How to Buy UPC Codes for Amazon: A Complete Guide with Tips

If you’re planning to sell products on Amazon, buying UPCs is a critical first step. Universal Product Codes (UPCs) help identify and track products, ensuring smooth transactions and inventory management.  

But here’s the catch—Amazon doesn’t provide UPCs for sellers. You’ll need to buy UPC codes for Amazon on your own.

This guide covers everything you need to know, from where to buy UPC codes for Amazon to understanding barcodes and even how to list a product without one. Let’s dive in and make sure you get it right!

TL;DR

Where can you buy UPC Codes for Amazon Sellers:

• GS1 (recommended by Amazon) 
• Nationwide Barcode
• Speedy Barcodes
• SnapUPC
• Buyabarcode.com
• Bar Codes Talk
• Get Barcodes
• Instant UPC Codes
• UPC Code Instant
• Universal Product Codes
• Barcode Mania
• Cheap UPC Barcode
• UPC Bay
• Just Barcodes
• Legal Barcodes
• eBay Sellers 
• Third-party Resellers: Barcode Giant, Barcodestalk, The Label People
• Marketplace Solutions: Helium10 and Zentail 

What is a UPC? 

A Universal Product Code (UPC) is a 12-digit code that uniquely identifies a product. It consists of two parts: the barcode, which can be scanned, and the numbers beneath the barcode, which serve as identifiers. 

UPCs help:

1. Track products
2. Speed up the checkout process, and
3. Improve inventory control

This helps to ensure smooth sales both online and in physical stores.  

Each product on Amazon requires a UPC for listing compliance. Scanning the UPC barcode links the product to your account, automatically updating your inventory and minimizing manual errors.

Why are UPCs crucial for Amazon sellers?

• UPCs streamline the ‘Product ID’ entry, simplifying the creation of new listings.
• They’re universally accepted and serve as the most common identifier in the market.
• UPCs differentiate products, preventing confusion with other sellers’ items.
• They enable inventory tracking and management, minimizing stock-related issues.

Note: For Amazon sellers, it’s important to get their UPCs from a reliable source. Amazon cross-checks UPCs in the GS1 database to verify product authenticity.

Using unregistered UPCs or incorrect codes can lead to account suspension or product relabeling (when Amazon requires new labels to correct listings), costing you time and money. So, before you get started, ensure you’ve secured the correct UPCs that comply with Amazon’s strict guidelines.

Other Important Product Identifiers

Apart from UPCs, other important identifiers serve similar purposes for different marketplaces or product categories:

• GTIN (Global Trade Item Number): A broader identification system for retail products used across the globe. Amazon uses GTINs to standardize and categorize products, simplifying the management of listings across various regions. 
• FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit): An Amazon-specific barcode for FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) sellers that helps in inventory tracking.   
• EAN (European Article Number): A barcode similar to UPCs but used in European markets. Amazon accepts EANs as unique identifiers for products. These are similar to UPCs and help streamline product listings for items marketed in European regions.
• ISBN (International Standard Book Number): This identifier is used exclusively for books, enabling Amazon to organize, categorize, and list book products accurately. ISBNs help customers locate books easily and distinguish different editions or formats.

Is a UPC Essential for Selling on Amazon?

For most product listings on Amazon, sellers need to provide a UPC. These codes act as unique identifiers, linking a product’s manufacturer, item number, and check digit (a final digit calculated from other numbers in the barcode), ensuring the item is legitimate and traceable.

Amazon mandates UPCs to ensure all products are properly categorized and listed. This prevents counterfeiting and simplifies inventory management, building trust and transparency for sellers and buyers.

Categories That Require UPCs

Certain Amazon categories strictly require UPCs for every listed product. These include popular categories like:

1. Health and beauty
2. Electronics
3. Groceries
4. Sports Equipment

and more.

Amazon requires GS1-registered UPCs to ensure consistent product identification across its marketplace. Without GS1-compliant codes, sellers risk listing rejections, product removal, or even account suspension. Thus, unless granted specific exemptions, sellers must comply with this requirement.

