API Integration Checklist for E-commerce Platforms

API integration is essential for improving your e-commerce platform. It streamlines processes, improves customer experience, and increases efficiency.

What is API Integration?

It connects systems like inventory management, payment processing, and logistics so they work seamlessly together. For example, Bedshop reduced cancelled orders by 89% through better inventory management via APIs.

Why Is It Important?

• Lower costs: Up to 37% savings on inventory costs
• Faster shipping: 43% more same-day deliveries
• Higher conversion: 19% more successful checkouts

Key Considerations

Security

• Use OAuth 2.0 and TLS 1.3
• Conduct regular penetration tests
• Implement input validation and authorization protocols

Scalability

Choose horizontal scalability, adding extra servers instead of upgrading existing hardware. This makes your system better prepared for growth.

Costs

Account for monthly maintenance costs (€440-€1,320) and one-time investments.

Popular E-commerce APIs

Category	Providers	Main Function
Payments	iDEAL, PayPal, Stripe	Transaction processing, refunds
Shipping	PostNL, DHL, SendCloud	Track & trace, label creation
Inventory	TradeGecko, Shopify	Real-time inventory management
Marketing	Mailchimp, HubSpot	Customer communication, automation

Implementation Steps

1. Set Up Authentication

Authentication Type	Use Case	Advantages
API Keys	Public APIs	Simple to use
OAuth 2.0	User-specific actions	Secure access for individual users
JWT	Session-based auth	Convenient for stateless authentication

2. Configure Data Format

• Standardization: Ensure uniform format for dates, amounts, and product numbers
• Validation: Check required fields, data types, and value limits
• Error handling: Use clear error messages and log deviations for analysis

3. Set Up Test Environment

Create a test environment that closely mimics production. This allows you to verify all integration components work correctly together.

Testing and Maintenance

• Test in a safe environment before going live
• Monitor performance continuously (99.9% response time)
• Secure your data and apply updates promptly

With this checklist, you can achieve successful API integration and take your e-commerce platform to the next level.

Want help with your API integration? Contact Duxly to discuss your requirements.