API
An API (Application Programming Interface) is a defined interface through which one software system can request data or services from another, automatically and in real time. It specifies the operations available, the data formats, and the rules for making requests and receiving responses — letting applications talk to each other without human intervention.
In logistics and supply chain, APIs are the modern way systems integrate and share live data: a freight or ERP platform can use APIs to fetch real-time sailing schedules, container tracking, rates, customs statuses and shipment milestones from carriers, ports and partners, and to push bookings and instructions to them. Compared with traditional EDI (batch message exchange), APIs typically offer real-time, on-demand, two-way interaction, and are increasingly used alongside or instead of EDI for connectivity. Most modern APIs are web APIs, commonly following the REST style and exchanging JSON data over HTTPS, often secured with tokens (OAuth). APIs are central to system integration, automation and real-time visibility across the supply chain, and are a key capability for connecting logistics software with the wider ecosystem of carriers, customers and authorities.
APIs are how modern logistics systems connect — pulling live schedules, tracking and rates from carriers and pushing bookings back, all in real time and without manual re-keying. They increasingly complement or replace batch EDI, and are the backbone of real-time visibility and automation. For any logistics platform, API connectivity is a core capability for integrating with the wider trade ecosystem.
How does an API differ from EDI?
EDI exchanges structured messages, often in batches; an API typically offers real-time, on-demand, two-way interaction between systems.
What are APIs used for in logistics?
Fetching live schedules, tracking, rates and customs statuses, and pushing bookings and instructions between platforms, carriers, ports and partners.