UPC Exemptions

While UPCs are generally mandatory, there are exceptions. Sellers offering handmade items, private-label products, or goods that lack a manufacturer’s barcode may apply for a GTIN exemption. This allows you to list your products without needing a UPC or other product identifiers.

However, to qualify for a GTIN exemption, you must provide Amazon with detailed information and supporting documentation. Approval can take time, and meeting Amazon’s strict criteria is essential, but once approved, you can list products UPC-free. 

Amazon Brand Registry for UPC-Free Listings

If you’re a brand owner, Amazon’s Brand Registry provides benefits like listing products without a UPC, especially for custom or private-label items. Through GTIN exemptions, sellers can create a brand catalog without barcodes.

Additionally, enrolling in the Brand Registry with an active trademark grants a GCID (Global Catalog Identifier) as a unique identifier in listings in place of a UPC. This program also protects your brand and enhances product visibility, adding a layer of authenticity.

What are the Costs of Obtaining UPCs for Amazon Listings?

GS1 Barcode Costs and Pricing

GS1, the official provider of UPCs, offers several pricing options depending on how many codes you need. For small sellers, GS1 provides 1-10 barcodes for $250, with a $50 annual renewal fee. This option is ideal for sellers with a limited product range.

1. Cheaper with Volume

As the number of barcodes increases, the cost per barcode decreases. For instance, purchasing 100 barcodes costs $750, and the annual renewal fee is $150. This makes it more affordable for larger businesses with many products.

2. Single UPC Option

For sellers with just one or two products, GS1 now offers a single UPC barcode for $30 without any renewal fees. This is an affordable option for small businesses looking to start with minimal investment.

GTIN Exemption As a Short-Term Solution

If you have products without barcodes and need a quick solution to list them on Amazon, applying for a GTIN exemption is an effective short-term option. This exemption allows you to sell items without a UPC, such as private-label products or handmade goods.  

1. Temporary Fix

When selling a product that’s not your brand, never add your own UPC or apply for a GTIN exemption. Instead, always use the barcode provided by the manufacturer. This is crucial for ensuring your product aligns with the brand’s existing product identifiers.

The only exception is if the manufacturer doesn’t supply a barcode. In that case, you can request a GTIN exemption.  

2. Long-Term Strategy

If you’re serious about building a long-term brand, selling in physical stores, or expanding into other marketplaces, you’ll eventually need to invest in GS1-registered barcodes. These barcodes ensure universal identification and compliance with Amazon’s requirements, allowing smoother expansion.

In summary, as your business grows, transitioning to GS1 barcodes will help avoid potential limitations in the future. 

Where to Buy Cheap UPCs for Amazon?

If you’re looking to buy cheap UPCs for Amazon, be cautious of the risks associated with purchasing from unauthorized resellers.

While cost-effective options are available, they may come with serious drawbacks, especially when it comes to complying with Amazon’s policies that strictly enforce UPC validation through the GS1 database. 

The Risks of Buying Cheap UPCs

If you decide to buy UPC codes for Amazon from unverified sellers, especially those on eBay or other third-party websites, you must do that at your own risk as that can cause several issues:

• Duplicated Codes: Some UPCs have been recycled, which means multiple sellers might be using the same code. If Amazon detects a mismatch between the product and its associated UPC, it could remove your listing.
• Unregistered Codes: Some sellers offer UPCs that aren’t listed in the GS1 database, risking verification issues on Amazon. If your UPC isn’t found in the database, Amazon may consider it invalid and flag or suppress (hidden from search results and browsing) your listing.

Affordable Alternatives for Cheap UPCs 

For budget options, here are alternate sources for UPCs at lower prices, but exercise caution:

1. eBay UPC Sellers

Many sellers on eBay offer bulk UPCs at low prices. While this may seem attractive, be cautious about their legitimacy for Amazon listings. Always verify the source and ensure they comply with Amazon’s requirements.

2. Third-party Websites

• Nationwide Barcode: Offers UPCs that are previously issued but still unique.

