How to integrate shipping API for eCommerce and logistics

Every time a customer places an order, tracks a package, schedules a pickup, or receives delivery updates – it happens thanks to shipping APIs for ecommerce linking your business systems directly to carriers. The global revenue for logistics APIs will reach USD 5,230.4 million within five years due to an explosive 19.8% growth rate – another clear signal that you should get an efficient API on board, too, to stay ahead of the raging competition. 

In this guide, we'll break down exactly how to use APIs in logistics to optimize your supply chain operations, slash manual workloads, and delight customers with real-time information. We will compare parcel couriers, 3PL companies, last mile delivery providers, trucking carriers, and move further from the ground to explore how to use APIs to ship by sea and air. At the end of the read, you’ll know your ultimate providers and be prepared to jump into the future of supply.

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Comparing top parcel courier APIs

What is a shipping API? A shipping API is a tool that allows businesses to integrate shipping services into their systems. It helps automate tasks like calculating shipping rates, tracking packages, and generating labels.

UPS APIs

Shipping API meaning becomes crystal clear when you see how UPS has organized their digital toolkit. With over a century in the package delivery business, UPS has built a comprehensive set of digital connections that work for businesses of all sizes.

The UPS shipping API offering comes in three flavors — XML, Web service, and JSON — making it flexible for different tech setups. The best part? These tools don't cost anything to use. You just need to sign up on the UPS website, grab the UPS API documentation for whichever APIs you need, and request your access key. Here are the types of API you get:

• Shipping/rating APIs for validating addresses.
• Package pickup scheduling.
• Label printing and shipping orders.
• Dangerous goods verification.
• Delivery options and transit time comparisons.

Their developer support includes a Resource Center and community forums where you can troubleshoot issues and learn implementation tricks from others who've been there.

UPS supply chain APIs

UPS supply chain solutions (UPS SCS) offers deeper logistics API integration for businesses with more complex needs. They handle everything from freight forwarding to warehousing, distribution, and customs clearance.

Their API Portal connects your systems directly to their logistics infrastructure, letting you manage warehouse operations and track international shipments without leaving your own software. Security is serious here — they use two-factor authentication and offer multiple protection options like API keys, OAuth2, JWT, Certificates, or HTTP basic authentication for:

• Warehouse order creation.
• Advance shipment notice generation.
• Inventory querying within warehouses.
• Shipment order status checking.
• Advance shipment notice status tracking.

For businesses moving beyond simple parcel delivery into wholesale distribution or manufacturing, these tools provide the backbone for smooth supply chain operations.

DHL APIs

The digital connection offerings from DHL bring global reach to your fingertips. Though founded in the US, DHL now operates as part of Deutsche Post from Germany, giving it unique worldwide coverage — even to countries under US embargoes.

DHL's API catalog is organized by function rather than size, making it easier to find exactly what you need. Their developer portal gives you free access to credentials and integration materials after a simple registration process. Their ship API options include: 

• Location finder tools for pickup and drop-off points.
• Shipment tracking capabilities.
• Document management for freight forwarding.
• Label generation utilities.
• eCommerce solutions for European operations.
• Duty and tax calculators for cross-border shipments.

DHL APIs follow the Open API 2.0 specification in RESTful/JSON format, with authentication methods that vary by which specific tools you're using. For most eCommerce applications, they use OAuth 2.0 and JSON formatting over secure HTTP connections.

DHL supply chain APIs

With 1,400+ warehouses across more than 55 countries, DHL Supply Chain topped the 2019 rankings for third-party logistics providers. Their API approach is similar in structure but focused on enterprise-scale operations.

Their portal provides three types of API integration, each designed to connect different parts of your operations with their global infrastructure. All their APIs use REST architecture with OAuth 2.0 authentication and JSON formatting over secure HTTPS connections for this workflow:

• Shipment tracking API monitors order status across the supply chain.
• Transportation management interfaces with their TMS for delivery order placement.
• Warehouse management connects to WMS systems for complete inventory control.

These tools let you manage everything from inventory and procurement to returns processing, outbound order picking, packing, and dispatching — all without leaving your own business systems.

