Read time: 3 mins | Published on: Aug 11, 2025
If you’re listing a product on Amazon that hasn’t been sold on the marketplace platform before, you’ll need a product ID — like a UPC, EAN, or ISBN — to create the listing. However, if the product is already listed by another seller, you don’t need to generate a new one.
This distinction often confuses new sellers, especially when launching their first product. Once you understand when an Amazon product ID is required and how to get one, it can save you time and prevent listing errors.
This distinction often confuses new sellers, especially when launching their first product. Once you understand when an Amazon product ID is required and how to get one, it can save you time and prevent listing errors.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Product already listed on Amazon?
You can match the existing ASIN — no product ID needed. - New to Amazon?
You’ll need a valid product ID to create a new listing from scratch. - Where to get one?
Buy from GS1 India or apply for a GTIN exemption through Seller Central (if eligible).
In this guide, we’ll cover the types of Amazon product IDs, when you need one, and how Indian sellers can apply correctly.
Overview of the Types of Amazon Product IDs
Amazon uses standardized product identifiers that align with international barcode systems. Here are the key types:
Did You Know?
In India, GS1 India is the only authorized body for issuing UPCs and EANs that Amazon accepts. Barcodes bought from resellers or third-party websites often lead to listing rejection.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a UPC or EAN for Your Products
If you're listing a new product on Amazon that isn’t already in the catalogue, you’ll need a valid UPC or EAN to create the listing. These codes serve as Amazon product IDs and must be issued by an authorised source like GS1 to be accepted.
Step 1: Register with GS1 India
- Visit https://www.gs1india.org
- Choose a licensing package based on the number of barcodes you need
- Fill out the business information and submit documents like PAN, GSTIN, and identity proof
Step 2: Receive Your GS1 Prefix and Barcodes
- Once verified, GS1 will issue a company prefix
- You can then generate your barcodes (UPC or EAN) under this license
Step 3: Assign Barcodes to Your Products
- Match each barcode to a specific product SKU in your catalog
- Keep records for future reference — Amazon may ask for documentation
Step 4: Use Barcodes in Your Amazon Listings
- Go to Seller Central and choose to create a new listing
- Under product ID type, select UPC or EAN
- Enter the 12 or 13-digit code assigned to the product
Once submitted, Amazon will generate an ASIN linked to your UPC or EAN.
Tip
Using authentic GS1 barcodes ensures that your listings don’t get flagged for invalid product IDs, which could delay approvals or trigger account warnings.
Amazon Brand Registry and Product ID Exemptions
If you're enrolled in Amazon Brand Registry, you may be eligible for a GTIN exemption, you won’t need a UPC or EAN for every product, especially for custom-made or private label items.
When Can You Use Brand Registry?
Here are a few conditions under which you can avail a GTIN exemption:
- You manufacture or own the brand
- Your products don’t already have barcodes
- You’re launching new variations under an existing brand
How to Apply for GTIN Exemption:
- Go to Seller Central > Help > GTIN Exemption
- Choose your product category and brand
- Submit sample images and brand authorization if needed
- Once approved, you can list products without a standard barcode
Common Mistakes to Avoid
As a seller, your job doesn't end with getting a barcode — it’s also about how you maintain and use that data. Here are some common issues that can lead to listing errors, suppression, or audit problems:
- Using barcodes not issued by GS1:
Amazon checks barcode ownership against the GS1 database. Barcodes from unofficial third-party vendors may lead to listing rejection. - Creating duplicate ASINs:
Before creating a new product listing, always check if the ASIN already exists. Duplicates create catalogue clutter and are removed by Amazon. - Incorrect barcode-to-product mapping:
Every product variant (size, colour, model) should have a unique barcode. Shared or mismatched barcodes can result in fulfillment and inventory errors . - Lack of recordkeeping:
Keep all documentation — including GS1 registration details and barcode purchase receipts — in case Amazon asks for verification. - Not managing UPC-ASIN relationships properly:
A single UPC can link to more than one ASIN, and some ASINs may have multiple barcodes depending on region or packaging. If not tracked correctly, this can lead to misidentification or product mismatch. - Weak internal systems for product identification:
Product ID mapping needs to be monitored actively. Any failure in your internal systems or integrations (especially if you work with partners) can affect listing accuracy or data sync. - Data access and confidentiality issues:
If your barcode or product ID data is shared with agencies or vendors, make sure access is controlled and secure to avoid misuse or accidental changes.
Did You Know?
Amazon’s systems regularly verify your product ID against the GS1 database. If there's no match, your listing may be suppressed — even if it was initially accepted.
Benefits of Proper Product Identification
Correctly assigning Amazon product IDs isn’t just about compliance — it can help improve your product’s visibility and credibility.
Why It Matters:
- Improved discoverability: Clean and accurate IDs help Amazon index your products better
- Faster listing approval: Avoid unnecessary listing errors and delays
- Brand trust: Products with valid barcodes and ASINs are more trusted by buyers
- Eligibility for ad tools: Sponsored Ads and Brand Analytics often require valid ASIN mapping
Conclusion: Start With the Right Amazon Product ID
If you're serious about selling on Amazon, start by understanding how to get a product ID for Amazon the right way. Whether you’re using a GS1-verified UPC, applying for a GTIN exemption, or leveraging Amazon Brand Registry, your product ID is the first step toward long-term listing success.
Don’t risk account flags or suppressed listings. Use genuine identifiers — and start strong.
Don’t risk account flags or suppressed listings. Use genuine identifiers — and start strong.
Key Takeaways:
- Amazon requires product IDs such as UPC, EAN, or ISBN to create new listings
- GS1 India is the only authorised source for valid UPC/EAN barcodes
- Brand owners may apply for GTIN exemption through Brand Registry
- Avoid third-party barcodes and duplicate ASIN creation
- Correct product ID usage may leads to better visibility, faster listing, and improved buyer trust
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