Pricing: The price varies depending on the required UPC quantity. For example, it is $12 for 1 UPC and $20 for 5 UPCs. 

• Speedy Barcodes: Offers bulk discounts.

Pricing: The price varies depending on the required UPC quantity. For example, it is $5 for 1 UPC and $10 for 5 UPCs.

• UPCs (Formerly Snap UPC): Provides affordable UPCs for small sellers, offering single and bulk options

Pricing: The price varies depending on the required UPC quantity. For example, it is $10 for 1 UPC and $20 for 5 UPCs.

While these sources offer attractive prices, they don’t provide the same security as GS1-registered codes. Therefore, use them with caution and understand the risks involved.

How to Verify a UPC

To ensure that the UPC you purchase is valid and registered, follow this simple verification process:

Step 1: Visit the official website of GS1 US (or the GS1 database in your region).

Step 2: Navigate to their “Check Digit Calculator tool“, which verifies a barcode’s last digit, calculated from other digits in the barcode to ensure accuracy.

Step 3: Enter the UPCs you intend to verify.

The system will tell you whether the code is registered and which company it is assigned to. This process is essential to avoid purchasing invalid or reused UPCs that could result in Amazon penalties.

Pros and Cons of Buying Cheap UPCs

When considering whether to purchase cheap UPCs or invest in GS1 barcodes, weigh the pros and cons to make an informed choice: 

Pros of Cheap UPCs:

• Low Cost: Budget-friendly for new sellers.
• Bulk Discounts: Available for sellers needing multiple codes.

Cons of Cheap UPCs:

• Risk of Duplication: Can be reused by others, risking Amazon listing issues
• Non-GS1 Registered: Not listed in the GS1 database, risking account suspension
• Risk of Account Suspension: If detected, Amazon may suspend your selling privileges

If you choose cheap UPCs, do so with caution, as they may lead to listing issues or suspension. While GS1 barcodes are more expensive, they offer security, compliance, and global recognition, making them the better option for long-term growth on Amazon. 

How to Buy UPCs for Amazon GS1: The Official Method

Buying UPCs through GS1 ensures unique, Amazon-compliant identifiers for your products.

Here’s how to get GS1 UPCs and why they matter:

What is GS1?

Global Standards One, or GS1, is a non-profit organization that develops and maintains global standards for barcodes. The GS1 system of barcodes, which includes Universal Product Codes, or UPCs, ensures the uniqueness and authenticity of product identification numbers worldwide. 

Most major retailers, including Amazon, require that sellers use GS1-issued UPCs to ensure accurate product tracking and legitimacy.

Steps to Purchase from GS1

Step 1: GS1 Membership

To buy UPC codes for Amazon from GS1, first register for membership through their website.

Here’s how: 

1. Go to the GS1 US Website: Visit the official GS1 US website,  where you’ll find sections specifically for buying UPC barcodes.
2. Determine the Number of Barcodes You Need: Decide on the volume of barcodes based on your product range. GS1 offers from a single GTIN to tens of thousands, depending on your needs. 
3. Complete the Registration Form: Enter your business details, such as company name, address, and contact information. These details link your GS1 barcodes to your business, making it easy for marketplaces to verify your products.
4. Pay the Membership Fee: GS1 membership involves an initial fee based on the number of UPCs you require. This is typically an upfront cost with potential renewal fees annually. 

Step 2: Getting a Company Prefix

After joining GS1, secure your Company Prefix, a unique identifier for your business.

• Choose a Package: Select based on the quantity of barcodes you need.
• Understand Prefix Length: Shorter prefixes are for businesses needing more codes, as they allow for a larger number of unique barcodes.

For example, if your prefix is 123456, all UPCs for your products start with these digits, ensuring they’re linked to your brand. 

Step 3: Purchasing Codes

GS1 requires an initial fee for the Company Prefix and an annual renewal fee. It offers different pricing tiers based on the number of UPCs required.

For example, a single GS1 US GTIN costs $30 with no renewal fee, while a prefix for 10 items costs $250 initially with a $50 renewal. Larger prefixes, like 100 items, start at $750 with a $150 renewal fee, scaling up to $10,500 for prefixes covering 100,000 items, with a $2,100 renewal.

