Need Help - linking shoe size availabilities from another website to mine

[deshawnl]

Hi guys,

So I run a business customizing shoes, and I've been looking for a way to link the shoe size availabilities of the shoe sizes on my website to another where I source the base products from - for example SPORTSDIRECT or JD SPORTS, or even sportsshoes for example.

Is this an easy task? How would I go about doing this?

Ideally, it would automatically update with changes to the websites meaning that items would show out of stock if they are also out of stock on those respective websites.

Thanks

[gr_trading]

hi @deshawnl ,

It's kind of scrapping thing where you constantly hit the source website for status and update in your website. It's not an easy setup and sometime it depends on source website what platform they are using.

But yes, its doable.

Let me know if you have more questions on it.

[DaisyVo]

Hi @deshawnl 

I totally get what you’re trying to do—it would save a ton of time and prevent customers from ordering sizes that aren’t available. The short answer: it’s possible, but it depends on the setup of the website you're sourcing from. Here’s how you can approach it:

1. Check if the Supplier Has an API

Many big retailers (like JD Sports, SportsDirect, or SportsShoes) might have APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that allow you to pull real-time stock data.

• First, check if they offer a public API or a partner program.
• If they do, you’ll need a developer (or a Shopify app) to integrate it into your store.
• This would allow your website to update stock levels automatically.

🔹 Where to check? Look at their developer docs or contact their support team to ask if API access is available.

2. Use a Web Scraping Method (But Be Careful!)

If they don’t have an API, web scraping is an alternative. This method pulls stock info from their website and updates your store accordingly.

• You’ll need a scraping tool or a custom script to track changes.
• The downside? Many websites block scrapers or change their structure, which can break the connection.
• It’s also against the terms of service for some retailers, so make sure to check first.

3. Use a Third-Party App or Service

There are Shopify apps and automation tools (like Stock Sync, Inventory Source, or Syncee) that help sync inventory from suppliers.

• Some work with specific suppliers, and some allow custom feeds.
• If your suppliers support CSV/XML data feeds, you might be able to automate stock updates without API access.

4. Manually Import Supplier Inventory (Less Ideal, But Works)

If automation isn’t an option, you can:

• Download stock updates from the supplier’s website (if they provide it).
• Use Shopify’s bulk import feature to update stock in one go.
• This works, but it’s not real-time, so you’d need to update it frequently.

Best Option for You?

• If the supplier has an API, that’s your best bet.
• If not, check if a third-party inventory sync app supports their stock feed.
• Web scraping is possible but can be unreliable and risky.
• Manual updates work but aren’t ideal for high-demand products.

If you’re not comfortable with coding, I’d recommend reaching out to a Shopify expert to set up automation for you. It’ll save you headaches in the long run.

If you need any other assistance, I am willing to help.
Best regards,
Daisy.