The Essential Guide to Barcodes for Selling on Amazon

If you're planning to sell products on Amazon, understanding the types of barcodes you'll need is crucial for success. Barcodes are essential for tracking inventory, managing sales, and ensuring smooth transactions. In this guide, we'll cover the different types of barcodes accepted by Amazon, how to choose the right one for your products, and key tips for ensuring your barcodes meet Amazon's requirements.

Types of Barcodes Accepted by Amazon

Amazon primarily accepts two types of barcodes: UPC (Universal Product Code) and EAN (European Article Number). Both types are used to uniquely identify products, but their usage depends on the geographical location of your business and the type of product you are selling.

1. UPC Barcodes

   • What is a UPC Barcode? UPC barcodes are 12-digit codes commonly used in the United States and Canada. They consist of a number system character (a unique identifier for the company), an item number, and a check digit. UPC barcodes are the most widely recognized type of barcode and are often used for consumer goods.
   • How to Get a UPC Barcode? To obtain a UPC barcode, you'll need to register with GS1 (Global Standards 1), an organization responsible for assigning UPC codes. You can purchase UPC codes directly from GS1 or from authorized resellers. Make sure the UPC code is unique to your product and that it matches the product's description and packaging.

2. EAN Barcodes

   • What is an EAN Barcode? EAN barcodes are similar to UPC barcodes but are used internationally. EAN-13 barcodes are 13-digit codes used in most countries outside the U.S. and Canada. They follow a similar structure to UPC barcodes but include an extra digit for international use.
   • How to Get an EAN Barcode? EAN barcodes are also issued by GS1. If you're selling products globally, having an EAN barcode can help ensure your products are easily scanned and recognized in international markets.

Choosing the Right Barcode for Your Product

When choosing a barcode for your product, consider the following factors:

• Geographical Market: If you're selling exclusively in the U.S. or Canada, a UPC barcode is typically sufficient. For international sales, an EAN barcode might be more appropriate.
• Product Type: Some categories of products might have specific barcode requirements. For example, books use ISBNs (International Standard Book Numbers), which are a type of EAN barcode.

Key Tips for Using Barcodes on Amazon

1. Ensure Accuracy: Make sure the barcode you use matches the product's description and packaging. Any discrepancies can lead to issues with inventory tracking and order fulfillment.
2. Register Your Barcodes: Register your barcodes with Amazon through their Seller Central platform. This helps Amazon track and manage your products more effectively.
3. Labeling Requirements: Follow Amazon’s labeling guidelines carefully. Incorrectly labeled products can result in delays or issues with your inventory.
4. Check for Compatibility: Ensure that your barcodes are compatible with Amazon’s system. Sometimes, Amazon may require additional information or verification for your barcodes.
5. Consider Amazon Brand Registry: If you have a registered trademark, consider enrolling in Amazon Brand Registry. This program provides additional protection for your brand and can help you manage your listings more effectively.

Conclusion

Using the correct barcode for selling on Amazon is crucial for a smooth selling experience. Whether you choose UPC or EAN barcodes, make sure they are accurate, properly registered, and compliant with Amazon’s guidelines. By understanding and following these requirements, you'll set yourself up for success in the competitive world of online selling.