What Are Amazon's Requirements for a GS1 Barcode?

This case study outlines the essential requirements for using GS1 barcodes when selling on Amazon in the UK. It explains why Amazon mandates GS1-issued Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) for accurate product identification, inventory management, and authenticity verification, emphasising the importance of obtaining barcodes directly from GS1 to avoid listing errors and build customer trust. It guides sellers through the process of registering with GS1, obtaining a company prefix, and assigning GTINs, while also highlighting the pitfalls of using third-party barcodes and the necessity of GS1 certification for compliance and successful selling on Amazon.

What Are Amazon's Requirements for a GS1 Barcode?

When selling on Amazon, having the correct product identifiers is critical to ensure accurate listings, inventory management, and smooth fulfilment processes. One of the key identifiers required by Amazon is a GS1 barcode, which plays a vital role in maintaining product integrity across its marketplace.

What is a GS1 Barcode?

GS1, a global not-for-profit organisation, develops and manages standards for business communication and product identification. Their most well-known standard is the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), a unique code used for identifying products worldwide. GTINs are commonly found as barcodes on products and are used for product tracking, data management, and verifying authenticity.

Why Does Amazon Require GS1 Barcodes?

Amazon requires that every product listed on its platform has a unique product identifier, such as a GTIN. The GTIN ensures accurate product identification, which is essential for managing listings, organising inventory, and streamlining fulfilment. By mandating GS1-issued GTINs, Amazon aims to maintain consistency and authenticity, avoiding issues like duplicate listings, incorrect product details, or mismatched items.

For a GTIN to be valid on Amazon, it must be issued directly from GS1. Amazon cross-checks the GTIN against the GS1 database to verify its legitimacy. If a GTIN does not match the brand owner or is not recognised by GS1, the seller may encounter errors in listing their products.

How to Obtain a GS1 Barcode for Amazon

To list products on Amazon, sellers must purchase their barcodes directly from GS1. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Register with GS1: Visit the GS1 UK website or your respective national GS1 organisation.

2. Obtain a GS1 Company Prefix: This unique identifier allows you to generate barcodes for all your products under your brand.

3. Assign GTINs to Your Products: Once you have a GS1 Company Prefix, you can assign GTINs to each product, ensuring that every item has a distinct identifier.

4. List on Amazon: Use the GTIN to list your product on Amazon, ensuring compliance and authenticity.

Benefits of Using GS1 Barcodes on Amazon

• Enhanced Trust: A GS1 certificate provides proof of authenticity and establishes that a seller is using legitimate, globally recognised product identifiers.

• Streamlined Inventory Management: Accurate GTINs help Amazon keep track of stock, reduce errors, and streamline the fulfilment process.

• Preventing Listing Issues: Using GS1 barcodes prevents issues such as listing errors, mismatched products, or delisting, which can occur when using incorrect or non-compliant identifiers.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Avoid Third-Party Barcodes: Barcodes purchased from non-GS1 sources might not be valid on Amazon, as they are not tied to the brand or product.

• Check for GS1 Certification: Ensure that your GTINs are correctly linked to your brand name. Amazon will cross-reference this information against the GS1 database.

By using GS1 barcodes, sellers can ensure that their products are compliant, properly identified, and well-positioned for success on Amazon’s global marketplace.

If you’re new to Amazon or are looking to validate your existing product barcodes, visit the GS1 UK website for more information on getting started.