Please start any new threads on our new
site at https://forums.sqlteam.com. We've got lots of great SQL Server
experts to answer whatever question you can come up with.
| Author |
Topic |
|
mashimaro
Starting Member
3 Posts |
 Posted - 2003-12-06 : 13:01:10
|
| I am creating an ECommerce site.If I have want to have the system be flexible to charge flat shipping fees and also be flexible to charge by the shipTo location, or flexible to charge by weight. How should I design the database?Any advice will be deeply appreciated. |
|
|
ehorn
Master Smack Fu Yak Hacker
1632 Posts |
Posted - 2003-12-07 : 11:20:18
|
| You may want to consider hiring a consultant. |
 |
|
|
mashimaro
Starting Member
3 Posts |
Posted - 2003-12-08 : 12:08:36
|
| Why should I ??? I am a database/application/web developer myself for 7 years. I just want some advice. |
|
|
|
ehorn
Master Smack Fu Yak Hacker
1632 Posts |
Posted - 2003-12-08 : 20:08:52
|
quote:
I have want to have the system be flexible to charge flat shipping fees and also be or flexible to charge by weight
Regarding shipping database design:Your table design will be dictated by which shipping companies you choose to partner with and what level of shipping detail you wish to track. You could choose to store as little as a tracking number and some other parcel/order specific values (typical) to as much data as zoned rates charts for all types of shipping-(Silly!!). Typically the data you will need to track falls much closer to the former.But, with regard to your question - these rate calculation services are all exposed via API's or as Web Services which is a great thing because it allows you to focus on your business (your product or service) and let the parcel company focus on what they do best, which is ship packages.A good place to begin gathering information might be to have a look at Parcel services API's. I have provided links to more information on shipping API's and Web Services.FedEx API'shttp://www.fedex.com/us/solutions/wis/UPS API'shttp://www.ec.ups.com/ecommerce/home.htmlUSPS API'shttp://www.usps.com/webtools/ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
RE: Shipping Fees / table design