Posted on Posted in Documentation, UPC Codes

In today's competitive retail landscape, proper barcode labels aren't just a technical requirement—they're a critical business asset. Whether you're selling products on Amazon, in brick-and-mortar stores, or through your own e-commerce platform, professional barcode labels serve multiple crucial functions:

  • Ensure retail compliance with major sellers like Walmart, Target, and Costco
  • Enable efficient inventory tracking across your entire supply chain
  • Streamline checkout processes for better customer experiences
  • Present a professional image that builds consumer trust
  • Prevent costly scanning errors that can lead to returns and lost sales

While many businesses initially try to handle barcode label printing in-house, there are significant advantages to partnering with a specialized service like our Print & Ship Barcode Label Service at UPCs.com.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about barcode label printing—from DIY approaches to professional solutions that can save you time, money, and headaches.

The Foundation: Securing Legitimate UPC Codes

Before you can print a single barcode label, you need to obtain valid, registered UPC codes that uniquely identify your products in the global marketplace.

Why UPC Code Quality Matters

Not all UPC codes are created equal. To ensure your products scan properly at checkout and comply with retailer requirements, you need authentic UPC codes that are:

  • Globally unique to your specific products
  • Properly registered in product databases
  • Compatible with all standard scanning systems
  • Retailer-approved for major sales channels

At UPCs.com, we provide instant access to legitimate UPC codes at competitive prices, allowing you to immediately generate scannable barcode images or order professionally printed labels.

👉 Get Your Authentic UPC Codes Now

Barcode Label Printing: Professional Service vs. DIY Approach

When it comes to producing your barcode labels, you have two main options: printing them yourself or partnering with a professional service. Let's compare the pros and cons of each approach.

The DIY Approach: What You'll Need

If you decide to print your own barcode labels, be prepared to invest in:

1. Equipment Requirements

  • A high-quality printer (laser or thermal)
  • Specialized label sheets or rolls
  • Ink or toner supplies
  • Label design software
  • Barcode scanning equipment for testing

2. Technical Expertise

  • Understanding of barcode sizing standards
  • Knowledge of print resolution requirements
  • Familiarity with label material selection
  • Ability to troubleshoot scanning issues

3. Time Investment

  • Setup and configuration time
  • Design and formatting hours
  • Print testing and quality assurance
  • Ongoing maintenance and supplies management

The true cost of DIY barcode printing goes far beyond the initial equipment investment. Many sellers find themselves spending valuable hours troubleshooting printing issues or dealing with retailer rejections due to low-quality labels—time that could be better spent growing their business.

❌ DIY Printing Challenges:

  • Requires significant upfront equipment investment
  • Quality inconsistencies lead to scanning failures
  • Time-consuming setup and maintenance
  • Technical troubleshooting diverts focus from your core business
  • Costly mistakes can result in retailer rejections

✅ Professional Printing Benefits:

  • Guaranteed scan-ready quality
  • No equipment or maintenance costs
  • Consistent, retail-compliant results
  • Save valuable time and eliminate technical headaches
  • Flexible options for any product type

The Professional Advantage: UPCs.com Print & Ship Service

Our Print & Ship Barcode Label Service eliminates the complexity and risk from the barcode labeling process, offering:

1. Guaranteed Quality

  • 100% scan verification on every label
  • High-contrast printing for optimal scanning
  • Retail-compliant formats accepted by all major retailers
  • Professional-grade adhesives that stay put

2. Flexible Options

  • Custom sizing to fit your specific packaging
  • Material choices including waterproof and specialty stocks
  • Roll or sheet formats based on your application method
  • Variable quantities from small batches to bulk orders

3. Business Benefits

  • Eliminate equipment costs and maintenance
  • Reduce labor hours spent on technical tasks
  • Prevent costly rejections from retailers
  • Present a professional, consistent brand image

👉 Order Professional Barcode Labels

DIY Printing Guide: Essential Steps for Success

If you've decided to print your own barcode labels, follow these steps carefully to maximize your chances of success:

Step 1: Generate Perfect Barcode Images

Start with high-quality digital barcode files:

  • Use our free barcode generator (included with your UPC purchase)
  • Download files in vector format (SVG) when possible for maximum clarity
  • Ensure a minimum resolution of 300 dpi for bitmap formats
  • Verify your barcode includes quiet zones (white space around the code)