FedEx APIs

With a fleet of planes that'll make aviation geeks drool, FedEx shipping API offers small and mid-sized online stores worldwide access to their famous overnight delivery network. FedEx Web Services plugs their shipping muscle directly into your website or business system without breaking a sweat. Your customers get real-time shipping options while you manage everything behind the scenes — all through the same digital pipeline. Here’s what it lets you do:

• Get instant shipping quotes.
• Create and print shipping labels on demand.
• Track packages throughout their journey.
• Handle customer returns smoothly.
• Generate detailed shipping reports.

The tech side is straightforward — these tools use HTTP and XML with OAuth 2.0 handling the security bits. After a registration with Web Services, you'll get free access to their Developer Resource Center and API Catalog with all the docs and FAQs you'll need to get things rolling.

FedEx supply chain APIs

Moving beyond API shipping connectors, FedEx Supply Chain (formerly GENCO) earned its spot as a Top 3PL company of 2018 by focusing on brains over brawn. They don't own all the warehouses and trucks — instead, they coordinate everything through smart tech and strategic partnerships.

Their open APIs unlock the full FedEx platform for mid-sized to large businesses, manufacturers, and wholesalers who need more than just basic shipping. These tools let your systems talk directly to theirs, cutting out manual processes and giving you complete visibility:

• Schedule facility appointments.
• Create, update, and track fulfillment orders.
• Monitor shipments across the supply chain.
• Generate shipping labels automatically.
• Manage incoming shipments with advance notifications.
• Check inventory levels in real time.
• Get instant alerts about platform events.
• Streamline the returns process.

Like their shipping APIs, they use OAuth 2.0 for security. Getting started just requires registering your application in their Developer Portal to receive your credentials.

USPS APIs

The USPS shipping API connects you to America's original delivery service — a government-run operation with an unmatched ground delivery network. While they partner with FedEx for international air shipping, nobody beats their domestic coverage (they even handle final delivery for some FedEx and UPS packages).

USPS Shipping for Business offers its Web Tools API Portal to businesses of any size, letting developers integrate postal services directly into websites or USPS software apps. These connections bring the post office right into your systems. This post office is potent as it lets you:

• Calculate exact shipping costs instantly.
• Get real-time tracking information.
• Generate shipping labels automatically.
• Verify customer addresses before shipping.
• Schedule package pickups from your location.
• View delivery timelines and service commitments.

The setup uses HTTP communication with XML formatting. Their developer portal features implementation guides that walk you through every step of the integration process. Once you've got a business account set up, registration and usage of these tools won't cost you a cent.

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3PL companies and fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) APIs

When shipping gets too complex to handle yourself, third-party logistics providers (3PLs) step in with ready-made solutions that handle everything from warehousing to final delivery. These logistics partners offer powerful digital connections that let your systems communicate directly with their fulfillment networks, often including the multi-carrier shipping API options we've already covered.

3PL logistics API integration providers compared

Let's take a quick look at how the major 3PL players stack up when it comes to their API offerings. Each has its strengths and weaknesses and has something to add up to your business workflows, whether you're a small online store or managing complex international logistics.

• Kuehne + Nagel provides global logistics with APIs for air freight booking, container tracking, and document management. The JSON-set system connects you to one of the largest supply chain networks, a leader in the 2021 Gartner Magic Quadrant for 3PLs.
• DB Schenker offers European businesses access to a massive network through APIs covering pricing, booking, and tracking. They support both XML and text formats — just be prepared to display their logo on your site.
• Rakuten Super Logistics provides fast access to its network of fulfillment centers through APIs designed around enhancing customer experience, with strong order processing and returns management capabilities.
• C.H. Robinson gives you access to their Navisphere platform through REST APIs that handle everything from real-time quotes to freight tracking. Their system uses OAuth v2.0 security and includes webhook options that push shipment updates directly to your systems — perfect for businesses needing visibility across complex supply chains.
• ShipBob targets smaller eCommerces with straightforward APIs that handle everything from product creation to returns processing. Their developer-friendly approach supports both PAT and OAuth 2.0 authentication methods, making integration relatively painless.

The Amazon shipping API ecosystem deserves special attention as the retail giant has transformed into a logistics powerhouse. 

