How to sell products on Amazon without a barcode?

Do you want to sell products on Amazon that do not have an identifier, such as an EAN (European Article Number), UPC (Universal Product Code), or GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)? Every time you want to create a new listing, the portal requires these to be provided. They are the standard worldwide. Most products available in circulation have been assigned a number that distinguishes them from other goods. What should you do if you do not have identifiers but want to create a listing on Amazon? Is it possible to be exempted from the requirement to use an EAN? Check how to apply for permission to sell without a barcode.

What is GTIN?

GTIN is a standardized numerical code that can be verified to identify which specific product is marked by it. It is the identification number assigned to a given item. Remember that each color variant and model must have a separate code. If you are selling shirts in different colors and sizes, you must assign an EAN to each color variant in each size separately. This will help you identify products in your inventory, organize shipments more efficiently, and legitimize your offer. Some items listed for sale do not have a code. These include, among others:

Works of art

Gift sets containing several products with different EANs

Handcrafted items.

What should you do to create listings for such offers? Read our guide and obtain a waiver from the requirement to use GTIN.

How to apply for an exemption?

The first step you need to take is to check carefully whether the product is already being sold on Amazon. If the answer is yes, you must connect your offer to the existing listing. However, if you cannot find it on this e-commerce portal, you can apply for a waiver from the requirement to use a barcode. In Amazon Seller Central, go to the page, select the product category, and provide the brand/publisher name.

Fig. 1 Exemption from the obligation to provide GTIN on the Amazon portal

After clicking the "Select" button, a drop-down list with main categories will appear. Choose the appropriate one and enter the brand name under which you want to sell this specific item in the free space. Once you have filled in these fields, the option "Check for Eligibility" will appear, directing you to the next page. There you will find out if, in this specific case, you can apply for an exemption from providing the code. You will be asked to provide the full name and add at least 2 product photos. Now you need to regularly check the messages in the Help window (Help - Case log). Answers to your questions sent to Amazon appear there continuously.

What requirements must a product meet to obtain an exemption from the obligation to provide GTIN?

Before starting the process of obtaining an exemption, check the offers on Amazon in your category to ensure that you will be the first seller with the specified product. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the list of brands for which providing a code is mandatory. You can find it here, for example. Prepare at least 2 photos showing the product and packaging with the brand you specified held in hand or lying on a table. These must be real, amateur photographs taken, for instance, with a phone. After submitting this evidence, your application will be reviewed, and you will soon be notified of the outcome. If your request is positively considered, you can add an Amazon offer without a barcode after the time stated in the message (usually 24 hours). Support may also ask you to submit further attachments.

How to obtain an identification code for a product offered on Amazon?

If you want to bypass the procedure for obtaining a GTIN exemption, you can purchase codes for your products and immediately list them on the Amazon platform. Many websites offer the service of generating such identifiers. You just need to register to order EANs for your products and manage them. Some companies also allow you to download labels. To register with the portal that issues official barcode codes, you must provide the REGON number, contact details, and other necessary information. You also need to specify the number of products distinguishing their variants and initiate a transfer to the company offering GTINs. Registration usually takes a few days. If you are wondering which is more profitable: buying codes or applying to Amazon for an exemption, call or write to us. We are happy to help you start effective selling on Amazon.

Happy Selling

Amata Borys-Chudek

Go2Market Crew