To help automate processes within ShipStore, we offer a desktop installed app call the Merchant. This app connects to the ShipStore portal and handles commands from the site that would normally require user intervention. Supported actions are:

  • Exchanging data with local databases
  • Printing documents via local printer (either installed or networked)
  • Interacting with shipping scales (USB, serial, or TCP)
  • Exchanging files through local drives 
NOTE:  In order for the Merchant app and website to communicate with each other, you will need to be logged into both with the same user credentials.

Installing the Merchant application

To install the app, go to the following URL and download/run the installer when prompted:


Run through the installer, modifying any settings as needed. Once complete, you should see a new icon on your desktop and start menu for the Merchant app:


 

First time setup

NOTE:  If you receive an error saying the "connection was actively refused" when trying to log into the Merchant app, you will need to work with your IT team to open the following ports to the Merchant app server:
  • 9090
  • 5222
  • 5223
If using a hosted SS solution, the Merchant app server IPs are:
  • 52.173.255.71
  • 104.43.163.173

Logging in

When you run the Merchant app, the first step will be to log in with your username and password. These should be the same credentials you use to log into the ShipStore portal.

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Note: If you are using one of our more custom environments (i.e. private cloud or enterprise), you will need to click the Advanced Options button and update your settings there to point to your specific version of ShipStore. If you do not know the settings to enter here, contact either your IT team or the ShipStore support team.

Station Setup

After logging in, the system will check if your station is configured in the portal. If not already configured, you will be prompted to configure your station before you can proceed. Please see here for details on configuring your station: How to configure a station in the Merchant app

Using the application

Once the app confirms both the station and user configurations are valid, the app will minimize itself down to the task tray on the start menu bar (next to the clock). The app will stay connected and run in the background processing any requests the system send to it.

To interact with the app once minimized, find the icon for the Merchant app in your task tray and right-click the icon. You should see the following options:

  • View Main Window - Opens main window displaying communication log
  • Settings - Opens the Configure Station window
  • Submit a Ticket - Opens the New Ticket page within the ShipStore help center 
  • Remote Support - Opens the ShipStore remote support download
  • Exit - Closes the ShipStore  Merchant application