This document covers the most common questions about getting started with the MerchantSpring MCP Server.
1. Do I need access to the MerchantSpring API Gateway in order to use the MCP server?
Yes.
The MCP server connects directly to the MerchantSpring API Gateway and requires a valid MerchantSpring API key to function.
If you’re unsure whether your plan includes API Gateway access, please check with our support team or your account manager.
2. Does the MCP server consume MerchantSpring AI credits?
No.
The MCP server is accessed through external AI tools such as Claude Desktop. Any usage of AI features or large language models (LLMs) to interpret and process data is handled by your own subscription to Claude Desktop or other supported platforms.
3. Which clients and tools are supported?
Right now, the MCP server supports the following clients:
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Claude Desktop
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Claude Code
⚠️ Not yet supported: ChatGPT.
OpenAI has only recently released limited functionality for MCP support, and ChatGPT integration is not available at this stage.
4. What happens if I use the demo API key?
The configuration file you received includes a demo API key so you can get started right away.
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This will connect you to MerchantSpring’s demo store.
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Once you have your own API Gateway access, you must replace the demo key with your own API key and restart Claude Desktop to access your own data.
5. What data does the MCP server have access to?
The MCP server can access all of the API endpoints within the MerchantSpring API Gateway that your developer profile or API Gateway account has access to.
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Your permissions and entitlements determine which data is available.
6. Where can I find my API key?
You can find your API key by:
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Visiting developer.merchantspring.io.
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Logging in with your MerchantSpring account.
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Navigating to My Dashboard (top right of the screen).
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Your API key and API usage details will be displayed there.
7. Does the usage of the MCP server count towards my API usage?
Yes.
Any API Gateway requests made by the MCP server using your API key will count as API requests under your MerchantSpring account.
8. Who do I contact for support?
If you have any issues with setup or access, please reach out to:
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Or your account manager directly.