Step 2: Select the Right Label Materials

Label selection significantly impacts scan reliability:

Label Size Best For Common Uses
1" x 2.625" Standard retail packaging Boxes, bottles, most consumer goods
2" x 1" Small items Cosmetics, jewelry, small containers
4" x 2" Shipping cartons Master packs, case labels

Material considerations:

  • Matte finish: Best for standard retail environments
  • Gloss finish: Ideal for visually prominent placements
  • Waterproof: Essential for refrigerated or bathroom products
  • Removable adhesive: Good for temporary labeling needs

Step 3: Choose the Right Printing Technology

Your printer selection should match your volume and quality needs:

  • Standard inkjet printers: Suitable for very low volumes (under 100 labels/month)
  • Laser printers: Better for medium volumes with good detail reproduction
  • Thermal printers: Ideal for high-volume production and excellent scan reliability

Popular thermal printer options include:

  • Zebra GK420d (industry standard for retail labels)
  • Rollo Label Printer (popular with Amazon sellers)
  • DYMO LabelWriter 450 (good for small operations)

Step 4: Design and Layout Best Practices

When designing your labels:

  • Keep barcodes at 100% scale (never distort the proportions)
  • Maintain minimum 1/8" white space around all barcode edges
  • Ensure high contrast (black bars on white background)
  • Test print on plain paper before using expensive label stock
  • Scan test prints with multiple scanning devices

Step 5: Quality Control Process

Before applying labels to products:

  1. Print a test sheet
  2. Scan each barcode with at least two different scanning devices
  3. Verify the correct UPC number appears when scanned
  4. Check for any scanning hesitation or errors
  5. Inspect for print quality issues like smudging or fading

Pro Tip: The Barcode Test

A properly printed barcode should scan instantly from multiple angles and distances. If your scanner struggles to read the code, retailers' systems will likely have the same issue—potentially resulting in rejected shipments or frustrated customers.

Why Thousands of Sellers Choose Our Professional Label Service

While DIY printing is possible, there are compelling reasons why growing businesses eventually transition to our professional label service:

1. Hidden Costs of DIY Printing

The true expense of in-house printing extends far beyond initial equipment:

  • Equipment maintenance and repairs
  • Software updates and technical support
  • Ongoing supplies (ink, toner, labels)
  • Labor costs for setup and production
  • Waste from test prints and errors

Many sellers find that professional printing is actually more economical when all factors are considered—especially when accounting for the opportunity cost of time spent on technical tasks rather than growth activities.

2. Risk Reduction

With professional label printing, you eliminate several business risks:

  • No rejected shipments due to scanning failures
  • No delays from printer malfunctions
  • No inventory issues from misidentified products
  • No emergency reprints when equipment fails

3. Scalability Advantages

As your business grows, our service scales effortlessly with you:

  • Consistent quality from 50 to 50,000+ labels
  • Quick turnaround even for large orders
  • Volume discounts for growing businesses
  • Professional appearance across your entire product line

👉 Eliminate Barcode Headaches with Professional Printing

Industry-Specific Barcode Solutions

Different industries have unique barcode requirements. Our service is tailored to meet the specific needs of:

E-Commerce & Marketplace Sellers

  • Amazon FBA Labels: FNSKU and UPC formats optimized for fulfillment centers
  • eBay/Etsy Compliance: Standards-compliant labels that work with all platforms
  • Shopify Integration: Labels that seamlessly connect with inventory systems

Retail Brands

  • Big Box Compliance: Meet the exacting standards of Walmart, Target, and other major retailers
  • Specialty Retail: Custom solutions for boutique and specialty store requirements
  • Global Distribution: Labels that comply with international scanning standards

Food & Beverage Products

  • FDA-Compliant Materials: Safe for food contact packaging
  • Moisture-Resistant Options: For refrigerated or frozen products
  • Heat-Tolerant Adhesives: For products requiring hot-fill or pasteurization

Cosmetics & Personal Care

  • Small-Format Solutions: For limited packaging space
  • Premium Finishes: For high-end brand presentation
  • Chemical-Resistant Options: For products containing oils or alcohol

Frequently Asked Questions

How many barcode labels will I need?