• Their Amazon Buy Shipping API (called Veeqo), lets sellers tap into Amazon's vast fulfillment network, connecting to over 100 million Prime subscribers while outsourcing storage and distribution operations completely.
• Amazon's Selling Partner API uses modern JSON-based REST standards with OAuth2.0 authorization. Their well-documented system handles inventory management, multichannel fulfillment orders, and inbound shipment creation without additional charges (beyond your seller account fees).
• Amazon has also recently launched their Warehousing and Distribution API (AWD API) to create inbound orders to ship inventory to Amazon distribution centers. It supports checking inventory eligibility, creating and updating inbound orders, tracking shipments, and managing inventory within Amazon's facilities through REST endpoints. The current version supports up to 150 unique SKUs per inbound order and includes helpful features for managing expiration dates and special handling requirements.

Whether you choose a traditional logistics partner or Amazon's integrated approach really depends on your business model and where your customers shop. To help you understand what caters more for your business, let’s see some best-fit use cases of these APIs.

What applications are the best for 3PL companies and FBA APIs?

When diving into the world of fulfillment and logistics APIs, it's crucial to understand which scenarios best fit your business needs. Here are the key use cases where these solutions truly shine:

• Taking the logistic load off your shoulders

For businesses looking to outsource their entire logistics operation, API in logistics provides seamless connections to 3PL providers like ShipBob, Red Stag, and C.H. Robinson. These integrations eliminate the need to negotiate with separate carriers or manage warehouse space.

• Warehouse and distribution management

Amazon Warehousing and Distribution API enables businesses to create inbound orders, track inventory in real-time, and monitor shipments to distribution centers. This is ideal for sellers managing large volumes of inventory who need visibility across their supply chain.

• Multi-channel fulfillment

FBA APIs allow sellers to use Amazon's vast fulfillment network not just for Amazon sales but also for orders from other channels. This creates a unified fulfillment strategy across multiple sales platforms.

• Launching dropshipping models

Drop shipping API connections let businesses sell products without holding inventory by automatically routing orders to suppliers or manufacturers who ship directly to customers. This minimizes inventory costs and risk while expanding product offerings.

Let's now move on to exploring the main features these logistics APIs offer and how they improve your operations.

Main features of FBA and 3PL APIs

Understanding the technical capabilities of these logistics APIs helps businesses make informed decisions about which solutions best fit their needs. Here are the standout features available:

• Real-time inventory tracking provides SKU-level quantity information for all inventory in distribution centers, including expiration dates and units in transit. This gives businesses complete visibility into their inventory status without manual checks.
• Shipment creation and management allow businesses to programmatically create shipping orders, generate labels, and manage transportation details from within their own systems.
• Shipping calculator API functionality enables businesses to fetch real-time shipping rates based on package dimensions, weight, origin, and destination. This allows for accurate shipping cost estimation during checkout, improving conversion rates and customer satisfaction.
• Document generation and management of essentials like Bills of Lading (BOLs), Proof of Delivery (PODs), and shipping labels speeds up your processes immensely.
• Webhook event notifications of advanced shipping integration solutions like C.H. Robinson's Events API push real-time status updates directly to your application, enabling automated workflow triggers based on shipment events.
• Fulfillment network optimization of FBA APIs allow businesses to distribute inventory across Amazon's network of fulfillment centers, optimizing for factors like regional demand and delivery speed requirements.

The combination of these use cases and features shows why delivery API integration has become fundamental to modern eCommerce operations. 

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Logistics API integration options for last mile delivery and shipping aggregators

When your products leave the warehouse, they enter the "last mile" of their journey to your customer's doorstep. This final leg often determines whether customers smile with satisfaction or frown with frustration. Thankfully, modern delivery API integration options make managing this vital process smoother than ever before.

Last mile delivery features both household names and specialized players worth knowing about. Each brings unique strengths to your logistics toolkit.

• Kosmo is a unified API for last-mile delivery, helping integrate multiple delivery providers with a single connection with easy integration and a user-friendly dashboard. It saves costs for companies of all sizes, from small cafes to large e-commerce platforms. 
• Postmates offers impressive API delivery options for businesses spanning restaurants to retailers. Their REST-based developer portal unlocks real-time delivery estimates, request creation, and order tracking in your existing systems, and Webhooks functionality delivers instant updates on every package moving through their network.
• ZAPIet’s Shopify shipping API for last mile delivery enables ntegration with Shopify stores. It offers serverless integration, tracking updates, status synchronization, and customizable settings. With zero commission, free self-service setup, and support for scheduled and on-demand deliveries, it helps boost last-mile logistics.

