Summary

This chapter introduced the Federal Express API and the various calls likely to be required during the operation of an online store. Though I personally experienced many problems initially with this API (due mainly to my location in Canada), overall I would say that this API was a pleasure to work with. The documentation is very good, and perhaps most impressively, the API support team answers email promptly and is accessible by phone most of the day. Having completed this chapter, you are now prepared to integrate shipping into an online store, supporting the following:

• Estimating shipping costs for different shipping methods

• Shipping a package

• Canceling a shipment

• Tracking that package while en route

• Accepting returns

This information is useful on its own, but also combines well with the next two APIs presented: eBay and PayPal. By integrating code from these three chapters, you could create a very robust online presence with a minimum of direct interaction on your part.