You'll need one unique barcode label for each distinct product variation (each size, color, flavor, etc.). Additionally, if you sell multipacks or bundles, these require their own unique UPCs and labels.

What size should my barcode labels be?

The optimal size depends on your packaging. Standard retail products typically use 1" x 2.625" labels, while smaller items might require 1" x 0.5" formats. Our service offers custom sizing to match your exact needs.

Can you print both UPC and FNSKU labels for Amazon?

Absolutely! We can print any barcode format, including Amazon-specific FNSKU labels, EAN, ITF-14 for outer cartons, and QR codes for marketing purposes.

How quickly can I receive my printed labels?

Standard orders ship within 1-2 business days. Rush service is available for time-sensitive needs, with same-day processing on orders placed before noon ET.

Can I include my logo or additional information on the labels?

Yes! We offer custom label design services that can incorporate your branding, product information, batch codes, or any other required data alongside the barcode.

Are your labels waterproof?

We offer both standard and waterproof material options. Our waterproof labels are perfect for products exposed to moisture, refrigeration, or frequent handling.

Why Partner with UPCs.com for Your Barcode Needs

When you choose UPCs.com for your barcode needs, you're partnering with the industry leader trusted by thousands of successful brands:

  • 20+ years of experience in UPC and barcode solutions
  • Millions of labels printed for businesses of all sizes
  • 99.9% scan rate guarantee on all printed labels
  • Exceptional customer support from barcode experts
  • End-to-end service from code acquisition to label printing

We understand that reliable barcodes are a critical component of your business operations—not just a technical checkbox. That's why we've optimized every aspect of our service to provide the highest quality, most reliable barcode solutions available.

"Switching to UPCs.com's professional label service saved us countless hours of frustration. Their labels scan perfectly every time, and our retail partners have noticed the improved quality. It's one less thing we have to worry about as we scale our business."

— Sarah Johnson, Founder of NaturalGlow Skincare

Take the Next Step: Streamline Your Barcode Process Today

Don't let barcode complications hold back your business growth. Join thousands of successful sellers who have simplified their operations with our comprehensive barcode solutions.

🚀 Ready to elevate your product labeling?

👉 Order Your Professional Barcode Labels

👉 Get Your UPC Codes Instantly

👉 Contact Our Barcode Experts

Posted on Posted in Documentation

Navigating the world of Amazon selling involves understanding various identifiers and barcodes that play crucial roles in product listing, inventory management, and fulfillment. Among these, the Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit (FNSKU) stands out as a pivotal element for sellers utilizing Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) service. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of FNSKU, its distinctions from other identifiers like ASIN and UPC, and best practices for labeling and managing your products on Amazon.

Looking to buy printed FNSKU labels for Amazon? We offer Print & Ship service, ships within 24 hours.

What is an FNSKU?

The Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit (FNSKU) is a unique identifier assigned by Amazon to products fulfilled through its FBA program. This barcode links a product to a specific seller, ensuring accurate tracking and inventory management within Amazon’s fulfillment centers. By using FNSKUs, Amazon can distinguish identical products sold by different sellers, preventing the commingling of inventory and ensuring that each seller’s stock is managed separately.

Here is an example of what an FNSKU label looks like:

It contains a barcode, the FNSKU below it (which is generated by Amazon), the product name, and the condition.  But the barcode is the most important piece because it is scanned upon arrival to manage inventory in and out of the warehouses.

FNSKU vs. ASIN vs. UPC: Understanding the Differences

To effectively manage your Amazon inventory, it’s essential to comprehend the differences between FNSKU, ASIN, and UPC:

  • ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number): A unique 10-character alphanumeric identifier assigned to every product in Amazon’s catalog. The ASIN is used to identify the product itself across the Amazon platform. Multiple sellers offering the same product will share the same ASIN.  The ASIN usually starts with a B and is in the URL of the listing, for example:
    amazon.com/ ILM-Motorcycle-Street-Helmet-Removable /dp/ B01HEHOCAK
    ILM-Motorcycle-Street-Helmet-Removable is the product title and B01HEHOCAK is the ASIN for the listing in this example.
  • UPC (Universal Product Code): A standard barcode used universally to identify products, regardless of where they’re sold. All units of a product share the same UPC, which doesn’t distinguish between different sellers. UPCs are typically 12-digit numeric codes used in retail for product identification.  These are used globally as the standard for identifying products, on and off of Amazon. ASINs and FNSKUs are specific to Amazon only.  You can read our UPC Barcode Guide here.
  • FNSKU: Specific to Amazon’s FBA program, the FNSKU ties a product to a particular seller, ensuring that even identical products from different sellers are tracked separately. This unique identifier helps maintain the integrity of each seller’s inventory within Amazon’s fulfillment centers.  FNSKUs are usually 10 characters and often start with X.