All these options are versatile and useful. However, why juggle multiple shipping integrations when delivery API integration aggregators exist? These platforms connect you to dozens — sometimes hundreds — of carriers through a single technical hookup.

• Shippo partners with 85+ carriers, focusing primarily on eCommerce needs. Their REST APIs empower multi-carrier rate requests, specialized label generation (including alcohol shipments), pickup scheduling, and return management. With client libraries spanning cURL to C#, integration proceeds smoothly regardless of your tech stack. 
• EasyPost connects to over 100 carriers worldwide. Their shipping APIs handle everything from rate comparisons to label creation and package insurance. They provide client libraries across major programming languages and maintain stringent security standards with TLS v1.2 requirements. Their tiered pricing accommodates everyone from startups (with 120,000 free annual shipments) to enterprise-level operations.
• Easyship connects you to an impressive 250+ courier service providers. Their API ship platform includes intelligent rate comparisons that highlight the cheapest, fastest, and best-value shipping options for each package. Their reasonable rate limits of 60 requests per minute and 10 per second when planning your integration.
• ShippyPro boasts impressive connections to 150+ carriers and approximately 70 sales channels. If your business already uses compatible software, you'll quickly sync shipping platforms with preferred carriers. Their APIs support both REST JSON and SOAP formats across 14 programming languages. Beyond basic functions, they offer specialized label creation tools, shipment tracking, and returns management.

The right partner lets you offer faster, more transparent, and more reliable delivery — turning the final mile into your competitive edge rather than your logistical nightmare.

When do you need shipping APIs?

Understanding where shipping integrations add the most value helps you prioritize your logistics investments. These API in logistics solutions excel in specific scenarios that might mirror your business challenges.

• Multi-carrier management

Businesses with numerous delivery providers find immediate relief through aggregator platforms. A growing company shipping internationally might use these connections to expand into new markets without building additional infrastructure for each region's preferred carriers.

• Specialized local delivery

Businesses with concentrated geographic footprints often benefit from specialized last-mile solutions. A boutique homegoods retailer might leverage this to compete with major retailers by promoting "delivered today" for orders placed before noon.

• Unified experience across channels

Multi-channel sellers face unique logistics challenges. A unified API approach helps businesses maintain consistent delivery experiences whether customers purchase through your website, marketplace listings, or physical locations and simplify your operational backend.

• International shipping compliance

Cross-border shipping introduces complex documentation and customs requirements. International shipping APIs handle duties, taxes, and required paperwork, reducing rejection rates and customs delays for specialty retailers shipping regulated goods.

What features should you look for in such solutions? Let’s discover the major functionality they have.

Essential capabilities that drive results

Last-mile delivery and shipping aggregators APIs offer specialized features. These API transport capabilities separate true logistics partners from basic shipping connections.

• Rate shopping and optimization

Cost control remains crucial for maintaining profitable operations. Easyship's comparative rate display identifies the cheapest, fastest, and best-value shipping options for each package. This automatic optimization helps merchants balance delivery speed against shipping costs — particularly valuable for products with thin margins.

• Return management automation

The reverse logistics process impacts both customer satisfaction and operational costs. ShippyPro's Easy Return feature automates this process, generating return labels and tracking inbound shipments, providing visibility into inventory returning to your warehouse.

• Address validation and correction

Delivery failures often stem from simple address errors. ShipEngine's address validation API catches and corrects these issues before packages enter the shipping stream. This feature delivers ROI by preventing costly redelivery attempts and customer service escalations.

The right approach connects inventory management, order processing, and customer communication into a seamless logistics ecosystem.

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Rail freight companies and trucking carriers APIs

When your supply chain stretches across continents, you need robust connections with both rail and trucking carriers. Modern API freight options make these traditionally fragmented sectors more accessible. Let's explore the digital doorways to these transportation modes.

Rail freight transport moves massive volumes efficiently across vast distances, offering cost advantages for non-urgent, heavy shipments while reducing environmental impact. Several forward-thinking rail companies now offer API access to their networks.

