Author:
Roman Slisarenko
, Software Engineer at
Techstack Ltd
Today’s customers demand multiple delivery options, fast shipping, and real-time updates. But how can your business stay ahead of competitors with the logistics and shipping software you don’t have? Easy — use shipping and logistics API to integrate the advanced logistics tools you lack and connect to shipping networks.
The right transportation and shipping system can elevate your operations, but a random API might not fit your needs. To make selection easier, we grouped the key aspects you should consider.
- Essential features. Identify the core functionalities that add value to your business. You can create a checklist of required features and use it as a reference to compare APIs from different vendors.
- Transportation fees. Many factors impact the costs of APIs. In addition to direct factors (travel distance, shipment dimensions and weight, transportation mode, etc.), you will face indirect ones, like heightened demand or capacity shortage.
- Integration expenses. Estimate the initial setup costs and recurring fees of using APIs. Some providers charge a one-time or a monthly fee, while others bill per number of transactions. You should also look for hidden costs for enhanced customer services, premium features, or exceeded usage limits.
- Data security and privacy. Ensure the API uses robust authentication mechanisms, granular access controls, and encrypted data transmission. You should verify that the provider’s data handling policies comply with data protection regulations in your industry, such as GDPR, CCPA, or PCI DSS.
- Guaranteed reliability. Check whether the API offers a reliable uptime (usually, it should be around 99.8%) or can handle your transaction volumes at peak periods. Review the provider’s Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for the expected performance levels and recourse methods in case they are not met.
- Scalability limits. Analyze whether the API can support your business demands and projected growth. Also, consider the potential consequences of switching to a different provider to assess the risks of vendor lock-in.
- API documentation and support. Prioritize APIs with comprehensive guides and troubleshooting tips. Check if the provider offers multiple support channels, such as email, live chat, and dedicated managers.
Read the reviews from other businesses that used the APIs you’re considering. In any case, we highly recommend signing up for a trial period to test your preferred tool.