Here is an example of an Amazon listing showing these:

Size: Standard-Size
UPC: 735816833244
EAN: 0735816833244
ASIN: B0927DM4C6
FNSKU: X002V6V9T3

Note this is 1 listing that has a UPC, EAN, ASIN, and FNSKU.  This is common for every listing on Amazon and all serve the purpose of product identification.  However, if multiple sellers are selling the same ASIN, they will have different FNSKUs so Amazon can separate inventory between the sellers.

For example, if you’re selling a blue widget and another seller is offering the same blue widget, both might share the same ASIN to identify the product on Amazon’s catalog. However, your FNSKU will be different from theirs, ensuring Amazon knows which units belong to you. This distinction helps prevent mix-ups, keeps your inventory separate, and ensures you get credited for your sales.

In summary, while the ASIN identifies the product within Amazon’s catalog and the UPC serves as a universal product identifier, the FNSKU is crucial for linking the product to the specific seller in the FBA system.

The Importance of FNSKU in Amazon’s FBA Program

Utilizing FNSKUs is vital for several reasons:

  • Accurate Inventory Tracking: FNSKUs enable Amazon to track each seller’s inventory individually, reducing the risk of mix-ups and ensuring that sales are attributed to the correct seller.\
  • Quality Control: By associating products with specific sellers, FNSKUs help maintain quality control, as any issues with a product can be traced back to the responsible seller.
  • Preventing Commingling: Without FNSKUs, identical products from different sellers could be stored together (commingled), leading to potential problems with counterfeit or substandard products. FNSKUs prevent this by keeping inventories separate.

How to Create and Use FNSKU Labels

Implementing FNSKU labels on your products involves several steps:

1. Setting Barcode Preferences

Before creating FNSKU labels, ensure that your account is configured to use Amazon barcodes:

  • Access Seller Central: Log in to your Amazon Seller Central account.
  • Navigate to Fulfillment Settings: Go to Settings > Fulfillment by Amazon.
  • Edit Barcode Preferences: In the FBA Product Barcode Preference section, select Amazon barcode and save the changes.

2. Listing Your Product

Once your barcode preferences are set:

  • Create or Edit a Listing: Add a new product or convert an existing listing to FBA.
  • Amazon Assigns the FNSKU: After the listing is created, Amazon will generate an FNSKU for your product.

3. Printing and Applying FNSKU Labels

Proper labeling is crucial for inventory management:

  • Generate Labels: In Seller Central, navigate to Inventory > Manage FBA Inventory. Find your product, select the dropdown menu next to it, and choose Print item labels.
  • Print Labels: Use a compatible printer to print the labels. Ensure they meet Amazon’s labeling requirements, including size and readability.  We also can print them for you, you can order easily here and we will print & ship them to you for labeling.
  • Apply Labels: Affix the FNSKU label to each unit, covering any existing barcodes to prevent confusion during the fulfillment process.

4. Amazon Labeling Service

If you prefer not to label products yourself, Amazon offers a labeling service:

  • Service Fee: Amazon charges a per-item fee for labeling your products.
  • Opt-In: During the shipment creation process, select the option to have Amazon label your products.
  • Provide Necessary Information: Ensure that your products arrive at the fulfillment center without labels, and Amazon will apply the FNSKU labels for you.

Best Practices for Managing FNSKU Labels

To ensure seamless operations within Amazon’s fulfillment network, consider the following best practices:

  • Quality Printing: Use high-quality printers and materials to produce clear, scannable labels.
  • Correct Placement: Place labels on a flat, easily accessible surface of the product packaging to facilitate efficient scanning.  It is also important to cover any existing barcodes as well with the FNSKU barcode.
  • Regular Audits: Periodically review your inventory to ensure all products are correctly labeled and that labels remain intact and legible.
  • Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any changes in Amazon’s labeling requirements or guidelines.

