Deprecation of POST requests without a Content-Length or Transfer-Encoding: chunked header
Discover the Update: Real-World Impact in Plain English
Shopify is enhancing the way APIs handle requests to make the platform more secure and standards-compliant. Imagine going to a cafe and ordering a coffee without specifying the size; confusion ensues, right? Similarly, starting August 1, 2025, all requests to Shopify APIs should have a clear ‘Content-Length’ or ‘Transfer-Encoding: chunked’ header. These headers let Shopify know the ‘size of the coffee cup’—or request—in your order. Failing to do so will result in a ‘411 Length Required’ error, which means your request won’t be processed until clarified.
Let’s talk on Tech side
For developers, the shift means tweaking how POST requests are formed. The HTTP standards IPv4 and HTTP/1.1 outline that POST requests should specify their size or indicate chunked transfers to ensure accurate data parsing. This change prevents security risks like request smuggling. Here’s a simple POST request with the required header showcased:
import requests
url = "https://shopify-store.myshopify.com/api/2025-08/some_endpoint"
data = {"key": "value"}
headers = {
"Content-Length": str(len(data)) # Exact size of the request body in bytes
}
response = requests.post(url, json=data, headers=headers)
print(response.status_code)
Ensure your applications and client libraries handle these headers. In most modern HTTP client libraries, these headers are included automatically, minimizing the need for manual adjustments.
Business Growth Unleashed: What This Means for Merchants
For merchants, these updates, albeit technical, translate into a more secure environment and consistent API interactions. As Shopify aligns with standardized practices, merchants can expect fewer technical hitches, leading to smoother site operations and enhanced user experiences. By securing communications between your store and API, you reduce risks of data breaches, ensuring customer data remains confidential. This security can enhance brand trust, encouraging long-term customer relations, ultimately boosting retention and growth.
Trident Spark: Your Trusted Shopify Innovation Partner
At Trident Spark, we pride ourselves on keeping your Shopify stores running seamlessly. As experts in Shopify development and API integration, we ensure that updates like these are seamlessly integrated into your workflows. Whether it’s updating client libraries or crafting bespoke solutions, we are your partners in navigating Shopify’s evolving landscape.
Connect with Trident Spark Today!
Stay ahead in the Shopify game by partnering with us today! For seamless Shopify upgrades, custom application development, and tailored solutions, reach out to Trident Spark. Let us help you optimize your store for growth and security in line with the latest enhancements.