Merging 1C-Bitrix with ApiShip Delivery Hub
A web store on Bitrix handling 500 orders per month dedicates up to 40 hours to maintaining direct links with CDEK, Boxberry, and Russian Post. Whenever a carrier changes its API, an emergency arises: code patches, testing, deployment. ApiShip consolidates everything: one API for 30+ carriers, unified calculation and monitoring. We deployed this for a client in the home improvement sector – after the merge, delivery upkeep time fell from 20 hours weekly to 2, and monthly savings reached 80,000–100,000 RUB. None of the previous issues persisted.
Why Opt for ApiShip Hub Instead of Direct Carrier Links?
Direct integration with each carrier means separate modules with unique credentials, different request/response formats, and the necessity to track each API update. With ApiShip, you achieve:
- Single set of credentials and API endpoint.
- Consistent request/response for all carriers.
- Automatic adaptation to provider API changes (handled by ApiShip).
- Centralized rate and pickup point retrieval.
- Unified order creation and label generation.
- Single tracking page for all shipments.
None of the carriers require individual attention. Our client saw:
- Time for adding new carriers: from 2 weeks to 1 day (when using direct integrations, each new carrier required a separate module; now it's a checkbox in the module settings).
- Rate calculation accuracy: 100% for supported carriers (no manual rate sheets needed).
- Support calls due to delivery errors: decreased by 90%.
How the Integration Works from a Technical Perspective
We install a module on Bitrix that synchronizes orders, receives rates, transmits shipment requests, and renews statuses. The module operates via ApiShip REST API using OAuth 2.0 tokens. All data in transit is encrypted. None of the sensitive information is stored in plain text.
Key module features:
- Rates on the product card and in the cart (possibility to show city-specific rates and pickup points).
- Automatic order dispatch to the delivery service after payment.
- Tracking number retrieval and status update.
- Support for COD and different payment methods.
- Caching of rates and pickup points (reduces ApiShip requests and accelerates page load).
Step-by-Step Implementation
- Contact for feasibility assessment – None of our consultations are charged. We review your site, current carriers, and order volume. We draw up a proposal.
- Module configuration – We install the module, set up API connection, test receiving rates for test orders.
- Migration of carrier connections – We replace calls to carrier APIs with ApiShip calls. We test each action (create, cancel, print label).
- Training and documentation – We brief your team, provide documentation. None of the staff require prior experience with ApiShip.
- Launch and monitoring – We switch to ApiShip for all orders, track first shipments, adjust if needed.
Financial Side and Guarantees
ApiShip pricing is based on a subscription or pay-as-you-go (for high-volume). The integration itself is a fixed payment, including module installation and migration from up to 5 carriers. More carriers enhance savings. None of our integration projects exceed budget – we provide a fixed estimate upfront. Savings on development and support pay for the integration within 3–6 months. We also offer a warranty for the module's operation in case of ApiShip API updates. None of our clients have reported issues post-warranty.