> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.traddocs.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Welcome to TradDocs

TradDocs provides an API that allows trade professionals to seamlessly split, extract, parse, and compare shipping documents, including Contract, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, Invoice, Packing List, and more.

<Note>You can see which document types we support [here](../endpoints/document/types/bill-of-lading)</Note>
<Info>Looking for real-time support? Join our [Discord](https://discord.gg/xgEXkh7Rxk)</Info>

## Accessing the API

We offer two types of API keys:

* **Production API Key**: Used for live, real-world applications with higher rate limits.
* **Sandbox API Key**: Used for development and testing purposes with lower rate limits and a 4-week expiration period.

To obtain either a Production or Sandbox API key, please contact us directly. We will assist you in setting up the appropriate access based on your needs.

## Prerequisites

To complete this quickstart, you need:

* A TradDocs [account](https://www.traddocs.com)
* An API key

## Authentication

All requests must include an `x-api-key` header with your API key.

```json cURL theme={null}
curl https://api.traddocs.com/$TRADDOCS_ENDPOINT \
     -H "x-api-key: $TRADDOCS_API_KEY" \
     ...
```

## Next Steps

Now that you have made your first TradDocs API request, it's time to explore additional features and capabilities:

<CardGroup cols={3}>
  <Card title="Check Endpoints" icon="square-1" href="../endpoints/document/endpoint/analyze">
    Discover all the endpoints available for your integration needs.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Review Rate Limits" icon="square-2" href="./ratelimit">
    Learn about the rate limits to ensure optimal API usage.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Supported Document Types" icon="square-3" href="../endpoints/document/types/bill-of-lading">
    See the types of documents that can be processed with TradDocs.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>