• DB Cargo operates Europe's largest railway network, including an impressive 13,000 km route stretching from Spain to China. Their API suite enables shipment tracking and empty freight wagon ordering. This German-based international transportation giant bridges the continental gap for businesses needing European rail connectivity.
• Trimble’s Freight Rail's API provides access to PC*Miler Rail's extensive routing database covering nearly 200,000 miles of North American rail lines with 49,000 active freight stations, 800 carriers, and 4,000 junction interchanges. Their RESTful interface calculates optimal rail routes and distances, and versioned API structure supports numerous releases, with authentication requiring a valid API key from Trimble Maps.
• BNSF Railway commands North America's largest rail network, spanning roughly 400 railroad lines. Their RESTful APIs unlock crucial capabilities including shipment tracking, quote requests, schedule information, and waybill retrieval. Their webhook delivers real-time status updates. One limitation worth noting: you still can't book services directly through their APIs.

When freight leaves terminals or requires domestic movement, trucking carriers become essential partners. With trucks handling over 70% of U.S. freight, these digital connections prove particularly valuable for seamless logistics operations.

• Axon Tracking Software delivers a fully integrated system for cargo transportation through API trucking capabilities. This solution transmits all essential information in real-time. According to its developers, Axon triples fleet efficiency through complete fleet management, accounting functionalities, and detailed reporting capabilities. 
• J.B. Hunt Transport Services stands among America's transportation giants with their fleet of 12,000 trucks and 100,000+ trailers and containers. The JBHT API Portal serves both shippers and carriers with robust connectivity options. Their shipper-focused features include tracking, full truckload quote requests, document exchange, scheduling, and complete order management. They implement dual security protocols — OAuth 2.0 and RHSSO — with access requiring Shipper 360 platform registration.
• Samsara trucking API enhances transportation efficiency. Their real-time data exchange provides constant visibility into vehicle locations and routes, and the intuitive interface displays comprehensive route information including scheduled deliveries, completion status, and timing details across both desktop and mobile platforms. It synchronizes with equipment to monitor engine conditions, container temperatures, and other critical parameters — great for sensitive or regulated cargo.

Both rail and trucking sectors continue evolving their digital capabilities, though at different paces. While these connections may not yet offer the comprehensive functionality found in parcel shipping, they represent significant progress toward a more connected transportation ecosystem.

When trucking and rail APIs bring the greatest value

Different logistics scenarios demand specialized solutions. These rail and trucking delivery API integration approaches excel in specific business contexts where traditional shipping APIs might fall short. Let's explore where these platforms truly shine.

• Specialized equipment monitoring

Temperature-sensitive, hazardous, or high-value goods require more than basic location tracking. For instance, Samsara's shipping tracking API connects with sensors that track engine condition, container temperature, and other vital metrics. Pharmaceutical companies transporting temperature-sensitive medications receive immediate alerts if refrigeration systems deviate from required parameters, preventing costly product losses.

• High-volume route optimization

Organizations with dense regional delivery networks benefit from sophisticated routing intelligence. For instance, beverage distributors making dozens of daily deliveries across metropolitan areas significantly reduce fuel consumption and increase stops-per-hour through dynamic route adjustments.

• Long-haul cost management

Businesses shipping bulk commodities over extreme distances find particular value in rail freight APIs like PC*Miler Rail's extensive routing database that optimizes these long journeys. Their API calculates precise distances and routing options, essential for accurate fuel surcharge computations. Mining companies transporting raw materials from remote locations to processing facilities also save significant costs by identifying optimal rail routings.

Most of these delivery API integration options also offer comparative analysis between carriers and routes. It gives you powerful negotiation leverage through data-driven performance assessments. What other features will you benefit from?

Features driving your trucking and railing logistics forward

Rail and trucking APIs offer specialized features. Let’s explore them in more detail.

• Intermodal terminal reservations

Coordinating container movements between transportation modes requires precise scheduling. Programmatic creation of intermodal terminal reservations eliminates manual errors while ensuring container availability at precise times. Import/export businesses synchronize their inland transportation with vessel schedules, minimizing detention and demurrage charges.

• Automated document exchange

Transportation compliance demands comprehensive documentation. Logistics API integration automates document retrieval throughout the shipping lifecycle, and captures, indexes, and archives proof of delivery, bills of lading, weight certificates, and other documentation. 

• Equipment utilization optimization

Maximizing utilization is a critical cost-control strategy. Tracking and scheduling APIs monitor equipment utilization across networks, and webhook notifications alert when assets remain idle beyond threshold timeframes. Manufacturing operations requiring specialized equipment improve utilization rates by identifying and redeploying underused assets.

