How to Buy and Register EAN Codes for Amazon Listings?
If you’re planning to sell on Amazon, ensuring your products are correctly identified is essential—not only for discoverability but also for compliance with Amazon’s listing policies. One of the key requirements for listing products on Amazon is a valid EAN code.
This article provides a clear and professional guide on how to buy and register EAN codes for Amazon listings, with a focus on using authentic sources and aligning with Amazon’s strict product identification rules.
What is an EAN Code?
EAN stands for European Article Number. It’s a 13-digit/8-digit globally recognised barcode standard used for identifying products in retail and e-commerce. While the UPC (Universal Product Code)—a 12-digit format—is common in North America, EANs are more widely accepted across international marketplaces, including Amazon platforms outside the U.S.
For Indian sellers or those targeting Europe, the UK, or global Amazon marketplaces, EAN codes are the preferred standard for listing products.
Why EAN Codes Are Required on Amazon?
Amazon recommends GTIN/EAN for product listing because –
- GTIN/EAN helps uniquely identify products in its vast catalogue
- Avoid duplicate listings
- Prevent counterfeit or unauthorised products by delisting fraudulent products from the platform
Most new listings on Amazon require a valid EAN, UPC, or ISBN. However, sellers with private label or handmade products may request a GTIN exemption if they meet specific criteria.
Where to Buy Authentic EAN Codes
GS1 Barcodes (Recommended by Amazon)
Amazon officially recommends sourcing EANs/GTINs directly from GS1. It is the global body responsible for supply chain standard management and creation. It has more than 116 member organisations, with GS1 India being one of them.
How to register with GS1 India for GS1 barcodes –
- Visit www.gs1india.org
- Register for GS1 barcodes and pay the applicable fees.
- Generate your EAN/GTIN codes using DataKart – the national product data repository.
Benefits of using GS1 barcodes –
- Meet compliance with Amazon’s policies
- Your company name is linked to your EAN/GTIN in the GS1 database
- Lower risk of getting rejected or of account suspension
Step-by-Step: How to Register EAN Codes on Amazon
Here’s how to correctly use your EAN codes when listing products on Amazon:
- Log in to your Amazon Seller Central account
- Go to Inventory → Add a Product
- Choose your product category
- Enter required details like product name, brand, size, and description
- In the “Product ID” section, select EAN/GTIN from the drop-down and input the 13-digit code
- Submit and wait for Amazon’s internal product verification
If the EAN/GTIN is from GS1 and matches your brand, the listing should be accepted without issues.
What to Do If Amazon Rejects Your EAN Code
If your EAN code is not accepted:
- Check the GS1 database to confirm your brand’s ownership
- Ensure the EAN/GTIN is not already in use on Amazon under another brand
- If you sell private label or handmade products, consider applying for a GTIN exemption through Seller Central under the product category
Conclusion
EAN codes play a critical role in Amazon’s product ecosystem. Using valid, GS1 India-issued EANs/GTINs ensures smooth listing, better product discoverability, and customer trust.
While low-cost codes might seem attractive, they pose serious risks. The safest and most professional route is to buy your EAN/GTIN codes from GS1 India and manage them through DataKart, ensuring full ownership, authenticity, and compliance with Amazon’s requirements.
Investing in authentic EAN/GTIN codes is not just a best practice—it’s essential for sustainable success on Amazon.