Note: Pricing is structured to accommodate businesses of all sizes. Whether you need a single barcode or thousands, GS1 offers packages to match your business growth.

Once you’ve completed the registration and paid the fees, GS1 will provide you with a Company Prefix. You can then generate UPCs for your products using the GS1 system.

Step 4: Managing Your GS1 UPCs

Verified by GS1 is a service that allows businesses to validate and confirm the authenticity of barcodes and product information across platforms like Amazon.

Search Functions:

1. Verify Product: Enables GTIN-based product verification to confirm that a barcode matches a legitimate product.
2. Verify Party/Location: Allows users to check Global Location Numbers (GLN) to validate entities or locations.
3. Verify Other Keys: Verifies additional GS1 identifiers (like SSCC or GRAI) and confirms ownership.
4. Find Company: Searches for a GS1 member by company name, useful for verifying the legitimacy of a trading partner.

Benefits: Verified by GS1 enhances trust by providing accessible, verified data that companies can use to validate product identity, location, and company ownership.

This data, provided directly by the brand owner, is accessible globally and can be uploaded through local GS1 member organizations.

Next Steps after Buying UPCs for Amazon 

After you buy UPC codes for Amazon, there are several steps to ensure a smooth listing process for those products on Amazon.   

Step 1: Create a New Product Listing

• Log in to Amazon Seller Central and select “Add a Product.”

• Choose “I’m adding a product not sold on Amazon” to begin your listing. This option initiates the product listing process for new items not previously listed on Amazon.
• You’ll then be prompted to select your product category and enter key product details such as title, description, and price. 

• In the Product ID field, enter the UPC you purchased. This code will act as the product’s unique identifier.

Step 2: Wait for UPC Activation

Ensure your UPC is active in the GS1 database before listing the product. This can take 24-48 hours. Trying to list too soon may result in an invalid code error. 

Step 3: Match Brand Name

Make sure the brand name on your Amazon listing is the same as the name registered in the GS1 database. Any discrepancies could lead to issues with the validation process or delays in getting your product live on Amazon. 

To sum it up, once your UPC is validated, complete the listing, and your product will be visible to Amazon shoppers.   

Do You Need to Print UPC Barcodes on Your Product Packaging?

Amazon’s policies regarding UPC barcodes vary depending on whether you’re using Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) or handling fulfillment yourself. Understanding these policies ensures compliance and smooth operations.

Amazon’s Packaging Requirements

For sellers using FBA, Amazon does not require the UPC barcode to be printed directly on your product packaging. Instead, each product needs to be labeled with a Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit, or FNSKU, which Amazon uses to link products to specific seller accounts. 

This FNSKU is mandatory for FBA shipments to Amazon’s fulfillment centers, and it must be visible on each item.

Printing on Product Packaging

If you’re selling products through Fulfilled by Merchant, you need not print your UPC barcode on the product packaging.

Alternatives to Printing UPC Barcodes

1. Amazon Label Service

If you prefer not to handle barcode printing, Amazon offers a convenient Label Service. For $0.55 per unit, Amazon will apply an FNSKU label on each of your products, ensuring compliance with their fulfillment process.

This option is ideal for sellers who want to avoid the hassle and costs of printing barcodes themselves.

2. Sticker Labels

Sticker labels are adhesive-backed labels used to apply barcodes to products without printing on the packaging. They offer flexibility and can be used on a wide range of surfaces.

This method is particularly useful for smaller product runs, custom packaging, or products where direct printing may not be cost-effective. You can purchase adhesive labels in bulk and manually or automatically apply them to your products.

When using sticker labels, ensure that the barcode is placed in a visible location and printed clearly. The cost of sticker labels is generally low, but keep in mind the labor involved in applying them.

Pro tip: For best results, place barcodes visibly. In retail, the bottom or side of the packaging works well. For FBA shipments, ensure the FNSKU label is clear and away from edges to avoid damage.