And that’s a wrap on FNSKUs.  If you have any other questions or need any help, we’re here to help, you can reach out anytime.

You can read out Amazon UPC Guide here for more information as well.

If you need to purchase UPC Codes for your products to list on Amazon, you can find our bulk pricing here.

Posted on Posted in Documentation

You can register your codes in a number of ways.  At UPCs.com, you can easily manage and update Product Information such as Product Name and pricing, and you can easily export all of the data to store for your own record.

Accessing the Product Information Section

  1. Log in to Your Account:
    • Go to UPCs.com/my-account and log in using your username and password.  If you don’t recall your password, click on Forgot Password to reset your password.
  2. Navigate to Product Information:
    • Once logged in, click on “Product Information” on the left side. Here, you can enter your product details, and price for each code you purchased.

Entering Product Details

In the “Product Information” section, you will see a list of your UPCs. Next to each UPC, there are fields where you can input specific details about your products.

  1. Find the UPC:
    • Locate the UPC for the product you want to update.
  2. Enter Product Details:
    • Product Name: Input the name of your product. Make sure it is clear and descriptive.
    • Price: Specify the price of the product.
  3. Save Your Information:
    • After entering all the details, click the “Save” button to update your product information.

Tips for Accurate Product Information

  • Be Detailed: The more detailed your product descriptions, the better. This helps in accurately representing your product and improving searchability.
  • Keep Information Updated: Regularly update your product information to reflect any changes in price, description, or other details.
  • Consistency: Ensure consistency in the information you provide to avoid any confusion or errors.

Note that each vendor you sell at – Amazon, Walmart, a local retail shop – will ask for your UPC, product information, pricing, etc.  Each vendor may use a different database/POS to handle their own inventory management.  Keeping this information organized and up to date is important, and we suggest you keep the Product Information in your UPCs.com account accurate and updated.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues while entering your product information, here are some common solutions:

  • Information Not Saving: Ensure all required fields are filled out before saving.
  • Incorrect UPC: Double-check the UPC to ensure it matches your product.
  • I don’t see any UPCs: If you don’t see any UPCs, ensure you’re logging in with the same email you used when you ordered.  If you don’t remember, email us a spreadsheet with your order #, the list of UPCs ordered, and the product information next to each UPC and we will update it.

Depending on where you’re listing, the troubleshooting steps may be different.  For Amazon, please see our listing instructions here.

Conclusion

Entering accurate product information on UPCs.com is crucial for managing your inventory and making your products discoverable. Follow this guide to ensure all necessary details are provided next to each UPC. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our support team.

Posted on Posted in Documentation

When creating a new listing on Amazon, you may encounter the following error:

Error Code 5461 | You may not create ASINs for this brand. Please review our ASIN Creation Policy here: https://sellercentral.amazon.com/gp/help/201844590

Amazon Error Code 5461: ASIN Creation Blocked for Specific Brands

When listing products on Amazon, encountering error code 5461 means you’re unable to create ASINs for a particular brand. This happens when a brand is part of Amazon’s Brand Registry, which ensures only authorized sellers can list products under that brand.

Solution:
Instead of inputting the registered brand (e.g., Adidas) in the “Brand” field, use your own unique company/brand name. Place the brand name in the product description instead, if needed.

This workaround helps prevent Amazon’s system from cross-referencing brand-registered barcodes with your entry.

Posted on Posted in UPC Codes

Ensuring the accuracy and readability of barcodes is crucial for efficient product tracking and inventory management. However, common mistakes during the printing and placement of barcodes can lead to scanning errors, operational delays, and customer dissatisfaction. This comprehensive guide outlines prevalent errors and provides best practices to help you avoid them.

1. Selecting the Incorrect Barcode Type

Choosing the appropriate barcode symbology is fundamental. Different industries and applications require specific barcode types. For instance, UPC-A codes are standard in North America for retail products, while EAN-13 codes are prevalent internationally. Using an unsuitable barcode type can result in scanning issues and data misinterpretation.

Best Practice: Identify the barcode symbology that aligns with your product and market requirements. For a detailed comparison, refer to our article on GTIN vs. UPC – What are they and How to Use Barcodes.

