Do I Have to Have a Barcode to Sell My Product on a Website?

• Websites and online retailers set their own rules for product identification.
• Some platforms require GTINs (UPC or EAN), while others allow internal SKUs instead.
• If you sell only through your own website, you generally do not need GTINs unless integrating with marketplaces.
• Using GS1-compliant barcodes can improve listing accuracy and compatibility if you expand later.

You only need a barcode if the retailer or website requires it. Each online store manages inventory differently. Some platforms prefer to generate their own internal identifiers (SKUs), while others require globally recognized GTINs such as UPCs or EANs.

Do I need GTINs for my own website?

If you operate your own website and do not plan to sell your products through other retailers or marketplaces, you typically do not need GTINs. However, many sellers choose to use them anyway for future compatibility or to keep product identification consistent across channels.