North America

Amazon (USA/Canada)

The absolute leader for everything. Amazon dominates global commerce and sets the standard for product identification. Selling on Amazon requires valid, GS1-origin GTIN codes (UPC/EAN) to create new product listings.

Barcode Requirements

To sell on Amazon (USA/Canada), you are generally required to provide a unique Product ID. This platform fully accepts standard GS1-origin codes.

GTIN-12 (UPC)

Accepted & Recommended

GTIN-13 (EAN)

Accepted (Global Standard)

About Amazon (USA/Canada) Requirements

Amazon is the world's largest online marketplace, controlling a dominant share of e-commerce in North America. For sellers, it represents the single biggest opportunity for growth—but it also comes with the strictest requirements. Amazon's catalog system relies heavily on Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) to uniquely identify products. Without a valid, GS1-compliant UPC (or EAN) code, you generally cannot create a new product listing (ASIN) on the platform. Amazon verifies these codes against the GS1 database to ensure authenticity.

Validation Policy: Amazon uses a strict verification process. When you attempt to list a new product, their system checks the UPC/EAN you provide against the GS1 database. If the code is invalid, recycled, or belongs to a different brand/entity than what is on your listing, you will likely encounter Error 5665 or Error 5461. UPC Market provides legacy, pre-2002 UPC codes that are valid, GS1-origin, and safe to use on Amazon because they predate the current subscription-based licensing model.

How to List Your Product

Purchase a valid GTIN-12 (UPC) code from UPC Market.

Navigate to 'Catalog' > 'Add Products'.

Select 'I'm adding a product not sold on Amazon'.

Enter your Product ID (the 12-digit UPC code) and select 'UPC' from the dropdown menu.

Complete the product details (Brand, Title, Manufacturer).

Submit your listing. Amazon will verify the code instantly.

Common Issues & Solutions

Error 5665 (Brand Name Policy)

This error occurs when Amazon requires proof that you own the brand name you are listing. It is often triggered if your brand is not in the Brand Registry. Solution: Contact Seller Support with photos of your product showing the brand name permanently affixed.

Error 5461 (ASIN Creation Policy)

This happens when you try to create a new ASIN for a brand that is already restricted or registered to another owner. Ensure your brand name is exactly as it appears on your product packaging.

Code not accepted immediately

Sometimes it takes 24-48 hours for a newly issued UPC code to propagate through global databases. If Amazon rejects it initially, wait a few hours and try again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Amazon check the owner name in the GS1 database?

For legacy codes (like the ones we sell), Amazon verifies that the code is valid and exists in the GS1 structure. Because these codes were issued before 2002, the 'owner' information in GEPIR generally reflects the original licensee, not you. Amazon accepts this for most unbranded or generic products. If you are a major brand enrolling in Brand Registry, they may prefer a direct GS1 lease.

Can I use one UPC for multiple variations (size/color)?

No. Amazon requires a unique UPC for every single variation. If you sell a shirt in 3 sizes and 2 colors, you need 6 unique UPC codes.

Is it better to use UPC or EAN for Amazon US?

For Amazon.com (USA) and Amazon.ca, the 12-digit UPC is the standard. However, the system technically accepts 13-digit EANs as well.

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