What the API does
The Shipping API returns rates for a parcel, buys the chosen service, returns a label document and provides tracking events. Depending on the marketplace, the offers include Amazon Shipping itself and partner carriers.
It is part of the Selling Partner API family, so it uses the same Login with Amazon authorisation and rate-limit model.
A typical label flow
- An order arrives from SP-API or your order management system.
- The warehouse system sends package weight, dimensions and ship-from address to request rates.
- Your rules pick a service: cheapest that meets the promised delivery date, or a preferred carrier.
- The label is bought and printed at the packing station; tracking is confirmed back to the order.
Seller-fulfilled Prime and delivery promises
Sellers who ship their own Prime orders must meet strict on-time and tracking requirements. Buying labels through Amazon’s shipping services means tracking is uploaded automatically and some late-delivery issues caused by the carrier are not counted against you. Check the current rules for your marketplace; they differ between countries.
Integration details that matter
- Validate addresses before requesting rates; failed purchases are the most common error.
- Store the label and shipment ID, so you can void a label that was printed by mistake.
- Handle multi-package orders and returns labels explicitly; they are separate requests.
- Keep a fallback carrier path for outages, with a clear way to confirm tracking manually.