Resources

Do you need a barcode for self-published work? 

In the world of retail sales there are primarily two barcode formats used, UPC and EAN. The UPC format (as shown below) is 12 digits while the EAN is 13. These two formats are predominantly used in their own regions, the UPC is used only in the US and Canada, while the EAN is used everywhere else globally.

Why do I need a barcode for Amazon? In 2008 Amazon began requiring UPC, EAN, or ISBN bar codes for all products sold on Amazon.com. Scannable bar codes reduce handling times in shipping centers and lessen errors in order fulfillment and shipping. All items sold on Amazon must have a UPC, EAN, or ISBN bar code number.

Amazon has been on a continuous cleansing binge to eradicate anything toxic from its systems. Amazon pursues all avenues to clear out noxious counterfeiters and leaves no stone unturned. We’ve witnessed the purge of fakery over the last couple of years that included seemingly benign Amazon UPC Barcodes.

1 - Making up your own barcode

As any seller knows, Amazon is crammed full with not just millions of different products but, millions of different variations of different products.  Like in any other kind of store, each product sold on Amazon has its own unique product code (UPC) to help sellers and buyers quickly identify and catalogue each product.

What do you need to use between FNSKU vs UPC barcodes when selling on Amazon? Or do you need both? Barcodes can get quite confusing. Let’s get these different types of barcodes explained. New to selling on Amazon and can't get your head around what's the deal with the barcodes?

Let’s break down the process of buying your UPC code into 4 easy steps. Step 1: Are you Brand Registered with Amazon? If Yes, then you must rent directly from GS1.