UPC, FNSKU, EAN, SHIPPING, GTIN - all of these are barcodes that are being used during interaction with Amazon.
We will help to learn more about this matter and answer questions such as: what is a barcode, where to buy it, how to download it, where to stick it? Today we will be covering UPC and EAN barcodes.
EAN barcode (European Article Number) – European barcode standard designed for commodity tracking.
At what stage do you require UPC/EAN barcode?
UPC/EAN barcode is required to create a listing on Amazon marketplace.
After the input Amazon will generate FNSKU barcode based on the UPC/EAN barcode.FNSKU barcode is used by Amazon for internal tracking purposes.
If you are selling in USA or Canada – UPC barcode;
If you are selling in Europe – EAN barcode.
How many UPC/EAN barcodes should be bought?
Each product, color, size or any other type of variation need a separate barcode.
Where to buy UPC/EAN barcodes?
1. GS1.ORG
Amazon guidelines recognize UPC and EAN barcodes issued by this organization.Price for 10 barcodes = $25 + $50 (annual subscription)
Price for 1 barcode = 30$
2. eBay / SpeedyBarrcodes
Selling used barcodes and Amazon guidelines are not recognizing them. Listings that use such barcodes may be deactivated at any moment.
Price for 10 barcodes = $10-15
3. GTIN exemption
GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) allows to avoid UPC/EAN purchase.
This barcode standard will fit your business if you are selling products under original brand. But first you need to be approved by Amazon to sell under your own brand/trademark.
Free barcodes