While parcel shipping APIs focus primarily on consumer-facing deliveries, these rail and trucking integrations address the industrial backbone of global supply chains. Businesses embracing these advanced transportation integrations gain competitive advantages and cost efficiency.

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Freight forwarders and freight marketplaces

Moving goods across borders can get complicated fast. Two key players help businesses tackle these shipping challenges: freight forwarders and digital freight marketplaces. Freight forwarders don't actually move your stuff — they arrange it all for you. Unlike 3PLs, who handle everything, forwarders focus on connecting you with carriers and sorting out all the paperwork.

• If you're in manufacturing or retail with global shipping needs, Danish logistics giant DSV has got you covered. Their toolkit includes myDSV, EDI, and APIs through the Developer Portal. Their API package gives you everything: Quote APIs for checking rates, Booking APIs for submitting shipments, Tracking APIs to follow your cargo, and Labels APIs for documentation — all in REST JSON format for smooth logistics API integration.
• California-based Flexport is the new kid on the block. Their tech-focused approach includes APIs that include cool features like CO2 emissions tracking and port information. Their RESTful APIs speak JSON and handle everything from finances to documentation — perfect if you want a modern, tech-driven forwarding solution.

Want to connect directly with carriers or hunt for better rates? Freight marketplaces are your answer. These platforms let shippers compare options and carriers showcase their services — totally changing how shipping partnerships happen.

• UROUTE's marketplace focuses specifically on securing truck capacity. Their Capacity API Engine broadcasts your shipment needs to over 1,200 verified carriers. They offer real-time tracking through ELD connectivity, electronic paperwork, and comprehensive document management. Their pay-as-you-go approach has saved customers over $750M across 136,500+ monthly shipments.
• Part of DP World, SeaRates gives you a search engine for freight quotes plus planning tools. Their API collection covers everything from rate comparison to container tracking, ship schedules, and route planning. Using GraphQL requests and JSON responses, they connect you with hundreds of forwarders. Their Load Calculator and route planning tools help optimize both how you pack and ship your cargo.
• Texas-based uShip specializes in moving big, awkward stuff — cars, boats, furniture, even livestock. They use a bidding system where carriers compete for your business. uShip PRO platform offers comprehensive freight management, while their Developer Portal gives you API access for custom integration with your existing systems.

From smart load-planning tools to tracking and documentation solutions, these digital connections make shipping simpler and more efficient for businesses of all sizes.

When freight forwarder and marketplace APIs prove especially valuable

When integrating with logistics platforms, choosing the right API partner depends on your specific business needs. Let's look at where each of these freight solutions truly shines.

• Supply chain visibility

Flexport's API ecosystem delivers exceptional value for businesses prioritizing end-to-end visibility. Their technology emphasis makes them particularly suited for eCommerce operations requiring real-time data integration, enabling advanced tracking and emissions reporting that modern consumers increasingly demand.

• Rate shopping for international freight

Freightos marketplace APIs offer unparalleled advantages when cost optimization is critical. Their platform specializes in aggregating and comparing international shipping rates, making them the go-to solution for businesses seeking integration with multi-channel sales systems like Amazon shipping API to automatically find the best carrier rates for each shipment.

• Specialty and oversized cargo transportation

uShip's bidding-based API platform provides unique advantages for businesses dealing with non-standard shipments. Their competitive marketplace approach works exceptionally well for retailers and specialty goods providers needing reliable transport for items that don't fit conventional shipping parameters.

These systems are optimized for businesses managing time-sensitive shipments requiring guaranteed capacity despite market fluctuations. Let’s talk about some other features that complete these APIs’ efficiency.

Common functionality of freight forwarder and marketplace APIs

Beyond general capabilities, each logistics API provider offers standout features that set them apart. Here's what makes each option distinctive in the crowded logistics technology landscape.

• Integrated documentation generation

DSV's Label APIs provide exceptional document generation capabilities that streamline international shipping compliance. Their system automatically produces properly formatted shipping labels and customs documentation, significantly reducing paperwork errors that commonly delay shipments and creating a seamless API delivery experience across multiple shipping channels.

