Session launch
A cXML buyer connection starts PunchOut from procurement and opens the configured supplier catalog.
Shopify cXML PunchOut
Connect cXML procurement workflows to Shopify.
PunchOut Central supports cXML buyer connections while your existing Shopify or Shopify Plus store remains the supplier catalog. The returned cart goes through buyer approval before a store order is created.
Procurement protocolcXML
cXML
PunchOut CentralBuyer to supplier
Protocol support for PunchOut and procurement transactions.
Connection roles
cXML is the protocol, not the storefront.
The buyer uses a procurement system; the supplier uses Shopify. PunchOut Central connects their configured workflow.
Buyer procurementcXML connection
→
PunchOut CentralSession and transaction
→
ShopifySupplier catalog and order
cXML workflow
Keep cart selection separate from the approved order.
The connection is configured and tested for each buyer’s requirements.
Cart return
The selected cart returns to procurement for the buyer’s approval. No Shopify order is created at this point.
Approved PO
PunchOut Central connects the approved purchase order to the buyer and earlier cart.
Supplier order
The approved PO creates the corresponding Shopify order, with invoice activity visible later in the transaction.
Implementation scope
Confirm the buyer configuration before launch.
The procurement system, buyer credentials, catalog access, cart return and purchase-order handling should be checked with the buyer during onboarding.
Implementation readiness
Prepare the cXML connection.
Use this protocol checklist to align the buyer platform, cXML messages and Shopify order handoff.
Identify the buyer procurement platform and its cXML version or message requirements.
Exchange PunchOut URL, sender identity, shared secret and buyer/supplier identifiers.
Map the Shopify catalog, buyer access, pricing and required return fields.
Test setup request, catalog session, cart return, approved PO and invoice requirements.
Bring these details before setup.
- Buyer procurement administrator and test environment
- cXML sender identity, shared secret and endpoint values
- Buyer and supplier IDs plus catalog and pricing rules
- OrderRequest, PO and invoice requirements for the buyer platform
Plan the go-live around testing.
Plan a few business days for a standard single-buyer cXML connection after the buyer test environment and credentials are ready. Buyer-specific messages, validation rules or custom document handling can extend the schedule.
The connection is ready when the buyer can launch the catalog, return a cart and complete the agreed PO test.
Supported flows
What the cXML PunchOut connection covers.
| Flow | Status | What to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| PunchOutSetupRequest | Supported | The buyer starts the cXML session. |
| Cart return | Supported | PunchOutOrderMessage returns the selected cart. |
| Buyer approval | Buyer-managed | The procurement platform manages requisition approval. |
| OrderRequest to Shopify | Supported | The approved PO creates the Shopify order. |
| Invoice messages | Buyer-configured | Confirm invoice message and delivery requirements. |
FAQ
cXML questions
Yes. cXML PunchOut is live: setup request, catalog launch, cart return, approved PO to Shopify order, and invoice activity.
Yes. Standard supported integration setup and onboarding are included at no extra charge. Buyer-specific custom development is separate.
No. cXML is a procurement communication protocol. The buyer’s procurement system and its configuration determine the connection requirements.
No. The selected cart returns to procurement for approval; the approved PO leads to the Shopify order.
Yes. Confirm the buyer’s settings and test the session, cart return and PO flow before launch.
Plan a cXML connection
Bring the buyer’s cXML requirements.
Review the procurement system, Shopify catalog and transaction steps together.