README.md

Decatur Service URLs Scraper

Introduction

The Decatur Service URLs Scraper is an Apify Actor designed to efficiently extract job listings from Craigslist based on specified search queries. This tool empowers users with data-driven insights by providing comprehensive and structured access to Craigslist's vast repository of service-related posts.

Features

• Automated Data Extraction: Seamlessly scrape Craigslist for specific job listings.
• Customizable Search Queries: Tailor searches using user-defined terms.
• Flexible Output Formats: Export results in JSON, CSV, or Excel formats.
• Proxy Support: Configure proxy settings to enhance privacy and access control.
• Scalable Performance: Handle large volumes of data with ease.
• High Data Reliability: Ensure consistent and accurate data retrieval.

Input Parameters

Parameter	Type	Required	Description	Example
searchQuery	string	Yes	Search term to look up on Craigslist.	"account"
maxItems	integer	No	Maximum number of job listings to scrape (0 = unlimited).	100
proxyConfiguration	object	No	Proxy settings for the scraper, including whether to use Apify's proxy.	{ "useApifyProxy": false }

Example Usage

Input JSON

{
  "searchQuery": "account",
  "maxItems": 100,
  "proxyConfiguration": {
    "useApifyProxy": false
  }
}

Output JSON

[
  {
    "postingId": 36067878,
    "title": "Midwest's largest piano store - open Sat & Sun!",
    "priceCents": 699,
    "priceDisplay": "$699",
    "url": "https://www.craigslist.org/view/d/0jm0am/spSrJE2PTeaDFEsKvFVo1j",
    "images": [
      "https://images.craigslist.org/00b0b_grXIvF8O17v_0jm0am_600x450.jpg",
      ...
    ],
    "hasImages": true,
    "hasMap": true,
    "location": "1:1~39.934~-88.8052",
    "latitude": 39.934,
    "longitude": -88.8052,
    "repostToken": "spSrJE2PTeaDFEsKvFVo1j",
    "bundleGroup": null,
    "searchQuery": "account",
    "searchPath": "sse",
    "areaId": 569,
    "scrapedAt": "2026-07-15T08:49:27.238Z"
  }
]

Use Cases

• Market Research and Analysis: Gain insights into market trends by analyzing job listings.
• Competitive Intelligence: Monitor competitor activities in the service industry.
• Price Monitoring: Track pricing strategies across various service offerings.
• Content Aggregation: Collect data for content creation or aggregation platforms.
• Academic Research: Use structured data for research projects and studies.
• Business Automation: Automate data collection processes to enhance operational efficiency.

Installation and Usage

1. Search for "Decatur Service URLs Scraper" in the Apify Store.
2. Click "Try for free" or "Run".
3. Configure input parameters according to your needs.
4. Click "Start" to begin extraction.
5. Monitor progress in the log section.
6. Export results in your preferred format (JSON, CSV, Excel).

Output Format

The output is a JSON array of objects, each representing a job listing with fields such as postingId, title, priceCents, url, and images. Key metadata includes location, latitude, longitude, and timestamps like scrapedAt.

Error Handling Information

• Invalid Search Query: If the search query is invalid or returns no results, an error message will be logged.
• Proxy Configuration Errors: Ensure correct proxy settings to avoid connectivity issues.
• Rate Limiting: Handle rate limits by adjusting request frequency or using proxies.

Rate Limiting and Best Practices

• Use Apify's built-in proxy service to manage rate limiting effectively.
• Configure maxItems to control the volume of data processed, reducing server load.
• Regularly monitor logs for any errors or warnings during execution.

Limitations and Considerations

• Craigslist Changes: The scraper may need updates if Craigslist alters its site structure.
• Data Volume: Large queries might require increased processing time.
• Proxy Dependency: Proxy settings are crucial for uninterrupted data access.

Support

For custom/simplified outputs or bug reports, please contact:

• Email: support@getdataforme.com
• Subject line: "custom support"
• Contact form: Contact Us

We're here to help you get the most out of this Actor!

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Description

Discover market insights with the Decatur Service URLs Scraper. Automate Craigslist job listing extraction, customize searches, and export data in multiple formats. Ideal for market research, competitive intelligence, and business automation. Start scraping today!