What is the Goods Description Update API for CargoWise operations?

Prasanth M.

April 4, 2025

Even the smallest detail, such as container dimensions or cargo sources, is essential to ensuring efficient freight transportation. Among these, product descriptions are one of the most important data elements in any shipping procedure. Precise product descriptions guarantee adherence to regulations, save delays at customs, and assist freight forwarders in effectively handling shipments.

For CargoWise users, manually updating item descriptions for shipments can be time-consuming and error-prone. This is when the Goods Description Update API comes into play. Without the trouble of manual data entry, it enables freight forwarders to automatically update shipment details within CargoWise, guaranteeing that every consignment contains accurate product descriptions.

Understanding the Goods Description Update API

The Goods Description Update API is an integration tool that automates the update of product descriptions in CargoWise. Instead of manually amending shipment details, this API enables freight forwarders and logistics providers to change descriptions of goods easily and in real time.

This API is particularly useful for companies that:

  • Handle high shipment volumes and frequently update product details.
  • Need to ensure compliance with international customs regulations.
  • Want to reduce human errors in freight documentation?
  • Aim to enhance operational efficiency by integrating automation into their workflow.

How Does the Goods Description Update API Work?

Step 1: API Authentication and Setup

Before using the API, you need authentication credentials. The API requires an x-api-key for secure access. The essential API details include:

URL, Content-Type, Authorization, Method;

This ensures that only authorized systems can send updates to CargoWise, keeping your data secure.

Step 2: API Input Parameters

To process a request for updating goods descriptions, the API requires three main parameters. First, the Reference Number (RefNumber), which is a unique identifier for the shipment. Second, the Shipment Number (ShipmentNo), a unique shipment identifier within CargoWise. Lastly, the Goods Description (GoodsDescription), which specifies the nature of the items being shipped. Providing these details ensures accurate updates to shipment records, improving documentation and compliance within the system.

Step 3: Sample JSON Request for Updating Goods Descriptions

The API enables users to update multiple shipments in a single request, enhancing efficiency and saving time. Instead of processing individual shipments separately, users can send a batch request containing multiple Reference Numbers (RefNumber), Shipment Numbers (ShipmentNo), and Goods Descriptions (GoodsDescription). This allows the system to update the goods descriptions for multiple shipments simultaneously, ensuring accurate and streamlined data management within CargoWise.

Step 4: API Processing and Validation

Once the request is submitted, the API:

  • Validates the shipment number and reference number to ensure they exist in CargoWise.
  • Checks for formatting errors in the goods description.
  • Updates the shipment details in CargoWise.

If any validation fails, the system returns an error message, allowing you to correct and resubmit the request.

Step 5: API Response and Confirmation

Once the goods descriptions are updated, the API sends a confirmation response indicating that the update was successful. The response includes a status message confirming the update, along with details of the updated records, such as the Reference Number (RefNumber), Shipment Number (ShipmentNo), and Goods Description (GoodsDescription). This ensures that all modifications are accurately reflected within the CargoWise system in real-time, providing users with up-to-date shipment information and improving operational efficiency.

How to Get Started with the Goods Description Update API?

If you’re a CargoWise user looking to automate and streamline your shipment data management, integrating the Goods Description Update API is a step in the right direction.

Steps to Implement the CargoWise API services in Your System:

  • Contact Our API Experts – We’ll help you set up authentication and configure the API for your CargoWise system.
  • Test the API in a Sandbox Environment – Before full deployment, test the API to ensure smooth functionality.
  • Deploy and Automate – Once validated, integrate the API into your CargoWise operations for seamless automation.
  • Monitor and Optimize – Use real-time reporting to track API performance and refine logistics workflows.

Conclusion

Updating goods descriptions in CargoWise does not have to be a laborious, error-prone operation. Freight forwarders and logistics companies can increase overall operational speed, cut down on errors, and guarantee compliance by using the Goods Description Update API.

You can improve accuracy, save time, and maximize freight documentation like never before by automating this procedure.

Contact us today to find out how the Goods Description Update API may streamline your logistics workflows and increase shipment processing efficiency.

author avatar

Prasanth M.

Prasanth is a renowned Content Writer at Elicit Technology with over two years of experience in professional writing. With his intuitive writing skills, he finds inspiration in words and compelling narratives in the Logistics and Supply Chain industry.