Product identifiers like GTIN and UPC are crucial elements of selling on Amazon. They help sellers track inventory, consolidate sales, and monitor logistics. Amazon heavily relies on GTINs/UPCs to organize and categorize products. This ensures efficient search and discovery for customers.
One of the questions sellers ask themselves is, “Do I need a UPC to sell on Amazon?” Certain products, such as custom, handmade, and unbranded products, don’t require GTINs/UPCs to be listed on Amazon.
In fact, GTIN/UPC exemption helps you save save time and resources you would use to acquire the GTIN/UPC. Additionally, GTIN and UPC exemption also lets you list a wider range of products and makes it easier to expand your product line.
Before we dive into the specifics of GTIN exemptions, let’s clarify what these terms mean.
- GTIN (Global Trade Item Number): A unique identifier assigned to trade items.
- UPC (Universal Product Code): A specific type of GTIN used primarily in North America.
Eligibility for GTIN Exemption Amazon
Let’s break down the eligibility for GTIN exemption on Amazon.
Who Can Apply for GTIN Exemption?
To be eligible for a GTIN exemption on Amazon, you typically need to fall into one of these categories:
Private Label Sellers
Selling under an Amazon business model like private label where you create your own brand makes you eligible for a GTIN exemption. You must be enrolled in Amazon’s Brand Registry program to verify your brand ownership and protect your intellectual property.
Handmade Product Sellers
This applies to sellers who create handmade, artisanal products, such as jewelry, crafts, or home goods. Amazon requires these products to be handmade by you or by individuals you employ or contract with.
Sellers of Unique or Custom Products
Your products have unique characteristics or are customized to specific customer requests. For a product to be considered unique or custom, it shouldn’t fit neatly into existing standard product categories.
Sellers of Brand Products without a UPC
Amazon doesn’t require all brands to have UPC for their products. If you’re reselling products from brands that don’t require a UPC, you can apply for GTIN exemption for Amazon sellers with the brand’s permission.
Sellers of Product Parts without a GTIN
Some product parts, like mobile accessories and car parts, don’t have a GTIN. You’re eligible for a GTIN exemption from Amazon if you sell these product parts.
Sellers of Bundled Packs
If you want to bundle and sell your products as a pack, you can apply for an Amazon seller GTIN exemption. Bundled packs can be a bundle of any product, from a pack of socks to a bundle of pants and belts.
Products that Qualify for GTIN Exemption on Amazon
While the above categories provide a general overview, the specific eligibility of your products will depend on Amazon’s guidelines and the product category you’ve chosen.
Some common product types that may qualify for an Amazon seller GTIN exemption include:
- Customized Apparel: T-shirts, hats, or other clothing items with personalized designs or logos.
- Handmade Crafts: Items like pottery, paintings, or knitted goods.
- 3D-Printed Products: Objects created using 3D printing technology.
- Handcrafted Jewelry: Unique jewelry pieces made by artisans.
Requirements for GTIN Exemption for Amazon sellers
It’s important to note that even if your product category is eligible for a GTIN exemption, Amazon reserves the right to request a GTIN at any time.
It’s always best to be prepared to provide a GTIN if necessary. To successfully obtain a GTIN exemption on Amazon, you’ll need to meet the following Amazon requirements:
Brand Registry Enrollment (for Private Label Sellers)
Amazon requires private label sellers to enroll in the Brand Registry to secure GTIN exemptions. Enrolling in the Amazon Brand Registry involves providing documentation to verify your brand ownership, and it’s crucial for protecting your brand.
Accurate Product Categorization
Your product should be in a product category that is eligible for GTIN exemption on Amazon. (I mentioned these categories earlier.) An incorrect category can lead to exemption rejection.
Detailed Product Information
Before applying for a GTIN exemption, Amazon requires you to provide product details such as:
- Product brand
- Product category
- A letter of approval from the brand owner or manufacturer where it applies
- At least two images of the product and packaging to show it doesn’t have a UPC
Compliance with Amazon’s Policies
GTIN exemption, and selling on Amazon in general, requires you to adhere to all of Amazon’s selling policies, including those related to product quality, safety, and shipping. Avoid any practices leading to account suspension or removal of your listings.
How to Apply for GTIN Exemption on Amazon
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of applying for a GTIN exemption on Amazon.
Step 1: Log into Seller Central
Sign into your Seller Central account and search for “Apply for GTIN exemption” using the Seller Central search function.
You will be brought to a page where you must fill in the product category and brand. Select your product category and enter the product brand to see if the product is eligible for an Amazon seller GTIN exemption. Enter “Generic” in the Brand/Publisher field if you’re selling unbranded items. Note that your listing will say the product is sold “by Generic” under the product title.
Step 2: Check for Amazon Seller GTIN Exemption Eligibility
You might be automatically approved for GTIN exemption on Amazon for unbranded items when you click on Check for eligibility. You will see a green check mark under Status if you’re approved.
For branded items, Amazon may require you to send proof that your product doesn’t have a barcode and that you have approval from the brand to sell their items without a UPC.
Amazon will ask if you have a supporting letter from the manufacturer. If you’re selling handmade or private label products, select No.
The next piece of evidence Amazon requires is at least two images from different angles to show that you don’t have barcodes on the product and packaging. The brand name should be clearly visible on both the product and packaging images.
Step 3: Submit Your GTIN Exemption Request
Amazon typically takes a few hours to get back to you when you submit your request, but it can sometimes take up to 48 hours before you hear back from them. Once Amazon reviews your request, they’ll email you their verdict — a denial or an approval.
