How to check a DDEX file
- Choose your ERN XML file, or paste the XML. Use a sample to see what a clean message looks like.
- The checker detects the message type and ERN version from the namespace (for example
http://ddex.net/xml/ern/43) and checks it straight away. - Fix each error — stores are likely to reject the delivery — and review the warnings.
- Use Copy report to send the list to your distributor or developer.
What gets checked
| Area | Checks |
|---|---|
| XML | Well-formed XML with the exact line of any syntax error; DDEX namespace; MessageSchemaVersionId matches it. |
| Header | MessageId, sender and recipient DDEX Party IDs (DPID), ISO 8601 creation time, test vs live message. |
| Resources | Unique references, titles, ISRC format and duplicates, ISO 8601 durations (PT3M45S), front cover image. |
| Releases | An ICPN (UPC/EAN) or GRid, title, display artist, release type, genre, ℗ and © lines. |
| References | Every release resource, deal release and party/label reference points to something that exists; unused resources. |
| Deals | Commercial model, use type, territory and a valid start date on every deal. |
Common reasons stores reject ERN deliveries
- ISRCs with hyphens or spaces — DDEX expects the 12-character form, e.g.
INA012500001. - Durations like 3:45 instead of ISO 8601
PT3M45S. - Broken references — a track listed in a release (A5) that isn't in the resource list, or a deal pointing at a release reference that doesn't exist.
- Missing cover art or deals — without a FrontCoverImage and at least one deal, the release can't go live.
Before you deliver
This checker catches the business-level problems above. It doesn't replace validation against the official DDEX XSD schema or a store's own ingestion rules, so run those too before delivering to a new partner. Your XML is checked in your browser and never uploaded.
Frequently asked questions
What is DDEX ERN?
DDEX (Digital Data Exchange) is the music industry's standard for exchanging metadata. ERN (Electronic Release Notification) is the XML message labels and distributors send to stores and streaming services to deliver a release — its tracks, artists, identifiers, artwork and the deals under which it can be sold or streamed.
Which ERN versions are supported?
ERN 3.8.x (e.g. 3.8.2) and ERN 4.x (4.1, 4.2, 4.3). The version is detected automatically from the XML namespace, such as http://ddex.net/xml/ern/43.
Is this the same as XSD schema validation?
No. This checker reads the message and verifies the things stores most often reject: well-formed XML, required header fields, ISRC and GRid formats, ISO durations and dates, that every resource, release, deal and party reference points to something that exists, cover art, genre and ℗/© lines. Also run the official DDEX XSD (and any store-specific checks) before delivery.
Is my XML uploaded?
No. The file is read and checked entirely in your browser — it never leaves your device, so unreleased metadata stays private.
Last updated: 24 September 2026Suggest an improvement · Report a problem