2. Inadequate Print Quality

Poor print quality is a leading cause of barcode scanning failures. Factors such as low resolution, smudging, and inconsistent ink application can render barcodes unreadable.

Best Practice: Utilize high-resolution printers and quality materials to produce clear, sharp barcodes. Regularly maintain printing equipment to prevent defects. For professional printing services, consider our Printed Barcode Labels offering.

3. Improper Barcode Size

Barcodes that are too small may lack the necessary detail for scanners, while excessively large barcodes can distort the encoded information.

Best Practice: Adhere to industry-standard dimensions for barcodes. For UPC-A codes, the nominal size is 1.469 inches wide by 1.02 inches high. Scaling should be done proportionally to maintain readability.

4. Insufficient Quiet Zones

Quiet zones are the blank spaces surrounding a barcode, essential for scanner recognition. Inadequate quiet zones can lead to scanning errors.

Best Practice: Ensure that quiet zones are at least ten times the width of the narrowest bar in the barcode. Avoid placing text or graphics too close to the barcode.

5. Inappropriate Placement on Packaging

Placing barcodes on curved surfaces, edges, or areas prone to damage can hinder scanning.

Best Practice: Position barcodes on flat, smooth surfaces away from seams or folds. Ensure they are easily accessible for scanning without obstruction.

6. Using Non-Contrast Colors

Barcodes require high contrast between the bars and the background for optimal readability. Using colors with insufficient contrast can cause scanning failures.

Best Practice: Opt for black bars on a white background. If color is necessary, ensure a dark color for the bars and a light, contrasting background.

7. Overlooking Barcode Verification

Failing to verify barcodes before distribution can result in undetected errors, leading to operational inefficiencies.

Best Practice: Implement a verification process to test barcode readability and compliance with standards. Regular verification helps identify and rectify issues promptly.

8. Neglecting Environmental Considerations

Environmental factors such as moisture, temperature, and exposure to chemicals can degrade barcode quality.

Best Practice: Choose durable materials and printing methods suited to the product’s storage and handling conditions. Protect barcodes with laminates or coatings if necessary.

9. Ignoring Regulatory Requirements

Different industries and regions have specific barcode standards and regulations. Non-compliance can lead to legal issues and market access problems.

Best Practice: Stay informed about relevant barcode standards and ensure your barcodes meet all regulatory requirements. Consult resources like our Guide to UPC Barcodes – Everything You Need to Know for detailed information.

10. Failing to Register UPC Codes

Unregistered UPC codes can cause confusion and hinder product tracking across supply chains.

Best Practice: After purchasing UPC codes, register them with your retailers and relevant databases. This ensures accurate product information is associated with your barcodes. For guidance, see our article on Do I need to register my UPC Codes?.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common mistakes in barcode printing and placement is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. By adhering to best practices and staying informed about industry standards, you can ensure your barcodes function effectively throughout the product lifecycle.

Need printed barcodes? We offer print & ship services to all US customers.

For further assistance and resources, explore our Help Center or contact our support team.

Posted on Posted in Documentation

Product ID Validity Check on Amazon: Using GS1 GEPIR and ISBN.org Databases

When adding products to Amazon, you may encounter an error regarding the validity of a product ID. This happens because Amazon cross-references the Product ID (UPC, EAN, GTIN) with the GS1 GEPIR and ISBN.org databases to confirm authenticity.

What You Need to Know
If your Product ID is not registered with GS1, Amazon might suppress the linked ASIN or even revoke product creation privileges. This is especially enforced for sellers in Amazon’s Brand Registry program.  All of the codes we sell at UPCs.com are GS1/UCC codes that will work fine on Amazon, without the renewal fees.

Simple acknowledge the message and check the “Don’t show this again” option.  Then click the “Got it” button and continue with the listing as normal.

Need a UPC for your listing? You can purchase UPC barcodes from us here.

Posted on Posted in Documentation

Dealing with Conflicting Values When Adding Products on Amazon

When listing products on Amazon, you might encounter the error: “The value specified conflicts with the value for ASIN in the Amazon catalog.” This typically occurs when either:

  1. You’ve already listed a product with the same UPC.
  2. Another seller has improperly used your unique barcode.

Amazon’s system doesn’t clear old listings, which can lead to “tombstoned” ASINs tied to old, incorrect GTINs. Unfortunately, Amazon doesn’t purge these listings, causing complications.

