Integrate TikTok Shop API with 3rd Party Applications

Introduction

Welcome to this guide on integrating the TikTok Shop API seamlessly. This article aims to simplify the process so you can start coding your integration without getting overwhelmed by extensive API documentation. Prior to diving into the details, it is assumed that you possess basic knowledge of REST API documentation and OAuth 2.0.

Getting Started

To begin integrating with TikTok Shop API, the first step is to register on the TikTok Shop Partner Portal. It’s important to note that there are two different TikTok Shop Partner Portals, which can lead to confusion regarding where to sign up. Let's clarify this by outlining three different scenarios for registration.

Registration Scenarios

US-Based Company Targeting US Shops: If you are a registered company based in the United States aiming to target only US-based TikTok shops, you should sign up at the US TikTok Partner Portal.
US Company Targeting International Shops: If you are a registered US business that intends to target TikTok shops outside of the United States as well, you'll need to sign up for both the US Partner Portal and the Global Partner Portal. This means completing the steps mentioned in this article in both portals.
Non-US Registered Company: If you are not registered in the US and wish to target TikTok shops both in the US and internationally, sign up for the Global Partner Portal.

Once registered, you’ll access a user-friendly dashboard where you can click the "Get Started" button.

Setting Up Your Integration

After clicking the "Get Started" button, you’ll need to input your business registration details. Be careful when selecting your registration place, as this option cannot be changed later. Following this, you will select the target shops you want to build your integration for, including user demographics and target countries.

Next, you will have to choose the relevant business category, and if you are an in-house developer for a TikTok shop owner, select the "In-House Developer" option. You will then be required to verify your account via your TikTok Shop admin email. Upon successful verification, your partner account will be approved, generally within two to three business days.

Creating an App

Once your partner account is approved, a new menu item titled “Apps and Services” will appear in the left sidebar. Click on this menu, and then on the “Create App and Services” button located in the top right corner. You will be prompted to select an app type—either a public app (for publishing in the TikTok Store) or a custom app (for sharing with individual sellers).

Regardless of your choice, there are no differences in data access level or API call rate limitations between public and custom apps. Fill in the required fields, including redirect URLs and webhook URLs, and submit your app creation form.

After submission, you will receive essential details such as your App ID and App Secret Token. Before testing the API, it’s necessary to apply for the relevant data permissions that your app will require. Navigate to the "Manage API" section and apply for the necessary permissions to get going.

Testing the API

To test the API, click on the "Development Kits" link on the left sidebar, followed by the “API Testing Tool” link. Choose the endpoint you want to call and select the "Use Platform App Key." This allows you to experiment with API endpoints using mock data, which will help you structure API responses in your application.

API Rate Limitations

The TikTok Shop API allows up to 50 API requests per second for each store. These limits are unique to each store; therefore, if your TikTok API is connected to multiple stores, you can make 50 API calls per second per store. Additionally, if a TikTok store is linked to multiple applications, each app can make 50 API calls per second.

Rate limitation management is done using the Leaky Bucket method, replenishing your request once you reach the limit.

These instructions should serve as a solid starting point for developing your integration with TikTok Shop API. For detailed instructions, feel free to refer to the links provided in this presentation.

Keywords

TikTok Shop API
Integration
OAuth 2.0
Partner Portal
App Creation
API Testing
Data Permissions
Rate Limitations

FAQ

Q: What is the first step to integrate with TikTok Shop API?
A: The first step is to register on the TikTok Shop Partner Portal.

Q: How do I know which Partner Portal to sign up for?
A: Choose the US partner portal if you are a US-based company targeting US shops. If you also want to target international shops, sign up for both the US and Global Partner Portals.

Q: What kind of apps can I create?
A: You can create either a public app to publish on the TikTok app store or a custom app for distribution without restrictions.

Q: How do I test the API?
A: You can test the API by accessing the “Development Kits” section and using the “API Testing Tool” with mock data.

Q: What are the API rate limitations?
A: Each store allows up to 50 API requests per second, which is separate for each store connected.