If you want to sell products on Amazon, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is:

“Do I need a barcode for Amazon?”

The answer is usually yes.

Most new products sold on Amazon require a unique product identifier, typically an EAN barcode (or UPC barcode depending on the marketplace). Without one, you may not be able to create a new product listing.

At Get A Barcode, we make it quick and affordable to buy barcode numbers for Amazon sellers. Our barcode numbers are suitable for creating new Amazon product listings, with instant delivery and no annual fees.

If you’re ready to get started, visit our Buy Barcode Numbers page.

What Are Amazon Barcode Requirements?

Amazon uses product identifiers to ensure every product in its catalogue is unique.

When creating a new listing, Amazon will normally ask for one of the following:

EAN barcode
UPC barcode
ISBN (for books)
GTIN

For most UK sellers, an EAN barcode is the standard choice.

The barcode identifies the product itself, rather than the seller, helping Amazon prevent duplicate listings and improve inventory management. Amazon validates product identifiers against recognised standards and, in many cases, checks associated brand information.

When Do You Need a Barcode for Amazon?

You’ll normally need a barcode if you are:

Launching a brand-new product
Selling under your own brand
Creating a completely new Amazon listing
Selling products on Amazon FBA
Selling products on Amazon FBM
Expanding your product range
Selling products outside Amazon as well

Each product variation requires its own unique barcode.

For example:

Product	Barcode Required
Blue T-Shirt Small	Yes
Blue T-Shirt Medium	Yes
Blue T-Shirt Large	Yes
Red T-Shirt Small	Yes

Every variation needs its own barcode number.

Can I Use the Same Barcode on Multiple Products?

No.

Every unique product requires its own unique barcode.

This includes products with different:

Sizes
Colours
Flavours
Quantities
Pack sizes
Versions

Reusing barcode numbers can create listing errors and inventory problems.

What Type of Barcode Does Amazon Accept?

For most UK businesses, you’ll use an EAN-13 barcode.

These are accepted across many online marketplaces and retail systems, making them ideal if you intend to sell through:

Amazon
eBay
Shopify
Etsy
Retail shops
Wholesale distributors

Buying one barcode means you’re ready to expand beyond Amazon.

Amazon FBA Barcode Requirements

If you’re using Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA), there are two different barcode types to understand.

Product Barcode (EAN or UPC)

This identifies your product.

You’ll usually need this when creating a new listing.

Amazon FNSKU Barcode

Once your listing exists, Amazon may also generate an FNSKU label.

The FNSKU identifies your inventory within Amazon’s warehouses, while the EAN or UPC identifies the product itself.

Recent Amazon FBA policy changes mean some sellers can continue using manufacturer barcodes, while others must apply Amazon-issued FNSKU labels depending on factors such as Brand Registry status and fulfilment method. Always check the latest Seller Central guidance for your account type.

These two barcode systems work together—they serve different purposes.

Do Amazon Handmade Sellers Need Barcodes?

Sometimes.

Many handmade sellers qualify for a GTIN exemption, meaning they may be able to list products without purchasing an EAN or UPC barcode.

However, if you later decide to:

sell through retail shops
use other marketplaces
expand your business
sell internationally

having your own barcode numbers makes expansion much easier.

If you think you may eventually sell beyond Amazon Handmade, purchasing your own barcode numbers can be a worthwhile long-term investment.

Can I Sell on Amazon Without a Barcode?

Possibly.

Amazon offers GTIN Exemptions for certain categories and products.

These commonly include:

Handmade products
Private label products in eligible categories
Bundles
Certain branded goods

Approval isn’t automatic and depends on Amazon’s current requirements. If granted, you can create eligible listings without entering a GTIN.

How Many Barcodes Do I Need?

This depends entirely on how many unique products you sell.

One Product

Buy 1 barcode.

Five Products

Buy 5 barcodes.

Twenty Products

Buy 20 barcodes.

One Hundred Products

Buy 100 barcodes.

At Get A Barcode, you can purchase exactly the quantity you need, making it easy to start small and grow.

Can I Use My Barcode on Other Marketplaces?

Yes.

An EAN barcode isn’t exclusive to Amazon.

The same barcode can normally be used when selling the same product on:

Amazon
eBay
Shopify
WooCommerce
TikTok Shop
Etsy
Retail stores

This allows you to manage inventory consistently across multiple sales channels.

Why Buy Your Amazon Barcode from Get A Barcode?

We specialise in supplying barcode numbers to UK businesses.

When you buy from us you’ll benefit from:

Instant barcode delivery
No annual renewal fees
Affordable pricing
UK-based business
Barcode numbers suitable for Amazon listings
Excellent customer support
Fast online ordering

Whether you’re launching your first product or managing hundreds of SKUs, we make the process straightforward.

Learn More

You may also find these guides useful:

These resources explain everything from choosing the right barcode to selling across multiple online marketplaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Amazon require a barcode?

In most cases, yes. New product listings usually require an EAN, UPC or another recognised product identifier unless your product qualifies for a GTIN exemption.

Can I use one barcode for multiple products?

No. Every unique product or variation requires its own barcode.

Do I need a barcode for Amazon FBA?

Generally, yes. In addition to the product barcode, Amazon may require an FNSKU label depending on your fulfilment settings and account status.

Can I sell on Amazon without a barcode?

Some sellers qualify for a GTIN exemption, particularly in categories such as handmade products, bundles and certain private-label items.

Can I use my Amazon barcode elsewhere?

Yes. The same EAN barcode can usually be used for the same product across multiple online marketplaces and retail channels.

Ready to Buy Your Amazon Barcodes?

Whether you’re launching your first product or expanding an existing catalogue, having the correct barcode is one of the first steps towards selling successfully on Amazon.

Browse our Buy Barcode Numbers page to order online today, or explore our barcode guides to learn more about choosing the right barcode for your business.

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