A business example
An online shop sends each new order to a delivery provider through an integration.
Request
The shop sends the permitted order and delivery fields.
Response
The provider returns a shipment reference or an error.
Reconciliation
The shop records the response and handles failed or duplicate requests.
What this shows
An API call is an exchange with a result, not proof that the shipment was created successfully. Error handling closes the loop.
What it is often confused with
Access to an API does not establish permission to share every data field or call it without limits.
What to look at in your business
Document authentication, permitted use, limits and failure handling.
Context and further reading
This entry explains the business term. The related guide below provides the next layer of context; any applicable legal test depends on the transaction and relevant period.
Kosha.Services · Updated 2 October 2026