How to build a public ShipStation integration: Building the Auth Flow

Aug 12, 2024 • 6 minute read

Hey there, fellow JavaScript aficionado! Ready to dive into the world of ShipStation integrations? Let's cut to the chase and build an auth flow that'll make your integration shine. We'll keep things snappy, so buckle up!

Introduction

ShipStation's API is a powerhouse for shipping automation, but before we can tap into that sweet, sweet functionality, we need to nail the authorization process. It's like the bouncer at an exclusive club – get past it, and you're in for a great time.

Prerequisites

Before we jump in, make sure you've got:

A ShipStation Partner Account (if you don't have one, go grab it!)
A registered application with ShipStation (they need to know who you are)
A Node.js environment ready to rock

Got all that? Awesome! Let's get this party started.

Understanding ShipStation's OAuth 2.0 Flow

ShipStation uses OAuth 2.0, the cool kid of authorization protocols. Here's the gist:

You redirect users to ShipStation's auth page
They approve your app
ShipStation sends you a code
You exchange that code for an access token

Simple, right? Let's break it down further.

Implementing the Authorization Flow

Step 1: Redirect to ShipStation's Authorization Page

First up, we need to send users to ShipStation's authorization page. It's like giving them a VIP pass to the club.

const authUrl = `https://ss-usa.shippingapis.com/oauth/authorize?client_id=${YOUR_CLIENT_ID}&response_type=code&scope=manage_orders&redirect_uri=${YOUR_REDIRECT_URI}`;

// Redirect the user to authUrl

Step 2: Handle the Callback

Once the user approves your app, ShipStation will redirect them back to your redirect_uri with a special code. Time to roll out the red carpet!

app.get('/callback', (req, res) => {
  const { code } = req.query;
  // Now we've got the code, let's use it!
});

Step 3: Exchange the Code for an Access Token

Now for the grand finale – turning that code into an access token. It's like exchanging your ticket stub for backstage passes.

const axios = require('axios');

async function getAccessToken(code) {
  const response = await axios.post('https://ss-usa.shippingapis.com/oauth/token', {
    grant_type: 'authorization_code',
    client_id: YOUR_CLIENT_ID,
    client_secret: YOUR_CLIENT_SECRET,
    code,
    redirect_uri: YOUR_REDIRECT_URI,
  });

  return response.data.access_token;
}

Managing Tokens

Got your access token? Great! Now treat it like your most prized possession. Store it securely, refresh it when needed, and always be ready for it to expire.

// Store the token securely (please use a proper secure storage solution!)
const secureStorage = require('your-secure-storage-solution');
secureStorage.store('shipstation_token', accessToken);

// Don't forget to refresh when needed!

Best Practices

Always use HTTPS. It's not the 90s anymore!
Implement PKCE for extra security. It's like adding a moat to your castle.
Handle errors gracefully. Nobody likes a crashy app.

Testing the Authorization Flow

Set up a test environment and pretend to be a user. It's like playing dress-up, but for developers!

// Mock user authorization
mockAuthorize();

// Test your callback handling
testCallback();

// Ensure token exchange works
testTokenExchange();

Conclusion

And there you have it! You've just built a rock-solid auth flow for your ShipStation integration. Pat yourself on the back – you've earned it!

Remember, this is just the beginning. With this auth flow in place, you're now ready to explore all the amazing features ShipStation's API has to offer. The shipping world is your oyster!

Additional Resources

Now go forth and build something awesome! Your integration is going to knock some socks off. 🧦🚀