It is very confusing that EBay has launched the restful APIs but still maintains the traditional APIs like Trading API.
We have an existing application which uses ebay java SDK (trading API). However, due to dependency issues, we are unable to use the eBay java SDK in java 11 environment. We are stuck at java 8.
Now, we decided to move to Java 11. First thing we need to do is to rewrite the code related to eBay so that it works with Java 11.
We have two options:
1. Use the old trading API without the ebay's SDK
2. Use the new Sell API, Fulfillment and Feed API.
The features we need are:
1. Able to download orders
2. Able to upload the order fulfillment information (e.g. mark order completed, and add tracking number to the order)
3. Update inventory quantity
4. Obtain product/inventory information
5. Check buyer's feedback details
6. Able to send and retrieve ebay messages.
Based on my limited research on the new restful ebay apis, I can see 1, 2, 3 and 4 can be done in either new API. However, 5 and 6 can only be down using the trading API.
Now, we will have to make the decision. Use the new API (do not offer 5 and 6 to our clients, even if it is VERY USEFUL), or stick with Trading API.
I can see the new API is future-proof, will ebay provide 5 and 6 in the near future?
Or if we stick with trading API, we are afraid that one day ebay may deprecate trading API, then we will have to re-write the code again.
This is happening at Amazon. Amazon has the MWS, now they are deprecating it and developers must move to their Restful API.
So, ebay, what is your support statement of the Trading API? Will it eventually be replaced by your new Restful API?
Thanks