Solutions

  • If the error is due to a reused barcode, use a different number from your order.  You can contact us and we will reissue you a new code.
  • If another seller has used your barcode illegally, you’ll need to contact support for further assistance.

Note: Any UPC you purchase from UPCs.com is unique and owned solely by your company.  It is not issued to anyone else, nor are any codes recycled.  In rare cases where there is theft of your UPC, please let us know immediately and we can reissue your UPC.

If you’ve ordered a UPC from us, please contact us with your order # and the UPC in question -we’re here to help.

Posted on Posted in Documentation

Error Code 8542 | The SKU data provided conflicts with the Amazon catalog

Encountering Error Code 8542 means the SKU data provided for your product conflicts with an existing Amazon listing. This typically occurs in two scenarios:

  1. You’ve already listed a product using the same UPC/EAN/GTIN.
  2. Another seller has illegally used your barcode.

To resolve this:

  • Use a different UPC barcode from your inventory/order.
  • If illegal use is detected, reach out to Amazon Support with relevant details for resolution.

Note: Any UPC you purchase from UPCs.com is unique and owned solely by your company.  It is not issued to anyone else, nor are any codes recycled.  In rare cases where there is theft of your UPC, please let us know immediately and we can reissue your UPC.

If you’ve ordered a UPC from us, please contact us with your order # and the UPC in question -we’re here to help.

Posted on Posted in UPC Codes

In today’s interconnected marketplace, accurate product identification and tracking are essential for consumers and businesses alike. Two key components in this process are Manufacturer Part Numbers (MPNs) and Universal Product Codes (UPCs). In this article, we will explore the significance of MPNs, their usage, and their relationship with UPCs.

MPNs (Manufacturer Part Numbers):

MPNs are unique identification codes assigned by manufacturers to specific products or components they produce. They serve several critical functions:

  1. Product Differentiation: MPNs distinguish similar products from different manufacturers, making it clear they are distinct items.
  2. Inventory Management: MPNs streamline inventory tracking and management, aiding businesses in maintaining stock levels and reordering.
  3. Simplified Communication: MPNs simplify communication within the supply chain, reducing errors in orders and deliveries.

How Are MPNs Used?

MPNs find application in various industries:

  1. E-commerce: Sellers use MPNs in product listings on platforms like eBay, helping buyers find exact items.
  2. Retail: Retailers label products with MPNs for easy customer identification and accurate purchases.
  3. Manufacturing: Manufacturers employ MPNs for tracking components and ensuring quality control.
  4. Warranty and Support: MPNs assist in identifying product specifications and history when registering for warranty or seeking support.

The Relationship Between MPNs and UPCs:

MPNs and UPCs serve similar purposes but differ in key ways:

UPCs (Universal Product Codes):

  1. Designed for Point of Sale: UPCs are barcodes used primarily for quick and accurate scanning at checkout.
  2. Universal Categories: UPCs represent product categories, allowing retailers to manage inventory efficiently.
  3. Less Granular: They provide broad categorization and do not distinguish minor product variations.
  4. Administered by GS1: UPCs are administered by GS1 to ensure global uniqueness.

MPNs (Manufacturer Part Numbers):

  1. Unique to Products: MPNs are specific to individual products or components, even with minor differences.
  2. Used Internally and in Listings: Manufacturers assign MPNs for internal tracking and communication, and sellers use them in e-commerce listings.
  3. Higher Granularity: MPNs offer detailed product information, aiding buyers in finding precise items.
  4. Assigned by Manufacturers: Each manufacturer assigns its MPNs, and there is no centralized authority governing them.

In summary, MPNs and UPCs play vital roles in product identification, but they have distinct purposes and characteristics. MPNs are used for internal tracking, product differentiation, and detailed listings, while UPCs simplify checkout and inventory management at the point of sale.

Understanding the differences between these codes is essential for efficient inventory management, accurate tracking, and improved customer experiences in the world of commerce. Both MPNs and UPCs contribute to ensuring the right products reach consumers, streamlining operations for businesses and enhancing the shopping process.

Posted on Posted in Documentation, UPC Codes

Yes, your invoice is available under My Account > Orders page where you can download your invoice, review your orders, and more.  If you have specific needs for your country, feel free to modify the invoice to your specific needs.