Imagine carefully selecting your products, uploading them to Amazon with high hopes, only to have them rejected due to a simple UPC code issue. For new sellers, Amazon's various rules and terminology can seem like insurmountable obstacles, with UPC codes being one of the most challenging. This guide will demystify Amazon UPC requirements, helping you list products successfully without the frustration of invalid listings.
Amazon UPC: The Product's Identification
UPC (Universal Product Code) serves as a product's unique identifier—a 12-digit number typically displayed as a barcode on product packaging. This code helps retailers and search engines identify specific products. When searching for items online or in stores, systems scan or enter UPC codes to retrieve corresponding product information.
There are two primary UPC types: UPC-A and UPC-E (which excludes the digit "0"). While widely used in the U.S. and Canada, other countries often prefer EAN codes instead.
Do Amazon Sellers Need UPC Codes?
Yes. Creating new product listings on Amazon requires UPC codes. Amazon uses these codes to verify product information and ensure brand names match those in the GS1 database—the global authority for UPC issuance. In rare cases, sellers may apply for GTIN exemptions to list products without UPC codes.
Must UPC Codes Appear on Product Packaging?
While Amazon mandates UPC codes for products, they don't require physical printing on packaging. However, FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) sellers must use FNSKU barcodes for product identification.
Understanding FNSKU Barcodes
FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit) represents Amazon's unique product identifier. Unlike universal UPC codes, FNSKU helps Amazon distinguish between identical products from different sellers in their fulfillment centers.
How FNSKU Works
Amazon fulfillment centers scan FNSKU codes to identify product origins, ensuring proper seller attribution for sales and quality control. Sellers must apply these codes clearly—either on product packaging or directly on items without packaging (like clothing tags).
Obtaining FNSKU Codes
Amazon automatically generates FNSKU numbers when sellers print shipping labels in Seller Central. Each product variant receives a distinct FNSKU. Sellers may choose to apply labels themselves or pay Amazon to handle labeling.
Where to Purchase Amazon UPC Codes
Always purchase UPC codes through GS1—the official, globally recognized issuing authority. While third-party websites may offer cheaper UPCs, these often lead to listing rejections or account suspensions when codes conflict with existing product assignments.
Purchasing UPC Codes from GS1
Follow these steps to buy UPC codes:
- Visit the GS1 official website
- Click "Get Started"
- Select a UPC package (single codes or bulk purchases)
- Complete company and product information forms
- Make payment to receive your UPC codes
After Purchasing UPC Codes
Allow 24-48 hours for GS1 activation before listing products on Amazon. When creating listings:
- Navigate to Seller Central > Inventory > Add Product
- Select "I'm adding a product not sold on Amazon"
- Choose your product category and enter details, including UPC code
Ensure brand names exactly match GS1 database records to prevent listing issues.
Other Essential Product Codes
GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)
GTIN combines GS1-issued company prefixes with unique product numbers, including verification digits. These identifiers incorporate into various barcode types (UPC, EAN) and require unique codes for each product variant.
EAN (European Article Number)
Commonly used outside North America, EAN codes (EAN-13 and EAN-8) encode GTIN information with company prefixes. While not indicating manufacturing origins, they serve as effective product identifiers.
ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number)
Amazon assigns unique 10-character ASINs to products upon listing creation. When multiple sellers offer identical products, ASINs help track inventory across listings.
UPC Code FAQs
How many UPC codes per product listing?
Only one UPC code per unique product listing, regardless of inventory quantity.
Do identical products share UPC codes?
Yes. Identical products use the same UPC code. Simply adjust available quantities for existing listings rather than creating new ones.
Must UPC codes appear on individual products?
No. One UPC suffices for multiple identical items (e.g., 100 backpacks). However, each product requires its unique FNSKU label when using FBA.
Conclusion
UPC codes remain essential for creating new Amazon product listings, though retail arbitrage sellers may bypass this requirement. Always purchase UPCs through GS1 and maintain consistency between product information and GS1 records to ensure smooth selling operations.