GS1 vs Non-GS1 Barcodes: What Amazon Sellers Must Know

Amazon has specific requirements about barcode types. This article explains the critical difference between GS1 and non-GS1 barcodes, and why using the wrong type can get your listing suppressed.

What is the Difference Between GS1 and Non-GS1 Barcodes?

A GS1 barcode is a barcode whose number was issued through the GS1 global registry. The number is traceable to a specific company (or its authorized licensee), and it is verifiable in the GS1 database.

A non-GS1 barcode is a barcode image generated by software that uses an arbitrary number — not registered in any global database. While it may look identical to a GS1 barcode and even scan correctly, its number is not traceable or verifiable.

Amazon's Policy on GS1 Barcodes

Amazon's product listing requirements state that for most categories, products must use GTINs that are issued through the GS1 system. Amazon periodically checks GTINs against the GS1 database and flags listings that use unregistered numbers.

If your product uses a non-GS1 barcode and Amazon flags it, the consequences can include:

How Amazon Detects Non-GS1 Barcodes

Amazon has systems that cross-reference GTINs submitted by sellers against GS1's global product database. If a GTIN is not found in the GS1 registry, or if the same GTIN appears in multiple unrelated listings (a sign of recycled or fake barcodes), Amazon's system flags the listing.

This cross-referencing happens both at listing creation and on an ongoing basis as Amazon audits its catalog.

What Happens to Listings with Invalid GTINs?

Amazon's standard response to invalid GTINs includes:

Why GS1 Barcodes from gs1upc.shop Are Safe for Amazon

All barcodes sold through gs1upc.shop are GS1-registered numbers. This means:

The Risk of Buying Cheap Barcodes from Unknown Sources

Some sellers purchase barcodes from marketplaces like eBay or Fiverr at very low prices. These barcodes are often recycled numbers (used on products that no longer exist), generated numbers (not registered in any database), or numbers assigned to a different company entirely.

Using such barcodes on Amazon creates a real risk of listing suppression and policy violation. The small savings are not worth the potential loss of your listings and seller reputation.

How to Verify a Barcode is GS1-Registered

You can verify any barcode number at the GS1 Company Database (https://www.gs1.org/services/verified-by-gs1). Enter the barcode number and the database will show you whether it is registered and who it belongs to.

All barcodes from gs1upc.shop will pass this verification check.

Buy Amazon-safe, GS1-certified barcodes at gs1upc.shop. No risk of listing suppression, instant delivery, certificate included.

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