Latin America

Mercado Libre

The 'Amazon of Latin America.' Dominates Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, and Chile. Sellers must complete the 'Product Identity' sheet with valid EAN/UPC codes to improve search ranking.

Barcode Requirements

To sell on Mercado Libre, 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 Mercado Libre Requirements

Mercado Libre is the undisputed e-commerce leader in Latin America, processing millions of transactions daily across Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, and Chile. To professionalize its catalog, Mercado Libre has implemented a 'Product Identity' system that strongly favors products with valid Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs). Listings with verified EAN/UPC codes receive a significant boost in search ranking ('relevance') and are eligible for Google Shopping ads.

Validation Policy: Mercado Libre verifies GTINs strictly. If you enter a code that doesn't match the product specifically (e.g., using a generic code for a branded item), the system may flag it or lower its exposure. They accept both GTIN-13 (EAN) and GTIN-12 (UPC). For sellers moving goods across borders (e.g., US to Mexico), standard UPCs work perfectly.

How to List Your Product

Go to 'Publicaciones' (Listings) or 'Agregar publicación'.

When asked for product details, locate the 'Código universal de producto' (Universal Product Code) field.

Enter your 12-digit UPC or 13-digit EAN.

Complete the technical specifications ('Ficha Técnica').

Publish. Your product visibility score will calculate immediately.

Common Issues & Solutions

Error: GTIN inválido

This usually happens if the checksum is wrong or if you're trying to use a restricted prefix. Ensure you are typing the code without spaces or dashes.

Variation Requirements

If you sell a product with variations (Color/Size), Mercado Libre mandates a unique GTIN for *each* variation. You cannot use one code for the parent listing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EAN or UPC better for Mercado Libre?

Both are fully accepted. EAN-13 is more common in South America, while UPC-12 is common for imports from the US. If you buy from UPC Market, you get a GTIN-12 which works everywhere.

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