How to List a Product on Amazon Without a UPC

As we discussed earlier, a GTIN exemption lets sellers list products on Amazon without needing a UPC, EAN, or other GTIN. This option suits items like handmade goods, private-label products, or bundles. It’s particularly useful if you manufacture your products or sell items that lack traditional UPCs.

Once Amazon approves a GTIN exemption for your brand, you can list additional products under the same brand without reapplying each time.

For instance, if your brand “ABC Beauty” is approved for exemption in the cosmetics category, you can list multiple cosmetics without separate applications, saving time and simplifying the listing process.

Note: GTIN exemptions are typically allowed for: – Specific items like automotive parts or mobile accessories without manufacturer-assigned UPCs – Private label or handmade items – Product bundles, like gift sets – Unbranded products (listed as “Generic”)

GTIN Exemption Process

Here’s a breakdown of the steps:

Step 1: Access the GTIN Exemption Application

Once logged into Amazon Seller Central, search for “Apply for the Global Trade Item Number or GTIN Exemption” to access the exemption page directly.

Step 2: Select a Product Category

After accessing the exemption application page, select your product category. You can apply for exemptions across multiple categories by clicking “+ Add more categories”.

Step 3: Enter the Brand or Publisher Information

Input your brand name if it’s a private label.

You can use the name “Generic” for unbranded items or bundles. When you enter “Generic,” some items may receive instant automatic approval for GTIN exemption or require additional proof. 

Step 4: Check Eligibility

Click on the “Check for Eligibility” button and an eligibility summary appears. If your product qualifies and doesn’t require additional verification, you’ll be approved instantly with a green check mark, allowing you to proceed with the exemption. You will be unable to proceed if your product is ineligible for a GTIN exemption.

Step 5: Submit Proof

If your product requires further verification, you will need to upload real images of your product and packaging (on a table or held in hand) without a barcode. This documentation helps Amazon confirm your exemption eligibility.  

Step 6: Receive Approval

After submitting your request, Amazon typically takes 48 hours to review your application, although approval can come sooner. You can track your application status in the ‘Case Log’ section of Seller Central. You’ll receive an email once the exemption is granted.

Important Things to Consider When Applying for a GTIN Exemption

If you applied under the wrong brand or category, you can re-apply for GTIN exemption. Here’s what to remember:

• After applying, check the status in your Case Log.
• For a GTIN exemption to work, enter the exact category and brand from your exemption notice.
• If necessary, re-apply for other brands or categories as needed.
• Amazon permits up to ten brand-category combinations in one exemption application.

Documentation Required For GTIN Exemption

To get a GTIN exemption, Amazon may request the following documents:

• Packaging Proof: Ensure the brand name, if any, is visible on the packaging or product. 
• Proof of Brand Ownership: If you’re selling private label products or a letter from the manufacturer in case you’re reselling products without a GTIN. 

How to List Your Product after GTIN Exemption Approval 

Once approved for the exemption, it’s time to list your product. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Wait for Confirmation

Amazon recommends waiting 24 hours after approval before adding your product to ensure the system updates.

Step 2: Create Your Product Listing

• In Seller Central, go to Catalog > Add Products.
• Choose “I’m adding a product not sold on Amazon,” then select the product category for which your GTIN exemption was approved. Be sure to match the exact category and brand name from your exemption.

Step 3: Fill in Product Details

On the Product Identity page, enter your product’s name, manufacturer, and brand exactly as on your exemption. Include details for variations if applicable.

For example, if you’ve been approved for a brand like ABC Beauty, enter the information exactly as you submitted it during your GTIN application. 

Step 4: Skip the Product ID Field

Since your exemption is approved, you won’t need to enter a UPC. You will find that the product ID field which is usually marked with an asterisk, will not require a UPC for GTIN-exempt products. 

Step 5: Choose Fulfillment Method

Under the Offer tab, select whether you’ll Fulfill by Merchant (FBM) or Fulfill by Amazon (FBA). If you’re using FBA, you’ll have to generate Amazon’s barcode (FNSKU). 

