If you run a business and are looking for an effective way to manage business-to-business (B2B) sales and integrations, you’ve probably heard of Shopify. This popular eCommerce platform offers a comprehensive API (Application Programming Interface) that allows businesses to seamlessly integrate their B2B system with the Shopify platform.

However, as with any API, there are some limitations that businesses need to be aware of when using the Shopify API for B2B integrations. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into these limitations and why it’s important to understand them well before using Shopify for B2B integration.

One of the main limitations of using Shopify API for B2B integration is that it requires a Shopify Plus account. Unlike standard plans, which are aimed at small and medium-sized businesses, Shopify Plus is designed specifically for larger, high-volume merchants. This means that to access the API, companies must first upgrade to a more expensive plan, which may not be feasible for all companies, especially those just starting out. That’s why it’s important to carefully consider whether it’s worth investing in a Shopify Plus account for B2B integrations.

Another important caveat that businesses should keep in mind is that the Shopify API is primarily intended for B2C (business-to-consumer) integrations. This means that it may not have all the necessary features and functionalities for B2B integration, such as complex pricing structures, multiple tiers of billing and discounts, and integration with B2B payment gateways. While Shopify offers some B2B-specific apps and integrations, they may not fully meet the unique needs of a B2B business.

Also, note that the Shopify API is not intended for wholesale businesses. The Shopify platform and API are intended for retail businesses where customers typically purchase one or more products at a time. This can be a challenge for wholesalers with different pricing structures and purchasing patterns.

Before integrating, it’s important to carefully consider whether the Shopify API meets your B2B wholesale needs. Businesses should also be aware of the limitations of customizing and scaling using the Shopify API. While the platform offers a wide range of customization options, some businesses may find it limiting compared to other eCommerce platforms. Additionally, as your B2B business grows, there may be limitations to scaling with the Shopify API.