Thursday, August 13, 2009

United States Postal Service web tool kit

The USPS Web Tool Kit Application Program Interfaces (APIs) allow developers of web-based and shrink-wrapped applications access to the on-line services of the United States Postal Service (USPS). They provide easy access to shipping information and services for your customers. By integrating these APIs into your web site, your customers can utilize the functions provided by the USPS without ever leaving your web site. Once the APIs are integrated into your web site, the USPS Shipping API Server communicates over HTTP using XML (Extensible Markup Language).


Implementing these APIs requires experienced programmers who are familiar with Internet and web site development tools and techniques.


This document provides guidance and step-by-step instructions for installing the USPS APIs, as well as fulfilling various administrative requirements. The administrative requirements vary between different APIs (e.g., submitting samples of labels for some APIs, signing a licensing agreement for certain software, etc.), and this document provides guidance to navigate through the process for the API you are implementing. It is imperative that developers read this manual first, as it provides necessary information and procedures prior to use.


There is a Web Tool Kit User’s Guide for each API available at http://www.usps.com/webtools/. These user guides provide information of the XML transactions to the USPS Shipping API server.

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