• Carbon footprint calculation

Flexport's environmental reporting features represent a forward-thinking approach to sustainable logistics. Their APIs not only track shipments but calculate precise carbon emissions for each transportation leg, providing valuable data for businesses.

• Container load optimization

SeaRates' Load Calculator APIs deliver sophisticated cargo arrangement algorithms. Their tools programmatically determine the most efficient ways to pack containers, reducing wasted space and unnecessary shipping costs through precise mathematical modeling that optimizes how products are physically arranged within shipping containers.

• Competitive bidding system

uShip's auction-based API framework enables unique pricing dynamics for specialty cargo. Their system allows carriers to compete for your business, often resulting in better rates for challenging shipments that would otherwise be difficult to price through traditional rate cards or standard shipping calculators.

As you evaluate which solution best fits your logistics requirements, consider not just the current features but also each provider's roadmap for future development in this rAPIdly changing sector.

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Ocean container carriers and air freight carriers APIs

Shipping goods across vast oceans or flying them through the skies requires specialized carriers with robust logistics networks.

Container ships carry about 90% of global trade, yet many major shipping lines are only now wading into digital waters. Traditional EDI systems are gradually giving way to more flexible IT solution for logistics space.

• French maritime provider’s CMA CGM APIs, manages 500+ vessels serving 420 ports worldwide. Their API catalog includes practical tools for route information, pricing quotes, and shipment tracking. While their full booking API is still under development, their roadmap shows commitment to expanding digital capabilities beyond basic operational functions.
• Sinay offers specialized APIs focused on efficiency and sustainability metrics. Their developer-friendly platform provides quick implementation (under five minutes setup time) with worldwide coverage. Their suite includes tracking, port congestion monitoring, ETA prediction, and CO2 emissions calculations.
• For businesses frustrated by the fragmented container tracking landscape, ShipsGo offers a straightforward solution. Their Container Tracking API consolidates data from over 160 carriers into a single integration point. With unlimited API calls at no extra cost, they provide comprehensive shipment visibility including vessel details, port information, transit times, and environmental metrics.

While airfreight moves just 1% of global trade volume, it represents 35% of global trade value due to its focus on high-value, time-sensitive cargo. Digital transformation among air carriers shows similar growing pains to their ocean counterparts.

• Delta Cargo APIs offers a practical set of RESTful APIs that cover the essential cargo management functions. Their developer tools include Shopping APIs for rate discovery, Booking APIs for shipment management, and Tracking APIs with GPS capabilities for real-time monitoring. Notably, Delta Cargo offers free registration and usage of their API suite, accessible to businesses of all sizes seeking air cargo APIs solutions.
• For businesses seeking a unified approach to air shipment visibility, AirRates offers a comprehensive tracking API that connects with approximately 500 airlines and carriers. Their solution delivers real-time status updates, route details, and interactive mapping capabilities that can be embedded directly into existing CRM/TMS/ERP systems. 
• Air France KLM Martinair Cargo serves an impressive 457 destinations across 157 countries. Their digital offering splits into two categories: comprehensive myCargo APIs for complete shipment management and lighter-weight Cargo Tracking APIs for status monitoring. While powerful, these tools require formal registration and agreement processes before implementation.

The next step in your logistics digitization journey involves understanding how these transportation APIs can connect with your existing business systems, and what use cases are optimal for these solutions implementation.

Air and ocean logistics API best use cases 

Air and ocean ship API providers offer specialized solutions for different supply chain needs. Here are the key use cases:

• Consolidated container tracking

 ShipsGo's solution eliminates the need to maintain connections with multiple carriers by providing a single integration point that covers 160+ ocean carriers, making it ideal for freight forwarders and logistics platforms managing shipments across multiple shipping lines.

• Eco-conscious transportation management

Sinay's and ShipsGo’s APIs enable sustainability-focused companies to monitor and measure environmental impacts with CO2 emissions calculations across all commercial vessel types, helping companies meet regulatory requirements and sustainability goals.

• High-value air cargo monitoring

Delta Cargo's GPS-enabled tracking APIs provide real-time visibility for time-sensitive, high-value shipments moved via air, perfect for pharmaceutical and electronics companies.

• Rate discovery and optimization

CMA CGM and Delta Cargo APIs enable systematic rate comparison and booking automation, helping transportation procurement teams optimize costs while working with freight API providers that manage fleets of 500+ vessels or serve hundreds of global destinations.

