Customer Support - Integrated Carriers

Web API (Application Programming Interface) technology is a set of protocols and tools for building and integrating software applications over the internet. It allows different software systems to communicate with each other and exchange data seamlessly. Web APIs enable businesses to expose their services and functionalities to external developers, partners, and clients, facilitating integration between various applications and platforms.

In the logistics industry, Web APIs play a crucial role in enabling real-time communication and data exchange between shippers, carriers, and other stakeholders involved in the transportation process. Unlike legacy technology such as Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), which relies on standardized formats for transmitting structured data between computer systems, Web APIs offer more flexibility and versatility.

Here's how Web API technology differs from EDI, especially in the context of the logistics industry:

• Flexibility and Scalability:

  • Web APIs allow for more flexible data formats, including JSON and XML, making it easier to adapt to changing business requirements and integrate with modern web-based applications.

  • EDI, on the other hand, typically relies on fixed, predefined message formats, which can be less adaptable to evolving business needs and require more effort to customize.

• Real-time Communication:

  • Web APIs facilitate real-time communication and data exchange between systems, enabling faster decision-making and response times.

  • EDI transactions often occur in batches and may have longer processing times, leading to delays in information sharing and decision-making.

• Accessibility and Ease of Integration:

  • Web APIs are accessible over standard internet protocols (HTTP/HTTPS) and can be easily integrated into web and mobile applications using widely adopted programming languages and frameworks.

  • EDI integration may require specialized software and expertise, making it more complex and costly to implement and maintain.

• Interoperability:

  • Web APIs support interoperability across diverse platforms and technologies, allowing different systems to communicate and exchange data seamlessly.

  • While EDI standards promote interoperability between trading partners, variations in implementation and interpretation can still pose challenges for seamless integration.

Advantages of using a 3PL like Integrated Carriers with a TMS website like SoluShip that connects with providers via API include:

• Streamlined Operations:

  • Integration with third-party logistics providers (3PLs) via Web APIs allows B2B shippers to streamline their transportation operations by automating processes such as rate quotes, booking, tracking, and reporting.

• Real-time Visibility:

  • Web API integration provides B2B shippers with real-time visibility into their shipments, enabling them to track the status and location of their goods throughout the transportation process.

• Enhanced Efficiency:

  • By leveraging Web APIs to connect with 3PLs, B2B shippers can improve efficiency and accuracy in data exchange, reducing manual errors and operational inefficiencies.

• Scalability and Adaptability:

  • Web API-based integration offers scalability and adaptability, allowing B2B shippers to easily scale their transportation operations and adapt to changing business needs without significant overhead. Because it’s very low cost to us at Integrated Carriers, we can offer it at no additional cost to your business when you use our carriers and discounted rates.