Explore Our Product Launching Service – Learn More

In eCommerce today, especially on Amazon, it’s super important to identify products correctly. One big way to do this is with GTINs, which stands for Global Trade Item Numbers. Think of a GTIN as a unique sticker for a product — usually a barcode. It helps everyone recognize and track products everywhere. For sellers on Amazon, having a GTIN is great for keeping things real, making customers happywsz, & helping search lists work right. But what if you don’t have a GTIN? Well, that’s where Amazon’s GTIN exemption comes in!

What is GTIN & Why Does It Matter on Amazon?

GTINs are key for keeping product listings clear & straightforward. They help ensure that every product can be found no matter where you sell it. There are different types of GTINs, like UPC (Universal Product Code) and EAN (European Article Number), among others. Each type fits certain regions or kinds of products.

On Amazon, GTINs make sure the right item shows up when someone searches for it. For instance, if someone types in “shampoo” from a certain brand, Amazon looks at the GTIN to find that exact product. This means the info about the product — like pictures & reviews — stays correct everywhere it’s listed. Plus, it helps stop issues like duplicates or fake products that can harm both sellers & buyers.

If you don’t have a GTIN? Your products might fade into the background and lose sales. That’s why having one is usually needed when selling on Amazon. But sometimes sellers can’t get these codes — this is when applying for a GTIN exemption really matters.

When Do Sellers Need a GTIN Exemption?

Not every product needs or has a GTIN. Many small businesses or private label sellers create special products without UPCs or EANs. Getting a GTIN can cost money or just isn’t needed, especially if they don’t plan to sell many copies of that product. Also, handmade items often don’t come with these codes since they’re unique.

Here are some situations where sellers may want to look into getting a GTIN exemption:

  • Private Label Products: If you’re making your own branded items, you might not have a registered GTIN. For example: if you’re crafting your own skincare line without GS1 approval.
  • Handmade Items: Artists selling one-of-a-kind crafts usually don’t have barcodes since their products aren’t mass-produced.
  • Unbranded Products: Some sellers offer generic items without specific brand names — and guess what? They might not have a GTIN at all.
  • Parts or Accessories: If you’re selling parts that don’t come with a manufacturer’s barcode, applying for this exemption is possible too!

Getting this exemption means those sellers can list products on Amazon without worrying about standard barcodes like UPCs or EANs.

What is the GTIN Exemption on Amazon?

So what is this whole “GTIN exemption” thing anyway? It lets sellers list their stuff on Amazon without needing things like UPCs or EANs! Usually, Amazon wants each product to have its own special identifier so it can be matched with info like pictures and descriptions correctly across their platform. But if sellers can’t get these identifiers easily? That’s where being exempt helps!

This process works well for folks with no barcodes at all—like those making handmade goods or private label items! Moreover, many artisans who create custom artworks also find themselves not having standard identifiers.

Amazon offers this exemption for them based on some documented proof that shows you really own the brand or need it listed without the typical barcodes.

Sellers can apply if:

  • Their items lack any form of GTIN (like private label or handmade stuff).
  • They are selling parts which do not come with any barcode.
  • They’re in categories where barcodes just aren’t common.

Who Can Apply for GTIN Exemption?

GTIN exemptions exist mainly for those without registered Global Trade Item Numbers (like UPCs and EANs) linked to their goods! So even though most items sold here need these special numbers, some sellers can ask to list their things minus them.

Eligibility Requirements for GTIN Exemption

To get this pass, a seller must show that their item doesn’t already have an existing registered identifier! You also need to prove your item is authentic — could be through ownership documentation or clear proof of what you’re trying to sell! Sometimes they’ll ask quite simply for images or invoices during applying.

Moreover, your product should fit into certain groups where barcodes aren’t typically given out — such as custom creations — or else prove that acquiring such identifiers doesn’t really make sense!

Steps to Apply for GTIN Exemption on Amazon

Step 1: Visit Seller Central

Log into your Seller Central account! Head over to “Inventory” then click “Add a Product.” After that, look out for “Apply for a GTIN Exemption” option!

