Target Chargeback Code A038: Substitution (invoice-receipt difference)
What this deduction means
Ship a different item than the one invoiced and Target books the resulting invoice-vs-receipt difference as A038, a substitution deduction.
Typical penalty: Equal to the difference caused by the substituted item
Common causes
- Shipping a substitute item without correcting the invoice
- DPCI/UPC mismatch between the shipment and the invoice
- Unauthorized substitutions
How to prevent Target code A038
- Ship and invoice the exact item ordered, avoiding unauthorized substitutions unless Target approves them
- Match DPCI/UPC on the invoice to the physical shipment
Related EDI transactions
Source
iNymbus: Target Deduction Codes Explained (secondary industry source) (Accessed 2026-07-09; pending official Partners Online verification)
Frequently asked questions
What is Target chargeback code A038?
Ship a different item than the one invoiced and Target books the resulting invoice-vs-receipt difference as A038, a substitution deduction.
How much does Target code A038 cost?
Typical penalty: Equal to the difference caused by the substituted item
How do I prevent Target chargeback code A038?
Ship and invoice the exact item ordered, avoiding unauthorized substitutions unless Target approves them Match DPCI/UPC on the invoice to the physical shipment
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