Starting a new business is exciting, but many new sellers make simple barcode mistakes that can delay product launches, cause marketplace listing problems, or even prevent products from being sold altogether.
Whether you’re selling on Amazon, eBay, Shopify, Etsy, TikTok Shop or your own website, using the correct barcode from the beginning can save time, money and frustration.
This guide explains the most common barcode mistakes made by new sellers and shows you how to avoid them.
1. Assuming Every Product Doesn’t Need a Barcode
One of the biggest misconceptions is believing that barcodes are only required by supermarkets.
In reality, many online marketplaces require products to have a unique barcode before they can be listed.
You may need a barcode if you sell on:
- Amazon
- eBay
- Shopify
- TikTok Shop
- WooCommerce
- Wix
- Squarespace
- BigCommerce
- Not On The High Street
Even if a marketplace doesn’t require one today, adding a barcode now makes inventory management much easier as your business grows.
Related reading:
- https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/do-i-need-a-barcode-to-sell-my-product/
- https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/how-to-buy-a-barcode-for-a-product/
2. Buying Too Few Barcodes
Many new sellers purchase a single barcode, only to realise later they need several more.
Remember that every unique product variation requires its own barcode.
For example:
| Product | Barcode Required |
|---|---|
| Blue T-Shirt | Yes |
| Red T-Shirt | Yes |
| Small Size | Yes |
| Large Size | Yes |
Different colours, sizes, fragrances, pack quantities or versions all need their own unique barcode.
Buying a small barcode pack can often be better value if you expect your product range to expand.
View barcode packages here:
https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/product-category/buy-barcode-numbers
3. Reusing the Same Barcode
A barcode should identify one product only.
Some sellers try to reuse a barcode across multiple products to save money.
This creates problems including:
- Incorrect stock tracking
- Marketplace listing errors
- Warehouse confusion
- Customer returns being allocated incorrectly
Always allocate one barcode to one product.
4. Buying More Expensive Barcodes Than You Need
Many new businesses believe they must purchase expensive barcode memberships before they can sell online.
In many situations this simply isn’t necessary.
If you’re selling your own branded products online, purchasing ready-to-use EAN barcodes can be a straightforward and cost-effective solution.
The important thing is choosing barcodes that are suitable for the marketplaces where you intend to sell.
5. Printing Poor Quality Barcodes
A barcode is only useful if it scans correctly.
Common printing mistakes include:
- Printing too small
- Stretching the barcode
- Using low-resolution images
- Printing on glossy surfaces without testing
- Poor colour contrast
For the best results:
- Print at high resolution.
- Use black bars on a white background.
- Avoid resizing barcode images.
- Test before printing large quantities.
6. Not Checking Marketplace Requirements
Every marketplace has its own barcode requirements.
For example:
- Amazon
- Etsy
- Shopify
- WooCommerce
- TikTok Shop
- Wix
all have slightly different guidance.
Before listing products, make sure you understand the platform’s requirements.
Helpful guides:
- https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/barcode-requirements-for-amazon/
- https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/barcode-requirements-for-shopify/
- https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/barcode-requirements-for-ebay/
- https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/barcode-requirements-for-etsy/
- https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/barcode-requirements-for-tiktok-shop/
- https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/barcode-requirements-for-woocommerce/
7. Forgetting About Future Products
When launching a first product, it’s easy to focus only on today.
However, many successful businesses soon introduce:
- New colours
- Gift sets
- Bundles
- Multipacks
- Seasonal editions
- New sizes
Planning ahead by purchasing additional barcodes can make expansion much easier.
8. Confusing EAN and UPC Barcodes
Many first-time sellers worry about whether they need an EAN or UPC barcode.
In reality, both barcode formats are widely recognised around the world.
Most UK and European sellers use EAN barcodes, while UPC codes are more common in North America.
Learn more here:
https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/ean-vs-upc-barcodes
9. Waiting Until the Last Minute
Some businesses only think about barcodes after their products have been manufactured.
This can delay:
- Packaging
- Label printing
- Product photography
- Marketplace listings
- Product launches
Ordering your barcode early allows you to complete packaging and listings without unnecessary delays.
10. Choosing the Wrong Barcode Supplier
Not all barcode suppliers provide the same level of service.
Before purchasing, consider:
- Instant delivery
- UK-based support
- Clear pricing
- No annual renewal fees
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Excellent customer reviews
Choosing a trusted supplier makes the entire process much simpler.
How to Avoid Barcode Problems
Fortunately, barcode mistakes are easy to avoid.
Simply:
- Buy the correct number of barcodes.
- Assign one barcode to each product variation.
- Print high-quality barcode labels.
- Check marketplace requirements before listing products.
- Plan for future product launches.
- Purchase from a reputable supplier.
Buy UK Barcodes with Instant Delivery
At Get A Barcode, we make purchasing barcodes simple.
Our barcode numbers are supplied instantly, with no annual fees and clear instructions to help you start selling quickly.
Whether you’re launching your first product or expanding an existing range, we have barcode packages suitable for businesses of every size.
Browse our barcode packages here:
https://www.getabarcode.co.uk/product-category/buy-barcode-numbers
Or learn more about buying your first barcode:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same barcode for two products?
No. Every individual product or product variation should have its own unique barcode.
Do handmade products need barcodes?
Many handmade products sold online benefit from having barcodes, particularly when selling through marketplaces.
Read more:
Do I need a barcode for Amazon?
Most branded products listed on Amazon require a unique barcode unless you qualify for a barcode exemption.
Read our full Amazon guide for more information.
How many barcodes should I buy?
Think about your future product range as well as your current products. Every colour, size or variation usually requires its own barcode.
Final Thoughts
Buying and using barcodes doesn’t have to be complicated. Most problems arise from simple misunderstandings rather than technical issues.
By understanding the common mistakes outlined above, you can launch your products with confidence, avoid listing delays and build a scalable product catalogue from day one.
If you’re ready to get started, explore our range of barcode packages and receive your barcode numbers instantly, so you can focus on growing your business.