Step 2: Choose Your Product Category & Brand

You’ll have to pick the right category for your item (like home goods or clothing). If it’s branded stuff choose your brand; if it’s not branded go with “Generic.”

Step 3: Provide Proof

Next up: give proof showing your product’s authenticity! This could mean sending pictures of the item itself (with no codes visible!), invoices from suppliers & letters from manufacturers!

Step 4: Double Check Everything Before You Submit!

Be sure all details are spot-on! Review everything so as not to miss any important part before hitting submit! Generally speaking once it’s sent off; expect feedback within days about approval status via email!

Common Mistakes When Applying

One common mistake? Choosing the wrong category! If it’s wrong then likely rejection awaits so make sure you check twice!

Another issue could arise from not providing enough required documents; blurry images won’t cut it either! All uploaded files must be clear as day showing everything from angles visible too.

Also be careful not to choose an incorrect brand name accidentally – always stick with “Generic” when needed!

Trying applying while forgetting clarity around items’ barcodes leads straight toward denial again – ensure no UPC exists beforehand too!

Misreading Amazon guidelines sometimes happens also—it’s super crucial reviewing importance first related closely toward your type of listing before jumping in blindly!

Avoid those blunders above; ensure smooth sailing through getting your exemption granted timely without hiccups along the way!

What Happens After You Get Your Approval?

After receiving approval? That’s awesome! You get started listing products—without worrying about UPCs/EANs ever again!! This freedom feels especially beneficial while handling private-label goods…they can take off running now!!

How to List Without A GTIN

To bring your new prized addition into view; just head back towards the ‘Inventory’ section within Seller Central; hit ‘Add A Product,’ and instead input any sort of number—choose the category granted during exempt journey instead which’ll pave the road forward!

Fill in necessary details like relevant description plus chosen brand (‘Generic’ counts) as well as images attached directly representing truly accurate information & clear-cut facts keeping shoppers inclined toward clicking purchase confirmations later down the line!

Finish everything smoothly by hitting “Submit,” then watch eagerly…once live upon marketplace there won’t be any tags present indicating missed barcode opportunities ahead! Happy selling!!

Post-Exemption Requirements and Restrictions

So, you’ve got a GTIN exemption! That’s great—it means you can list your products without a barcode. But don’t forget, there are still some important to consider:

Accuracy of Product Information: Even without a GTIN, your product details need to be spot on. Things like titles, images, and descriptions must still follow Amazon’s rules.

Brand Consistency: If you received your exemption for a certain brand, stick to that name in your listings. And if your item doesn’t have a brand, just choose “Generic.” Simple, right?

Category Restrictions: The exemption usually applies to just one category. If you want to sell items in different categories, you might have to apply for more exemptions.

By keeping these tips in mind, sellers can stay on the right side of Amazon’s policies and list their products successfully with that GTIN exemption!


FAQs on GTIN Exemption

  1. How long does the GTIN exemption last?Usually, GTIN exemptions last forever for the product and category you applied for. Once you’re approved, there’s no need to apply again unless you change products or categories.
  2. Can I sell products in multiple categories with one exemption?Nope! GTIN exemptions are for specific categories only. If you want to sell in different ones, you’ll need to get a separate exemption for each.
  3. Can I apply for a GTIN exemption for branded products?Yes! But only if you own the brand or you’re the manufacturer. Also, the product shouldn’t already have its own GTIN. You will need to show some documents to prove it.
  4. Can I apply for a GTIN exemption for unbranded or generic products?Sure thing! You can totally apply for a GTIN exemption for those types of products—just select “Generic” when filling out the form.
  5. What documentation do I need to apply for a GTIN exemption?You’ll need proof like product images, invoices, or even a letter from the manufacturer that shows there’s no barcode and confirms the product isn’t registered with a GTIN.
  6. How long does it take to get a GTIN exemption approved?It normally takes just a few days. Amazon will review your application and let you know with an email once they make their decision.
  7. Can I use one GTIN exemption for multiple products?Nope! Each GTIN exemption is specific to individual products. If they don’t share the same brand and category, you’ll have to get different exemptions for each one.

Get A Free Consultation Today