Getting Unexpected Token Export

Dealing with Node.js versions under v14.13.0

For Node.js versions older than v14.13.0, ES6 modules aren't supported. The good news is you’ve got options:

• Refactor to use CommonJS syntax:

  const myFunction = require('./myFunction'); // Requires no introduction!
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• Use a transpiler like esbuild or Babel to opt-in to ES6:

  // "My transpile-ation will go on" (Titanic)
  require('esbuild').buildSync({ /* ...transpilation settings... */ });
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TypeScript and ts-node: Your new BFFs

TypeScript provides smooth support for ES6 syntax in Node.js. Tools like ts-node or ts-node-dev allow running TypeScript files directly, "it's like running on the wind!" (Forrest Gump):

ts-node myScript.ts
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Native support vs. Transpilation

While transpilation tools like esbuild and Babel are fantastic, using native ES6 module support in Node.js v14.13.0+ might just be the One Ring to rule them all (Lord of the Rings) if your environment supports it.

Module export-import dance

• Export a class or function using export or export default in ES6:

  // "I am exported, hear me _node_" (Game of Thrones)
  export default class MyClass {} 
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• Likewise, import these in another ES6 module:

  import MyClass from './myModule'; // "Keep your friends close, but your modules closer"
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• In CommonJS, exports go through the module.exports object:

  module.exports = {
    myGreatFunction, // "Hasta la vista, script"
  };
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• And import, you ask?

  const { myGreatFunction } = require('./myModule'); // "Say hello to my little function"
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When imports and exports collide

Mixing ES6 and CommonJS syntax? A recipe for Import/Export error. Always double-check!

Browser Considerations

Make sure to specify type="module" in your script tags for browser code:

<script type="module" src="./myModule.js"></script>
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Scalable Module Strategies

To navigate a range of environments:

• Use dynamic import() for conditional module loading.
• Try lazy loading for a performance boost.
• Utilize code splitting and chunking with webpack for efficient bundles.