Frequently Asked Questions
General
How does Datalastic gather maritime data?
All sailors equip their marine vessels with devices to send AIS (Automatic Identification System) data. Then the data travels to AIS stations by either Terrestrial or Satellite AIS receivers. Marine data is transmitting the signals in NMEA code format. Then the data processing partners decode the data from AIS stations. At the end of this process, Datalastic then stores the maritime information from AIS stations in our databases using the ETL data process (Extract Transform Load) data handling process.
What is the difference between dynamic and static maritime database?
Static maritime data is the data which does not change very often. For example, it can be a port location or port name. These values rarely change and do not require constant updates and attention. Datalastic checks this data on a regular basis and updates the parameters.
Dynamic data, though, can be, for example, vessel speed and location. This type of information changes every minute or even every second. Therefore it must be updated very frequently. So, For this purpose and this type of data you can use API web services.
What is the source of Datalasic data?
The data provided by the Datalastic API is sourced from a variety of sources, including global vessel tracking systems, satellite data, and on-board sensors. This allows us to provide accurate and up-to-date information on the movements of vessels around the world.
How often is Datalastic data updated?
The data provided by the Datalastic API is typically updated every 5 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of data and the availability of updates from our sources. This means that you can access up-to-date information on the movements of vessels and containers at any time.
What's Datalastic coverage?
Can I use Datalastic data for commercial projects?
You can use our data to monetize it and create maps or visual dashboards for your users. That all must stay in line with Datalastic Terms and Conditions as on our website (no direct resell of our API key or data as per Datalastic business model).
Account
How can I download an invoice?
How do I cancel my subscription?
In order to cancel your subscription follow these steps:
1. Log in to your profile.
2. Check the subscription section.
3. Press cancel.
My card is expiring. How can I update it?
In order to update your card follow these steps:
1. Log in to your profile.
2. Go to subscription.
3. Update your credit card information.
Can I pay by invoice instead of card?
Yes, we have the option of paying through an invoice available for an annual subscription.
To arrange invoice payments, please get in touch with our support team at support@datalastic.com and they will assist you with the process.
What happen if I exceed the available amount of request in my plan?
When you exceed the determined number of requests of your plan, your API key will stop working. In order to continue having the access to your data you can upgrade to the next plan.
How can I upgrade or downgrade?
In order to upgrade or downgrade follow these steps:
1. Log in to your profile.
2. Check the subscription section.
3. Press change plan and choose the suitable plan for you.
API Functionalities
Can I track containers with Datalastic API?
You can track the vessel loaded with the container using our API services.
You need to have the MMSI or IMO or Name of the vessel in order to run an API request. Please visit our Documentation page for more information.
My API key is not working?
Your API key might not be working because:
1. You have canceled your subscription. The subscription needs to remain active in order to be able to use the API key. Please reactivate it to keep using the API key by logging into your account.
2. You ran out of API calls. You can check the remaining API requests in your plan by running this API call: https://api.datalastic.com/api/v0/stat?api-key={YOURAPIKEY} If you indeed ran out of all requests you can upgrade to a higher plan to continue data access.
3. You are using a wrong or old API key, search your mailbox for the email with the subject “Welcome to datalastic”, this email contains your API key.
4. If you have tried all above and it is still not working yet, please contact support@datalastic.com
How I can check the number of requests available in my API key?
You can always check the number of used and remaining requests in your plan by calling this request: https://api.datalastic.com/api/v0/stat?api-key={YOUR_API_KEY}
Can I know how many API requests are deducted from my Subscription Plan?
The number of requests deducted from your API key, is different for each plane, depending on your usage. In this regard, you can check our database usage request guide.
What information does the Datalastic vessel and ports API provide?
The Datalastic vessel and ports API provides a range of information, including real-time updates on the movements of vessels, detailed information about each vessel, and data on ports around the world. This allows users to gain a comprehensive understanding of their fleet’s movements and make informed decisions about their operations.
You can check more in our API reference page.
What is the Datalastic vessel and ports API?
The Datalastic vessel and ports API is a tool that allows users to track the movements of vessels and access information about ports in real-time. The API uses advanced algorithms and technology to provide accurate and up-to-date data, allowing users to monitor the movements of their vessels and make informed decisions.
Can the Datalastic vessel and ports API be integrated with existing systems and platforms?
Yes, the Datalastic vessel and ports API is designed to be easily integrated with existing systems and platforms. This allows users to incorporate vessel tracking and port data seamlessly into their existing operations, without the need for extensive customization or development. We support all major programming languages such as Python, Curl, PHP, Ruby, Java, Go, Node, and more.