Step 6. Apply the Amazon Barcode (FNSKU)

• Even though you don’t need a UPC, Amazon still requires an FNSKU barcode for tracking inventory. You can either print the labels yourself or have Amazon label the products for you at a fee.
• You can find your FNSKU in the Manage Inventory section by selecting “Print item labels” from the drop-down menu next to your product.

Step 7: Monitor Your Listing

Once your listing is live, it will appear in the Manage Inventory section. You can edit details as needed, but always ensure that your brand and category match your approved GTIN exemption. 

You might also like to read: GTIN vs UPC: What’s the Difference between these Codes?

Best Practices for UPC Management on Amazon 

To ensure smooth product listings and avoid errors, follow these best practices for UPC Management on Amazon:

1. Tracking and Auditing UPCs

Use specialized inventory management software like sellercloud, Zoho Inventory, or lightspeed to keep your UPCs organized and prevent duplicates. These platforms track each UPC’s associated product, minimizing listing errors.

Perform routine audits of your product listings to confirm that all UPCs and GTINs are registered correctly and comply with Amazon’s policies. Use platforms like Helium 10 or Jungle Scout to monitor your listings, ensuring every product has a valid and registered UPC.

2. Avoid UPC Duplicates

Always double-check your UPCs before listing new products to prevent errors. Use tools like GS1’s Data Hub or UPCitemDB to verify UPCs and avoid reusing codes across different products.

Duplicating UPCs across multiple listings can lead to serious consequences such as listing errors, account suspensions, or customer confusion. Always assign a unique code to each product, especially when creating new listings.

Conclusion

Obtaining GS1-registered UPCs is essential for maintaining listing integrity and avoiding account suspension. Both GS1 and GTIN exemptions help sellers ensure compliance while meeting business needs. Lastly, auditing your UPCs periodically is key to keeping your account safe.  

FAQs

1. Where to Buy UPC Codes for Amazon?

You have several options to buy UPC codes for Amazon. Amazon recommends buying directly from GS1, the official authority for authentic product identification codes. While GS1 codes are preferred, you may also find cheaper UPC codes from third-party sellers online.

However, be cautious, as these cheaper codes may not be registered to your brand. Amazon cross-checks UPCs with the GS1 database, and codes that don’t match may lead to listing issues or even account suspension.

2. What is the difference between ASIN and UPC?

Amazon Standard Identification Numbers (ASINs) are unique to Amazon for identifying products on their platform. In contrast, Universal Product Codes (UPCs) are internationally recognized identifiers used in retail and online marketplaces.

3. Do UPCs expire?

Once you buy UPC codes for Amazon, it remains valid indefinitely as long as it’s properly registered with GS1. Failure to use a registered UPC can lead to issues on Amazon. 

4. Can I use the same UPC for multiple listings?

No, Amazon requires that each product has its own unique UPC. Using the same UPC for different listings is against Amazon’s policies and could lead to account suspension or product removal.

5. What if I change my product’s packaging?

As long as the product hasn’t changed, you can continue using the same UPC even if you update its packaging. However, if the product has undergone significant changes, such as new features or materials, you’ll need a new UPC.

6. Do I need separate UPCs for different variations (sizes, colors)?

Yes, each variation of a product, such as different sizes, colors, or styles, requires its own UPC. This ensures accurate inventory tracking and customer satisfaction, as each variation will be easily identifiable.

7. What Happens If I List a Product with a UPC Not in the GS1 Database?

Amazon verifies UPCs against the GS1 database. If a UPC doesn’t match GS1 records, Amazon may consider it invalid, leading to listing removal or potential account suspension.

8. How to Buy UPC Codes from GS1?

To purchase UPC codes from GS1, you’ll need to visit their official website. There, you can apply for a Company Prefix or individual GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers), depending on the number of products you need to register.

This process involves paying an initial fee and an annual renewal fee based on your chosen prefix or GTIN quantity. After setting up an account, you’ll be assigned a unique Company Prefix, which forms the basis for your product codes, ensuring each is unique and compliant with Amazon’s standards.

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