How to Use the Shopify API with Node.js: A Beginner’s Guide

Learn how to use the Shopify API with Node.js in 2025. This beginner’s guide covers setup, authentication, REST & GraphQL calls, and app development tips using Shopify API Node.

In 2025, the eCommerce industry continues to evolve rapidly, and Shopify remains one of the most powerful platforms for online stores. If you’re a developer looking to build custom Shopify apps or integrations, learning how to use the Shopify API with Node.js is an essential skill.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting started with the Shopify API Node setup, including authentication, making REST and GraphQL API calls, and building a basic integration with Node.js.

Why Use Node.js with the Shopify API?

Node.js is lightweight, fast, and perfect for building scalable backend services. It works well with modern APIs, and Shopify even offers official tools and SDKs that support Node.js. Whether you’re creating a private app for a client or a public app for the Shopify App Store, Node.js helps you develop efficiently and deploy faster.

Getting Started: Setting Up Your Shopify App

To begin working with the Shopify API using Node.js, you’ll first need to create a Shopify Partner account. Once registered, you can create a development store and set up an app from the Shopify Partners Dashboard.

In your app setup, Shopify will ask for your app name, redirect URLs, and API scopes. This process gives you an API key and API secret, which you’ll need to authorize and access store data securely.

Next, set up your Node.js environment. Most developers use Express.js for quick routing and middleware, but you can use any framework you prefer.

Installing Required Packages

To get started with your Shopify API Node integration, install the official Shopify libraries:

npm install @shopify/shopify-api express dotenv

Create a .env file to store your credentials securely and configure your server to use them. This keeps sensitive keys out of your source code.

Authenticating with the Shopify Admin API

Shopify uses OAuth 2.0 for authentication. When a merchant installs your app, they’ll be redirected to a Shopify URL where they can approve permissions. Once approved, Shopify redirects them back to your app with a code that can be exchanged for an access token.

Here’s a simplified flow:

1. Redirect to Shopify’s OAuth screen.
2. Receive an authorization code.
3. Exchange the code for a permanent access token.
4. Use the token to make API requests.

Once authenticated, you’re ready to call the API using either REST or GraphQL.

Making Your First Shopify API Call (REST & GraphQL)

Using the REST Admin API, a simple GET request to fetch products might look like this in Node.js:

const { Shopify } = require('@shopify/shopify-api');

Shopify.Context.initialize({
  API_KEY: process.env.SHOPIFY_API_KEY,
  API_SECRET_KEY: process.env.SHOPIFY_API_SECRET,
  SCOPES: ['read_products'],
  HOST_NAME: 'your-app.com',
  IS_EMBEDDED_APP: true,
  API_VERSION: '2024-04',
});

const client = new Shopify.Clients.Rest('your-store.myshopify.com', 'access-token');

const products = await client.get({
  path: 'products',
});

If you prefer GraphQL (which is more efficient), here’s a sample:

const client = new Shopify.Clients.Graphql('your-store.myshopify.com', 'access-token');

const query = `{
  products(first: 5) {
    edges {
      node {
        id
        title
      }
    }
  }
}`;

const response = await client.query({ data: query });

Both REST and GraphQL give you full control over Shopify store data, and each has its advantages depending on your needs.

Handling Shopify Webhooks in Node.js

Webhooks allow your app to respond to events in real-time — for example, when a new order is placed or a product is updated. Shopify can send a POST request to your Node.js server every time a specific event occurs.

Using the Shopify Node SDK, you can register and verify webhooks easily. Just make sure your server supports HTTPS, as Shopify requires secure endpoints.

Common Use Cases for Shopify API Node

Many developers use the Shopify API Node setup to build solutions like:

• Custom storefronts using the Storefront API and React/Vue
• Inventory synchronization with external systems
• Order fulfillment tracking and automation
• Dashboard analytics using real-time store data
• Backend automation for product uploads or bulk updates

These use cases highlight how versatile Shopify + Node.js can be for e-commerce development.

Best Practices for 2025

With Shopify regularly updating its API versions (now every quarter), always use the latest stable version in your app. For 2025, the current stable version is 2024-04, and another release is expected mid-year. Also, limit your API calls to avoid rate limits and ensure you’re caching data wherever possible to improve app performance.

Security is critical — use HTTPS for all endpoints, store sensitive data securely, and always validate incoming requests (especially for webhooks) using Shopify’s HMAC signature.

Using Shopify API with Node.js is one of the most efficient ways to build robust, scalable apps for the Shopify ecosystem. Whether you’re creating a custom backend, automation tool, or a full-fledged public app, this combination gives you the power and flexibility needed in 2025.

As Shopify continues to expand its capabilities, staying up-to-date with the latest API changes and development tools will help you stay ahead in the eCommerce space.