax identification numbers (for B2B)
In B2B environments, SAP often serves as the master system for customer records.
Why It Matters: A single customer view improves reporting, personalization, and service quality.
5. Price and Promotion Data Exchange
Organizations with complex pricing structures require synchronized pricing data.
What is Synchronized:
- Base product pricing
- Tiered pricing
- Customer-specific pricing
- Promotions and discounts
- Currency exchange rates
SAP often manages pricing logic, especially in B2B environments.
Why It Matters: Ensures customers see accurate pricing and prevents revenue loss from misaligned price displays.
6. Financial and Payment Data Exchange
Financial integration allows real-time accounting updates without manual reconciliation.
What is Synchronized:
- Total revenue
- Taxes collected
- Payment confirmations
- Refunds and credits
- Invoice data
Why It Matters: Finance teams gain immediate visibility into company performance without relying on spreadsheets or delayed uploads.
7. Shipping and Fulfillment Data Exchange
Once orders are processed in SAP, fulfillment updates flow back to the eCommerce platform.
What is Synchronized:
- Shipment confirmations
- Tracking numbers
- Delivery status updates
Customers receive automated notifications regarding shipment status.
Why It Matters: Transparency improves customer relationships and reduces support inquiries.
Final Thoughts
The success of SAP ERP to eCommerce integration depends on clearly defining and implementing these core data exchanges. Product data, inventory, orders, customers, pricing, financial information, and shipping updates all contribute to a seamless operational flow.
When implemented properly, integration delivers more than automation — it provides control, accuracy, and scalability. Understanding these data exchanges before implementation ensures your organization builds a solution that supports long-term growth rather than creating future limitations.