This episode demystifies GS1 barcodes for e-commerce sellers, especially those on Amazon and Walmart. It clarifies the differences between GTINs, UPCs, and EANs, explains the importance of obtaining barcodes directly from GS1, and covers common issues like company prefixes and annual subscriptions. This is crucial for any seller looking to avoid listing problems and ensure product authenticity across major marketplaces.
Key takeaways
Understand that GTINs are the product identifier numbers (like a license plate), while UPCs (12-digit, US) and EANs (13-digit, Europe/rest of world) are the barcodes that embed these numbers for scanning.
Always obtain your barcodes directly from GS1 or a certified GS1 member organization to avoid issues with marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart, which validate barcode authenticity against the GS1 database.
A company prefix allows multiple brands under one GS1 account, which is beneficial for businesses with diverse product lines or future growth plans.
Be aware of the annual subscription model for GS1 barcodes; failure to pay can lead to deactivation, potentially impacting existing product listings.
Utilize the GS1 Company Database (GEPIR) to verify product information and the Barcode Estimator to determine the number of barcodes needed for your inventory.
What does this episode say about amazon & marketplaces?
Understand that GTINs are the product identifier numbers (like a license plate), while UPCs (12-digit, US) and EANs (13-digit, Europe/rest of world) are the barcodes that embed these numbers for scanning.
What does this episode say about supply chain & operations?
Always obtain your barcodes directly from GS1 or a certified GS1 member organization to avoid issues with marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart, which validate barcode authenticity against the GS1 database.
What does this episode say about product & merchandising?
A company prefix allows multiple brands under one GS1 account, which is beneficial for businesses with diverse product lines or future growth plans.
What does this episode say about analytics & attribution?
Be aware of the annual subscription model for GS1 barcodes; failure to pay can lead to deactivation, potentially impacting existing product listings.
What does this episode say about amazon & marketplaces?
Utilize the GS1 Company Database (GEPIR) to verify product information and the Barcode Estimator to determine the number of barcodes needed for your inventory.
