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Logistics Reference

FNSKU vs UPC vs EAN: Which Barcode Do You Need?

Quick answers for real packing situations. Understand what each code is, where it’s scanned, and what Amazon FBA normally expects, without a 2,000-word essay.

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Amazon-specific

FNSKU

Use this when you want Amazon to track units as your inventory in their fulfilment centres.

Retail standard

UPC

Common in North America. Often used to create listings, but may be covered by an FNSKU label for FBA prep.

Retail standard

EAN

Common in the UK/EU. Same job as UPC within the GTIN system, just a different format.

The comparison table

If you only read one section, make it this one.

Feature FNSKU UPC EAN
Purpose Seller-specific tracking for Amazon workflows. Global trade ID for retail and logistics (part of GTIN). Global trade ID for retail and logistics (part of GTIN).
Where it’s scanned Amazon fulfilment centres and Amazon processes. Retail POS, warehouses, carriers, supply chain. Retail POS, warehouses, carriers, supply chain.
Who provides it Amazon (via Seller Central when using Amazon barcodes). Typically GS1 (assigned to a company/product). Typically GS1 (assigned to a company/product).
Does it expire? No expiry by default (but can change with listing/labelling settings). Not “expiring”, but must remain properly assigned/owned. Not “expiring”, but must remain properly assigned/owned.
Commingling Designed for seller-specific tracking (helps avoid commingling). May be eligible for commingling if enabled (policy/category dependent). May be eligible for commingling if enabled (policy/category dependent).
Label placement Applied over any scannable retail barcode on the unit. Usually printed on product packaging. Usually printed on product packaging.
Quick truth: “GTIN” isn’t a separate label you stick on a unit. It’s the umbrella term that includes UPC and EAN.

Quick deep dives

Short, practical explanations you can actually use.

FNSKU

  • Amazon-unique barcode linked to a seller offer.
  • Used for tighter unit tracking inside FBA.
  • Common for private label and controlled inventory routes.

UPC

  • Retail barcode format common in North America.
  • Usually assigned through GS1 to identify products globally.
  • Often used for catalogue identity, then covered for FBA unit labelling.

EAN

  • Retail barcode format common in UK/EU.
  • Also part of GTIN, same role as UPC.
  • Important for catalogue consistency across markets.

Which one am I?

A simple decision path you can follow without guessing.

Q1: Are you sending units into Amazon FBA?

If yes, you usually want Amazon to scan a seller-specific label on the unit.

Q2: Are you the brand owner (private label / Brand Registry path)?

If yes, you’ll likely manage UPC/EAN (GTIN) for catalogue identity, then use FNSKU labels for FBA unit tracking.

Typical result: Use FNSKU on the unit for FBA, keep UPC/EAN for catalogue and retail identity.

Still unsure? Don’t guess. Run the Label Finder and it’ll push you toward the safe route.

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