createOrder

CreateOrder is a function, API endpoint, or workflow used to convert a cart into a formal order within an e-commerce or order-management system. It gathers customer information, cart items, pricing, and shipping and payment details to initiate fulfillment and payment processes.

Inputs typically include a customer ID, item list with quantities and prices (or a cart reference), billing and shipping addresses, shipping method, payment token, and any promotions. Systems validate authentication, item availability, and price consistency before proceeding.

During processing, inventory is checked, totals are calculated (subtotal, tax, shipping, discounts), and an order record is created with an initial status such as pending. An order number is generated, inventory may be reserved, and payment authorization may be initiated or deferred.

On success, the response includes the order ID, current status, total amount, and estimated fulfillment. On failure, it returns an error code and message indicating stock, data, or payment issues.

Common data fields include: orderId, customerId, lineItems (productId, quantity, price), totals (subtotal, tax, shipping, total), status, timestamps, paymentId, shippingAddress, billingAddress, and fulfillment status. Idempotency keys prevent duplicates.

Best practices emphasize server-side creation, thorough validation, secure handling of payment tokens, and clear separation of cart, checkout, payment, and fulfillment logic. Some systems support asynchronous processing for responsiveness.

Related concepts include cart, checkout, payment processing, inventory, and order fulfillment.