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When starting your journey as an Amazon seller, understanding the difference between a UPC Code and an FNSKU Code is crucial. Many sellers ask, “Which one should I use for my Amazon products?” Let’s break this down and provide insights on why choosing the right barcode strategy is essential for long-term success on Amazon.
Video Explanation:
What Is a UPC Code?
A UPC Code stands for Universal Product Code. It’s the barcode you see on most retail products, designed for universal use across stores to track inventory and prices. You can purchase a UPC code directly from GS1 — the official and most trusted source.
Key Benefits of a UPC Code:
- It’s recognized universally, making it essential for creating product listings on Amazon.
- It helps establish your product’s legitimacy and ownership, providing credibility.
However, while a UPC Code is mandatory to create most Amazon listings, it’s not always the best barcode to use for inventory management within Amazon’s ecosystem.
What Is an FNSKU Code?
FNSKU stands for Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit. This is Amazon’s proprietary barcode, used exclusively for tracking products stored and shipped through Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) service.
Unlike the UPC Code, the FNSKU is unique to your product and linked specifically to your Amazon account. This ensures your inventory remains separate from other sellers who might offer similar products.
Why FNSKU Codes Are Better for Amazon Sellers:
- Prevents Commingling: Amazon doesn’t mix your inventory with other sellers’ products, reducing risks like counterfeiting or customer complaints.
- Avoid Future Errors: Amazon frequently requires sellers to switch to FNSKU barcodes later, which can disrupt operations. Starting with FNSKU codes eliminates this risk.
UPC vs. FNSKU: Which One Should You Use?
Short Answer: FNSKU for the win.
Why FNSKU Is the Best Long-Term Choice:
While you need a UPC Code to create an Amazon listing, using an FNSKU for labeling your products is more efficient for Amazon’s fulfillment process. Here’s why:
- Amazon Compliance: Over time, Amazon often enforces the use of FNSKU barcodes for better inventory management.
- Avoid Costly Mistakes: Transitioning from a UPC to an FNSKU mid-stream can be expensive and time-consuming.
- Better Inventory Control: FNSKUs ensure Amazon handles only your products, reducing mix-ups with other sellers’ items.
How to Obtain and Use FNSKU Codes
- Start With a UPC Code: Purchase a UPC code from GS1. This code is required to create your product listing.
- Create Your Listing: Log into Amazon Seller Central, create a listing, and input your UPC Code.
- Switch to Amazon Barcode (FNSKU):
- Go to your Manage Inventory tab.
- Choose “Change to Fulfilled by Amazon.”
- Select “Amazon Barcode” instead of “Manufacturer Barcode.”
- Generate and download your FNSKU label.
- Apply FNSKU Labels: Print and affix FNSKU barcodes to your product packaging before shipping to Amazon’s fulfillment centers.
The Risks of Sticking With UPC Codes
If you use a UPC Code as your barcode within Amazon, you might encounter issues like:
- Commingling Inventory: Your products could mix with items from other sellers using the same UPC. This could lead to quality issues or counterfeit concerns.
- Amazon Errors: Amazon may eventually require you to switch to FNSKU labels, causing delays and added expenses.
To avoid these challenges, make FNSKU codes your standard from the beginning.
Drive Amazon Sales With Expert Help
Navigating barcodes, inventory management, and listing optimization can be complex. Partnering with a trusted Amazon Consultant can make all the difference. At EHP Consulting Group, we specialize in helping sellers:
- Optimize Listings: Improve SEO to drive more traffic and conversions.
- Handle Barcodes: Ensure your products meet Amazon’s compliance requirements.
- Boost Advertising ROI: Work with our Amazon PPC Experts and Amazon Ads Experts to maximize your ad performance.
- Resolve Counterfeit Issues: Our Amazon Counterfeit Removal Experts can help protect your brand integrity.
For more tips on growing your Amazon business, check out our services at EHP Consulting Group.
External Resources
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Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between UPC Codes and FNSKU Codes can save you time, money, and headaches as an Amazon seller. While UPCs are essential for creating listings, using FNSKUs for product labeling ensures smoother operations within Amazon’s fulfillment network.
If you’re ready to scale your Amazon business and need expert help, contact EHP Consulting Group today. As the Florida Amazon Experts, we’re here to help you dominate the marketplace.
Learn more and take control of your Amazon success with EHP Consulting Group.
Written By: Joshua Hackett
Sponsored By: GS1
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ehpconsultinggroup.com
Phone: 925-293-3313
Date Written: November 30th 2024
