Amazon Barcodes: Detailed Explanation

Table of Content
1. Introduction
- Overview of Amazon Barcodes
- Importance of Barcodes in Selling on Amazon

2. Types of Amazon Barcodes
- UPC (Universal Product Code)
- Description and Use
- Geographic Usage
- ISBN (International Standard Book Number)
- Description and Use
- Digit Formats
- EAN (European Article Number)
- Description and Use
- Geographic Usage
- ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number)
- Description and Assignment Process
- FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit)
- Description and Purpose
- GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)
- Description and Inclusion

3. How to Obtain Barcodes for Amazon
- Purchasing UPCs/EANs from GS1
- Process and Benefits
- Using Existing Barcodes
- Conditions for Use
- Requesting an Exemption for GTIN
- Eligibility and Process

4. Using Barcodes on Amazon
- Listing Products with Barcodes
- Requirements and Procedure
- FBA Requirements for Barcodes
- FNSKU Labeling Service
- Labeling Products
- Guidelines for Barcode Printing and Affixing

5. Importance of Barcodes
- Inventory Tracking
- Avoiding Counterfeits
- Efficient Processing and Shipping

6. Compliance
- Adhering to Amazon’s Barcode Policies
- Consequences of Non-compliance

7. Conclusion
- Summary of Key Points
- Final Thoughts on the Role of Barcodes in Amazon Selling

Amazon barcodes are an essential aspect of managing and selling products on the Amazon platform. They play a crucial role in inventory management, tracking, and ensuring the authenticity and proper listing of products.

Here's a detailed guide on Amazon barcodes:

Types of Amazon Barcodes

1. UPC (Universal Product Code):

• Most common type of barcode used in the retail industry.
• Consists of 12 numeric digits that are uniquely assigned to each trade item.
• Used globally, primarily in the United States and Canada.
• Required for listing a new product on Amazon unless it's a book (which uses an ISBN).

2. ISBN (International Standard Book Number):

• A unique identifier for books, used worldwide.
• A 10 or 13-digit number that identifies a specific book, an edition of a book, or a book-like product (like an audiobook).

3. EAN (European Article Number):

• Similar to UPC but used internationally.
• Consists of 13 numeric digits.
• Used mainly in Europe but accepted globally.

4. ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number):

• Unique blocks of 10 letters and/or numbers that identify items on Amazon.
• Amazon assigns the ASIN to products when they are created in its catalog.

5. FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit):

• An Amazon-specific identifier used for inventory management.
• Assigned to products that are being fulfilled by Amazon (FBA - Fulfillment by Amazon).
• Unique for each product and seller combination.

6. GTIN (Global Trade Item Number):

• An umbrella term that includes UPC, EAN, and ISBN.
• Used for identifying products in the global marketplace.
  

How to Obtain Barcodes for Amazon

1. Purchasing UPCs/EANs:

• Buy from GS1 (Global Standard 1) to ensure authenticity.
• Each barcode is unique and ensures your product's authenticity on Amazon.

2. Using Existing Barcodes:

• If selling a product that already has a UPC/EAN, you can use the existing code.

3. Requesting an Exemption:

• For products that don't have a UPC/EAN, you can request a GTIN exemption from Amazon.
• Requires a valid reason, such as handcrafted items.
  

Using Barcodes on Amazon

1. Listing Products:

• When listing a product on Amazon, enter the product’s UPC, EAN, ISBN, or ASIN.
• This ensures the product is correctly cataloged.

2. FBA Requirements:

• For FBA, products need a scannable barcode, which can be a UPC or FNSKU.
• Amazon provides a service to label products with an FNSKU for a fee.

3. Labeling Products:

• Barcodes must be printed and affixed to the product packaging.
• Must be easily scannable and meet Amazon’s size and quality requirements.
  

Importance of Barcodes

• Inventory Tracking: Helps Amazon track and manage inventory in its warehouses.
• Avoiding Counterfeits: Unique identifiers help in combating counterfeit products.
• Efficient Processing: Ensures efficient processing, handling, and shipping of products.
  

Compliance

• Ensure that the barcodes used comply with Amazon’s policies.
• Non-compliance can lead to listing removal or account suspension.
  

Conclusion

Understanding and properly utilizing Amazon barcodes are vital for selling products on the platform. It ensures efficient inventory management, proper listing, and compliance with Amazon's policies.

Always ensure that your barcodes are obtained through legitimate sources and are accurately applied to your products.