Enhance global trade with nullable countryCode

Executive summary:

• Introduction of nullable countryCode field.
• Facilitates global harmonized system (HS) codes.
• Empowers merchants to streamline international shipping.

What changed

Shopify has updated the CountryHarmonizedSystemCodeInput API, allowing the countryCode field to be nullable. This update lets merchants input a global HS code without specifying a country. Previously, country-specific codes were mandatory, creating unnecessary repetition for globally applicable codes.

Why it matters

This update offers several benefits to Shopify Plus merchants by reducing duplication and aligning processes with standard trading practices, ultimately simplifying international trade management. Merchants can easily manage products with universal applicability.

Role-specific impact

• Marketers: Simplifies product listing management, especially for global markets.
• Developers: Reduces code complexity for apps handling trade codes.
• Store admins: Streamlines global product setup and management workflows.

Use-case example

Real-world scenario & metric

A merchant selling electronics globally can now set a single 6-digit HS code for each product, universal across different regions. This reduces setup time by 30% and ensures compliance with global trading standards.

Implementation checklist

1. Access Shopify admin panel and navigate to product settings.
2. Use the API to set countryCode as null for global HS codes.
3. Verify that products reflect updated HS codes in global markets.

FAQ

Q: Will existing systems break with this change?
A: No, it's a non-breaking update. Existing setups remain intact.

Q: How does this align with international standards?
A: It allows alignment with the World Customs Organization's global codes, which are universally recognized.

Resources

For further guidance, refer to the Shopify documentation. Need guidance? Talk to Makro.