DDEX Import and Export

Updated July 2026.

Yes — LabelGrid imports releases using the DDEX (Digital Data Exchange) ERN XML standard, either as a one-time catalog import or as a continuous import feed. This advanced feature is available on API plans. LabelGrid supports DDEX ERN 3.8.2, 4.3.0, 4.3.1, and 4.3.2, and supports the DDEX standard without being a DDEX consortium member.

Who this guide is for

This guide is for labels, distributors, and platform operators on an API plan who want to export releases from their own system and deliver them to LabelGrid via DDEX XML. You should have:

• A LabelGrid account on an API plan
• A system that can generate DDEX ERN XML
• Audio files and artwork ready for delivery
• Familiarity with XML and the DDEX standard

Supported DDEX versions

These are the ERN versions the LabelGrid importer accepts for inbound delivery. Each version is identified by its XML namespace (the xmlns:ern value on the root NewReleaseMessage).

Version	Namespace	Status	Notes
ERN 4.3.2	http://ddex.net/xml/ern/432	Recommended	Latest supported import version — use this for new integrations. Adds AI attribution (ContainsAI / AiContribution / SpecialContributor), DisplayGenre, and the complex Role form (introduced in 4.3.1)
ERN 4.3	http://ddex.net/xml/ern/43	Supported
ERN 4.1.1	http://ddex.net/xml/ern/411	Supported
ERN 3.8.2	http://ddex.net/xml/ern/382	Supported	Legacy version for older catalog migrations

We recommend using ERN 4.3.2 for all new import integrations. See ERN 4.3.2 in the XML reference for the root element, schema location, and the field additions over 4.3.

Import types

Type	Description
One-time catalog import	Migrate your existing catalog from another distributor
Continuous import feed	Ongoing delivery of new releases as they’re created

DDEX import guides

Guide	What it covers
Release metadata	Required and optional release-level fields
Track metadata	Track fields, contributors & credits, splits & ownership
Validation	Formatting standards, common mistakes, pre-submission checklists
XML reference	ERN 4.3.2 / 4.3 structure, annotated examples, field mapping table

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FAQ

”Does LabelGrid support DDEX import?”

Yes — LabelGrid imports releases using the DDEX (Digital Data Exchange) ERN XML standard, either as a one-time catalog import or as a continuous import feed. DDEX import is available on API plans. LabelGrid supports the DDEX standard but is not a DDEX consortium member.

”Which DDEX ERN versions does LabelGrid support?”

LabelGrid supports DDEX ERN 3.8.2, 4.3.0, 4.3.1, and 4.3.2, with 4.3.2 recommended for new integrations. LabelGrid supports these standards and is not a member of the DDEX consortium.

”Can I use DDEX to migrate my catalog to LabelGrid?”

Yes. A one-time DDEX catalog import is designed for migrating an existing catalog from another distributor. Reuse your existing ISRCs and UPCs with matching metadata so DSPs preserve your streams and playlists, and confirm your LabelGrid releases are live before taking the catalog down elsewhere.

”Does LabelGrid export or deliver via DDEX?”

Yes — LabelGrid uses the DDEX ERN message suite to deliver releases and takedowns to DSPs on your behalf. Delivery to stores is handled automatically as part of distribution; the DDEX import feature here covers bringing releases into LabelGrid.

”What do I need to set up DDEX import?”

You need a LabelGrid account on an API plan, a system that can generate DDEX ERN XML, your audio and artwork ready for delivery, and familiarity with XML and the DDEX standard. Contact support to enable DDEX import and complete technical onboarding.

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Related

Learn more about LabelGrid’s DDEX delivery and ERN feed generation on our website. See also Bulk Upload and Large-Catalog Migration and Transferring Your Catalog.

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Need help?

If you need assistance with DDEX integration, contact our support team with your technical requirements.