Why Your Amazon Seller GTIN Exemption Request Might Be Rejected
Here are some common reasons why Amazon might reject your GTIN exemption application:
Incorrect Product Category Selection
Choosing the wrong or inappropriate product category can confuse Amazon’s algorithms and lead to a denial of your GTIN request. To avoid this, ensure you carefully review Amazon’s category tree and select the most accurate category for your product. If you’re unsure, consult Amazon’s seller support or forums for guidance.
Insufficient Product Information
Amazon’s ability to understand and categorize your product can be hindered when you enter incomplete product details. You must provide detailed and accurate product information for Amazon to give an accurate assessment of your product’s eligibility for GTIN exemption on Amazon.
Poor-Quality Images
If you submit low-resolution, blurry, or poorly lit product images, you will be lowering the chances of getting your Amazon seller GTIN exemption request approved. You must use high-quality product images that clearly showcase your product from multiple angles and ensure the brand name is clearly visible. Your images also need to show that there are no barcodes on the product and packaging.
Lack of Brand Registry Enrollment (for Private Label Sellers)
If you’re a private label seller, Brand Registry enrollment is crucial for verifying your brand ownership and securing GTIN exemptions on Amazon. Complete the Brand Registry enrollment process by providing the necessary documentation, such as trademark registrations or brand ownership certificates.
Non-Compliance with Amazon’s Policies
Violating Amazon’s selling policies, such as those related to product safety, labeling, or prohibited items, can lead to account restrictions and exemption rejections. Stay up-to-date with Amazon’s latest policies and guidelines. Avoid any practices that could compromise your account health.
How to Reapply for GTIN Exemption
If Amazon denies your GTIN exemption application the first time, you can always reapply. Reapplying for a GTIN exemption on Amazon after a rejection requires a careful approach to ensure you address any issues that led to the initial denial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you successfully reapply:
Review the Rejection Reason
Understanding the reasons for the rejection is the first step to reapplying for an Amazon seller GTIN exemption. Carefully read Amazon’s rejection email or notification, as it typically outlines why your application was denied.
Common reasons include inaccurate brand information, category mismatches, or insufficient supporting documents. Identify any documentation or information that Amazon flagged as insufficient so you can address it directly in your reapplication.
Correct and Update Documentation
If your rejection was due to brand issues, ensure your brand name in the application matches Amazon’s exact spelling, capitalization, and punctuation for that brand.
Remember to also ensure there’s a category match so that the product category and subcategory you select align with Amazon’s eligible categories for GTIN and UPC exemption. Lastly, Provide clear authorization letters or other documents Amazon requested.
Check Amazon’s GTIN Exemption Eligibility List
Amazon may change eligibility requirements at their own discretion, so you need to ensure your brand and category for your product are still eligible for an Amazon seller GTIN exemption.
Adjust Your Application Details
Adjust your application details so that your brand and product name are consistent across all sections of the application and match any supporting documentation. Submit high-quality images and any other product details Amazon requires.
Reapply with the Correct Process
If your previous application for GTIN and UPC exemption on Amazon was rejected because of an incorrect application process, ensure you don’t repeat the same mistake. Carefully follow the steps I outlined in this blog post to apply for a GTIN exemption.
Follow Up and Monitor the Status
After reapplying, check your Amazon Seller Central notifications for any updates or further requirements. It can take a few days to receive a response, so monitor your application status in the “Manage Your Case” section to ensure you don’t miss any follow-up requests.
Consider Support if Needed
If you’re rejected again, consider reaching out to Amazon Seller Support for clarification. They can provide insights on why your application may not have met the criteria and help you prepare a more successful application.
Best Practices for Listing Products with GTIN Exemption on Amazon
When listing Amazon products with a GTIN exemption, it’s essential to follow specific practices to create great listings and ensure compliance with Amazon’s policies.
Accurate Brand and Category Selection
When creating your listing, ensure the brand and category you select during the Amazon seller GTIN exemption application matches your listing. A mismatch of these details may lead to listing suppressions.
Craft Comprehensive Product Title and Description
Proper listing optimization involves creating clear titles with your primary keyword, brand name, and one or two key features. Use your description and bullet points to convey key product information, like the product features and benefits.
Add High-Quality Product Images
Since GTIN-exempt products often lack mainstream branding, good images can help boost buyer confidence and highlight unique product features or differentiators.
After getting your Amazon seller GTIN exemption, use clear, high-resolution images with white backgrounds in your listing. Also, showcase the product from multiple angles. Consider Amazon’s image guidelines when adding images to your listing.
Optimize for SKU and Product Identifiers
Since you won’t be using GTIN, you might want to use custom SKUs that are easy to identify and track, especially if you have an Amazon seller GTIN exemption for multiple listings. A well-organized SKU system helps streamline your inventory and track listings for analytics, order fulfillment, and performance metrics.
Constantly Monitor Listing Health and Compliance
Regularly check the listing for errors, compliance flags, or suppressed statuses. Amazon occasionally updates policies, so staying informed will help you avoid unnecessary disruptions.
Wrapping Up
Understanding GTIN exemptions on Amazon is essential for brands and resellers. The process of getting a GTIN exemption may seem confusing. However, with the GTIN exemption, you save on the cost of acquiring barcodes and simplify your listing process.
If you’re stuck trying to get an Amazon seller GTIN exemption, this guide will give you insight into the process you need to follow to get approved. When you get your GTIN exemption and start selling your product, My Real Profit analytics tools will help you monitor and understand your key Amazon metrics.
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