Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is a great way for sellers to streamline order fulfillment and reach customers worldwide. Ensuring inventory is labeled and prepped correctly is crucial for an untroubled process. One of the most important steps of FBA preparation is understanding barcode types and requirements. This guide will walk through the different types of barcodes and their meaning.
What Are Barcodes?
Barcodes are unique product identifiers that help Amazon track inventory throughout the fulfillment process. They play an important role in ensuring smooth workflow at the fulfillment center and attributing sales correctly to the seller.
Every unit sent to an Amazon fulfillment center requires barcodes. Amazon uses three types of barcodes:
Manufacturer Barcodes (UPC, EAN, JAN, ISBN)
Manufacturer barcodes are Amazon’s default tracking method. This type of barcode will track inventory through the fulfillment process unless the seller changes the barcode setting. These barcodes are assigned by manufacturers and can be found on most retail products.
If multiple sellers offer the same product with an identical manufacturer barcode, Amazon may fulfill orders using inventory stored closest to the customer.
Amazon Barcodes (FNSKU)
Amazon barcodes, also known as Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Units (FNSKUs) are specific to an individual seller. Amazon barcodes ensure that only the seller’s inventory is used to fulfill their orders.
Amazon barcodes are required for products that:
- Are not tracked using manufacturer barcode
- Are in used condition
- Do not have scannable manufacturer barcode (UPC, EAN, JAN, ISBN)
To use Amazon barcodes, sellers must print and apply them to each unit before sending inventory to Amazon’s warehouse.
Transparency Barcodes
Transparency barcodes are part of Amazon’s anti-counterfeiting program and they provide item-level authentication. Transparency barcodes help protect brands and customers from counterfeit products by verifying product authenticity.
Key elements of transparency barcodes:
- They are applied as a sticker label and they include a unique “T” logo.
- They must not be covered or placed over any other label.
- Customers can scan transparency codes using the Amazon Shopping app to verify authenticity.
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How to label Products for FBA
Proper labeling ensures that products are easily scannable and compliant with Amazon’s FBA requirements.
Printing and Applying Amazon Barcodes
If sellers choose to print and apply Amazon barcodes themselves, they should follow these steps:
- Use correctly sized blank mailing labels.
- Print using a laser printer at a resolution of at least 300 DPI.
- Use black ink on a non-reflective, adhesive-backed label.
- Ensure labels are at least 1-2 inches tall and 2-3 inches wide.
Labeling Quick Tips
- Labels should include a scannable barcode, an FNSKU number, the product title, and product condition (New or Used).
- Ensure the product title and condition match the corresponding unit.
- Generate a packing list to match FNSKUs with the correct products.
- Labels must be clear and crisp to avoid scanning issues.
- Avoid damaged or photocopied labels, as Amazon does not accept them.
- Labels must be placed on a smooth, flat surface of the product, avoiding edges, corners, or curves
Why Proper Barcode Labeling Matters
Incorrect or missing labels can lead to delays, additional fees, or even inventory being rejected by Amazon. With proper labeling, sellers are ensuring faster check-in and processing at the Amazon Fulfillment Centres, also preventing inventory mix-ups and reducing the risk of lost units. By taking time to correctly apply barcodes and follow Amazon’s FBA preparation guidelines, sellers can ensure an efficient fulfillment process.
Final Thoughts
Understanding and following barcode labeling preparation is crucial for any FBA seller who is looking to avoid issues at the Amazon warehouse. By knowing the difference between barcode types and following labeling guidelines errors can be prevented, and delays reduced.
Whether new to FBA or an experienced seller optimizing their process, adhering to Amazon’s barcode and labeling requirements helps achieve a seamless fulfillment process.