Let's get over the basics

What is a UPC?

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A UPC (Universal Product Code) is a barcode that is used to uniquely identify products. It is a 12-digit number that is assigned to each product, and it is used by retailers to track inventory and sales.

What is a GTIN?

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A GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a term that refers to a family of product identifiers, including UPCs, EANs (European Article Numbers), and other barcode formats. GTINs are used to uniquely identify products in the global supply chain.

What is an FNSKU?

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An FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit) is a unique identifier that Amazon assigns to products that are sold through their fulfillment network. It is a unique identifier that is used to track inventory and sales, and it is printed on the product label.

Where do you get a UPC?

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UPC codes are typically purchased from GS1, the organization that manages the UPC system.

NOTE: If you do buy UPC barcodes please buy from GS1 official website. Don't save money on cheap UPC codes. It is against Amazon's Policy.

"We verify the authenticity of product UPCs by checking the GS1 database. UPCs that do not match the information provided by GS1 will be considered invalid. Obtain your UPCs directly from GS1 (and not from other third parties selling UPC licenses) to ensure the appropriate information is reflected in the GS1 database."

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How much does GS1 barcodes cost?

$250 for 1-10 barcodes with a $50 annual renewal fee. They also offer single UPC for $30 each. Official website here

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Can you sell on Amazon without a UPC?

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Yes, it is possible to sell on Amazon without a UPC. Amazon offers a barcode exemption program a.k.a GTIN Exemption

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SO...How to List Products without GS1 UPC Barcodes on Amazon?

* Before you apply for GTIN EXEMPTION , it's important to note that exemptions are not available for brands that already have a GS1-approved barcode on their products. This means that even with a GTIN exemption for a certain category, you may not be able to list certain branded items without a product ID. However, there are some scenarios in which you can apply for a GTIN exemption, such as selling private-label or handmade products, selling product parts that don't have a GTIN, or selling bundled packs of multiple products.

BEFORE STEP ONE. It is recommended to enroll in the Amazon Brand Registry for your brand before applying for a GTIN exemption, particularly if you have chosen not to purchase a GS1 barcode.

Step One:

You can apply for GTIN exemption here.

Step Two:

Choose your category, for more categories please click "Add more categories"

Step Three:

Add Brand / Publisher.

Step Four:

Check for eligibility

If successful you will receive this image:

You can then list the product with your brand manually via Add a Product or via bulk upload template file

If Unsuccessful you will receive this image:

That means your brand is not eligible for GTIN exemption.

Congratulations! You can learned how to apply for GTIN Exemption without paying for GS1 barcode.

NOTE: If you do buy UPC barcodes please buy from GS1 official website. Don't save money on cheap UPC codes. It is against Amazon's Policy.

"We verify the authenticity of product UPCs by checking the GS1 database. UPCs that do not match the information provided by GS1 will be considered invalid. Obtain your UPCs directly from GS1 (and not from other third parties selling UPC licenses) to ensure the appropriate information is reflected in the GS1 database."

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