Last Updated on by Dan S
Originally Published September 19, 2021.

A Universal Product Code (UPC) is essential for identifying and tracking products in your Shopify store, especially if you plan to expand your sales channels to platforms like Amazon.

A UPC consists of a machine-readable barcode and a 12-digit number, making it a universal identifier for products. But how can you obtain UPCs for your Shopify products?

Let’s explore the options available to you.

UPC codes

Why Shopify Merchants Need UPC Codes

1. Expanding Sales Channels: To sell on platforms like Amazon, eBay, and other major marketplaces, having a UPC is often a requirement. Amazon verifies UPCs against the GS1 database to ensure authenticity, making legitimate codes essential for listing products.

2. Inventory Management: UPCs help in efficiently managing inventory, reducing errors in product identification, and streamlining stock management processes across multiple channels.

3. Enhancing Credibility: Having UPCs can enhance the credibility of your store, as it shows that your products are officially recognized and trackable. Proper UPCs link your products directly to your brand.

4. Global Reach: UPCs are recognized internationally, allowing you to participate in global supply chains and reach a wider audience through both online marketplaces and physical retail locations.

5. Compliance: Many retail partners and online marketplaces require UPCs for compliance and standardization. As of 2025, major platforms are increasingly strict about requiring GS1-registered codes.

Obtaining UPC Codes for Shopify

To obtain UPC codes for your Shopify products, you can sign up with GS1, the global standards organization responsible for generating UPCs.

Features of GS1:

  • Trusted Source: GS1 codes authenticate your company as the brand owner and are verified by Amazon and other major marketplaces.
  • Single UPC Option: GS1 now offers individual UPC codes starting at $30 with no annual renewal fee, making it more accessible for small businesses.
  • Company Prefix for Growth: For businesses with multiple products, GS1 Company Prefixes allow you to generate your own UPCs and scale as needed.
  • Compatibility: GS1 UPCs are valid for Shopify and other major marketplaces including Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Google Shopping.
  • International Recognition: GS1 UPCs work globally, integrating seamlessly into any supply chain.
  • Free Support: GS1 offers support through online channels and phone to help you manage your barcodes.

Important Note: Amazon and many other marketplaces now strictly verify UPCs against the GS1 database. Using third-party reseller UPCs can result in listing suppression or account suspension, so it’s strongly recommended to obtain codes directly from GS1.

Shopify Apps for UPC Codes

For managing UPCs in your Shopify store, several apps can help you generate, assign, and organize barcodes efficiently:

Recommended Shopify UPC Apps:

  • MS Barcode Labels & Generator: A “Built for Shopify” app that generates unlimited barcodes and SKUs in multiple formats (GTIN, UPC, EAN). Features customizable label printing and integrates with Shopify’s Stocky app.
  • GS1 Assistant: Perfect if you already have a GS1 Company Prefix. This app assigns UPC/EAN codes from your prefix directly to product variants, ensures no duplicates, and simplifies GS1 synchronization.
  • AR: Buy GTINs/UPC/EAN Barcodes: Offers non-brand-registered GTINs starting from $0.01-$0.28 per code. Note: These codes work for Google Shopping but may not be accepted by Amazon or other marketplaces requiring brand-registered UPCs.

Important Considerations:

  • For Amazon Sellers: If you plan to sell on Amazon, you must use GS1-registered UPCs linked to your brand. Non-registered codes from bulk suppliers will likely be rejected.
  • For Internal Use: If you only need barcodes for inventory management within your Shopify store, you can use Shopify’s free barcode generator tool.
  • Cost-Effective Options: For businesses just starting out with one or a few products, GS1’s single UPC option at $30 is now the most affordable legitimate choice.

Conclusion

For Shopify merchants looking to expand their reach and streamline their inventory management, obtaining UPC codes is essential. While GS1 offers the most reliable and globally recognized solution, it’s now more accessible than ever with single UPCs available for just $30 with no annual fees.

If you’re selling on Amazon or other major marketplaces, investing in legitimate GS1 UPCs is crucial. As of 2025, platforms are increasingly strict about verifying UPCs against the GS1 database, and using non-registered codes can result in listing issues or account suspension.

For businesses that only need barcodes for internal inventory management or Google Shopping, alternative apps like MS Barcode Labels & Generator or AR UPC Codes can provide cost-effective solutions. However, always verify marketplace requirements before choosing your UPC source.

By securing proper UPCs, you can ensure compliance, enhance credibility, and seamlessly integrate your products into global marketplaces. Whether you choose GS1 directly or use Shopify apps to manage your codes, having UPCs will significantly benefit your business operations and growth.