Moving beyond use cases, let's examine the key technical features these APIs offer for modern supply chains.

Main features of air and marine cargo logistics APIs

Ocean and air API in logistics solutions deliver specialized capabilities designed for global transportation challenges. Here are their standout features:

• Unified data standardization. Transforming fragmented container tracking data into standardized JSON responses, enabling seamless integration with existing TMS, ERP, and CRM systems without having to handle multiple data formats.
• OAuth2 authentication framework. It’s vital to have industry-standard security protocols for air cargo APIs, ensuring secure data transmission while maintaining compliance with international data protection requirements.
• Embedded tracking visualization. Interactive mapping capabilities that can be white-labeled and embedded directly into existing business applications provides end-customers with branded visibility experiences without additional development effort.

The digital transformation of ocean and air freight continues to accelerate, with these API providers creating new possibilities for streamlined, data-driven supply chains.

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Shipping API integration tips

Selecting the right API provider for your logistics operations requires careful evaluation of your specific requirements and the technical capabilities offered. Here's how to approach this critical decision:

• First, conduct a thorough audit of your current tracking gaps and business priorities. Determine whether you need comprehensive container visibility across multiple carriers, specialized metrics, or real-time cargo monitoring with GPS capabilities.
• Look for providers whose shipment tracking API delivers consistent data structures across multiple carriers. Check is the API solution normalizes tracking information from carriers into uniform responses to cut development effort and avoid mistakes.
• Authentication mechanisms vary between providers, from simple API keys to OAuth2 implementations. Note that some providers require custom security token authorization that impact implementation timelines. Remember to request this information.
• Provider onboarding experiences range from self-service developer portals to hands-on implementation assistance. Check for collaborative troubleshooting or simpler setup experiences to minimize the technical barriers to delivery API integration.

• Review each provider's rate limits, pricing tiers, and scaling options. Some providers offer unlimited API calls at flat rates, while others implement tiered pricing based on call volume or feature access, potentially creating unexpected costs.
• Request sandbox access to evaluate response times and data accuracy across different geographical regions where your shipments operate. For instance, Air France KLM's solution may deliver excellent performance in European corridors but might show different response characteristics for Asian routes compared to specialized regional providers. Consider multiple factors and variables that matter to your business.

When implemented thoughtfully, these solutions turn disconnected shipping data into supply chain analytics that drives better customer experiences and operational efficiency. However, finding the right software integration for your business can be challenging, and implementing it correctly can be an expensive game of trial and error. Software integration services help businesses across industries overcome technical hurdles with tailored approaches.

Nail shipping API integration with COAX 

COAX provides custom solutions that connect your systems seamlessly, allowing you to focus on strategy and not wasting precious time on operational parts. Whether you need shipping API integration services to streamline your logistics or complete eCommerce software development for a fully proprietary system that connects major providers, our team delivers results that drive efficiency.

Our expertise is experience-based — Take SmartBat, for example. This construction industry client faced challenges with inventory management and slow supplier deliveries. COAX built a comprehensive e-commerce platform with same-day delivery API integration, transforming their business model and giving customers powerful management tools for their purchases.

We understand each business has unique needs. That's why we create custom software that connects your existing systems while adding new functionalities that help you stay competitive — and actually go way, way ahead of the competition.

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FAQ

What is shipping API?

A shipping API is a tool that connects your business systems directly with shipping carriers, allowing you to automate shipping tasks like calculating rates, generating labels, tracking packages, and managing orders without manual intervention.

Do I need technical expertise to implement shipping APIs?

Most shipping API providers offer documentation and support, but implementation typically requires some programming knowledge or IT support. Many providers also offer pre-built plugins for popular eCommerce platforms as alternatives.

How long does API integration usually take?

Integration timelines vary based on complexity, but typically range from a few days for basic implementations to several weeks for complex, multi-carrier systems with custom workflows.

Are there security concerns with shipping APIs?

Like any API integration, proper security measures must be implemented. Look for providers offering OAuth 2.0 authentication, secure data transmission (HTTPS), and compliance with data protection regulations.

Can shipping APIs work with my existing inventory management system?

Most modern shipping APIs are designed to integrate with popular inventory and order management systems. Check compatibility with your specific systems before selecting a provider.