Comprehensive Guide to Shipment Tracking Software and Automation
Shipment Tracking Software and ShipHawk Shipping Automation solutions allow you to own the customer post-purchase experience by taking control of order status and tracking communication. Using the most powerful shipping platform available will give you cart-to-customer control, end-to-end logistics automation, and the shipping intelligence needed to turn shipping into your secret weapon. ShipHawk automatically retrieves shipment updates, normalizes them across your carrier network and makes them accessible in formats both you and your customers understand.
Shipment Tracking API vs Webhook
The main difference between a shipment tracking API and a webhook lies in how they communicate with other applications. An API is used by a server to interact with another application, whereas a webhook is an automated call triggered by an event in another application. While both options allow parcel tracking worldwide, webhooks deliver data immediately as it happens, eliminating the need for frequent data polling. APIs require repeated calls to fetch data in real time.
The API Workflow
A Shipment Tracking API (Application Programming Interface) is a powerful tool that bridges your ecommerce platform with shipping carriers’ tracking systems. In the API workflow, your system sends a request to the carriers or tech provider to obtain shipment tracking data. The request is made to retrieve information about a specific shipment. The carriers or tech provider then responds to your system with the requested shipment tracking data, and your system processes the information to determine if the tracking data has been updated.
The Webhook Workflow
A webhook, also known as a web call-back, allows apps to share real-time information with other applications. In the Webhook workflow, your system establishes a connection with the carriers or tech provider to receive updates for shipment tracking. When a tracking update occurs, the carriers or tech provider automatically sends the updated shipment tracking data to your system. This communication happens in real-time without the need for your system to repeatedly request data, ensuring that your system remains up-to-date with the latest information.
Why Shipment Tracking Matters
- Retrieve Shipment Information with Ease: The Shipment Tracking Webhook makes it effortless for businesses to obtain comprehensive shipment tracking information and stay informed throughout the delivery process.
- Extract Accurate Tracking Data in Real-Time: Extract and display accurate tracking information, providing businesses with up-to-the-minute reports on shipment statuses.
- Streamline Operations: Efficiently monitor carrier delivery performance and display tracking details within systems or eCommerce platforms.
The Shipments Tracking User Interface
The Shipments Tracking UI is designed to give users real-time visibility into their shipments. This interface allows users to track shipments based on specific queries and provides detailed shipment data, including tracking numbers, shipment dates, and carrier details. Key query features include:
- PO_SEARCH: Search by Purchase Order number.
- SO_SEARCH: Search by Sales Order number.
- SHIP_DATE_SEARCH: Retrieve shipments based on the specified shipment date.
Integration Process for Shipment Tracking
Integrating a Shipment Tracking API into your ecommerce platform typically involves the following steps:
- Obtain API access: This may involve creating an account with the API provider.
- Review API documentation: Go through the documentation and identify the steps and requirements for making API requests.
- Programming: Create the code to integrate into the API.
- Testing: Run tests to ensure that the API is working correctly.
- Deployment: Go live with the API integration and monitor its performance.
Utilize the Package Array section to find detailed shipment data, including the Tracking Number for real-time shipment status updates. This level of transparency instills trust and cultivates brand loyalty by winning the post-purchase journey.
