Overview
BlackBox offers flexible integration options that allow it to work seamlessly with external systems like WMS, TMS, ERP platforms, or custom in-house software. It uses a simple XML interface to receive load planning requests and return optimized results, enabling full automation of the cartonization process.
Requirements
- BlackBox version v5.0 or higher.
- Network access to BlackBox REST endpoint or shared folder.
- Ability to generate XML-formatted job files from external system.
Product Information
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Integration Overview
BlackBox can operate as a standalone service or as part of an automated pipeline. It receives XML input via API or file-based triggers and returns optimized cartonization plans using the same XML structure. -
Integration Methods
Supported integration options include:- REST API – Sync/Async: Submit load requests via HTTP POST to `/sync` or `/async`. Results are returned inline (sync) or later via polling (async).
- Watched Folder: Drop XML job files into a designated folder. BlackBox monitors this folder, processes the file, and writes the result to an output folder.
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System Compatibility
Commonly integrated systems include:-
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS):
- Automates carton selection and placement instructions based on pick lists.
- e.g. Korber, Blue Yonder, Manhattan.
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Transportation Management Systems (TMS):
- Evaluates multiple load scenarios to reduce freight costs.
- e.g. Descartes Route Planner.
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ERP / Order Management:
- Automatically triggers cartonization at checkout or order finalization.
- e.g. SAP, NetSuite.
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Warehouse Management Systems (WMS):
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Automation Behavior
- BlackBox is stateless, so each request is processed independently.
- No data is stored unless explicitly configured.
- This makes it safe to integrate into high-volume systems.
Assistance
If any further assistance is needed, please contact our Support team.