Understanding the Differences: GTIN vs UPC, EAN, and ISBN

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A GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) is a unique product identifier code embedded within a barcode that's required to sell items in stores or on e-commerce platforms like Amazon. These identification numbers help you manage inventory and ensure each product is uniquely identifiable in the global marketplace.

The Key Insight:
Technically, there is no difference between a GTIN vs UPC because they are one and the same. Likewise, UPC, EAN, and ISBN are all GTINs. That's because a GTIN is the number encoded into either a UPC, EAN, or ISBN barcode.

In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we'll clarify the relationship between GTIN vs UPC, explain what makes up each identifier type, show you how to purchase them, and cover how Amazon's FNSKU ties into the barcode system. Whether you're launching your first product or expanding to international markets, this guide provides everything you need to know about product identifiers.

Quick Answer:

There's no real difference between GTIN vs UPC—they're one and the same. A GTIN is the number encoded into a UPC, EAN, or ISBN barcode. Jump to understanding the types or learn how to purchase GTINs.

Understanding the Differences: GTIN vs UPC, EAN, and ISBN

Let's start with the most important concept: GTIN stands for Global Trade Item Number. More specifically, a GTIN is the series of numbers associated with a barcode. These codes are part of larger global data structures that help identify a company's unique products.

The Key Insight:

Technically, there is no difference between a GTIN vs UPC because they are one and the same. Likewise, UPC, EAN, and ISBN are all GTINs. That's because a GTIN is the number encoded into either a UPC, EAN, or ISBN barcode.

There are three main types of GTINs used in e-commerce:

• GTIN-12 (UPC): Used primarily in the United States and Canada

• GTIN-13 (EAN): Used globally, except in the US and Canada

• ISBN: Specifically for books and book-like products

Although each serves different purposes, all GTIN types are part of the GS1 System of International Standards, which means they're recognized globally and can facilitate international commerce.

GTIN-12 & UPC Code

UPC Structure Breakdown

A 12-digit UPC (Universal Product Code) is a GTIN embedded into a barcode. UPCs are part of the data structures used primarily in the United States and Canada. In 2025, UPCs remain the standard for most retail and e-commerce in North America.

Important Note:

If you have a UPC, you don't need to get a separate EAN because they work the same way. If you encounter a form requiring a 13-digit number, simply add a zero in front of your 12-digit UPC.

GTIN-13 & EAN (European Article Number)

An EAN (European Article Number) is a 13-digit GTIN used globally, except in the United States and Canada. Despite its name suggesting European use, EANs are actually the international standard for product identification worldwide.

Like a GTIN-12 or UPC, an EAN is structured with a company prefix, product number, and check digit. The main difference is that it has 13 digits instead of 12, which provides more capacity for global product identification.

🌍 International Expansion Tip:

If you're planning to expand to international Amazon marketplaces (UK, Germany, Japan, etc.), you'll use your same UPC/GTIN codes. Amazon's system recognizes both UPC and EAN formats globally.

Learn more about our Global Marketplace Expansion service.

ISBN for Books and Publications

An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is typically 10-13 digits long and embedded into a barcode. Unlike UPCs or EANs, an ISBN uniquely identifies books or book-like products such as:

• Physical books (hardcover, paperback)

• eBooks and digital publications

• Audiobooks

• Educational materials and textbooks

To obtain an ISBN in 2025, you'll need to register through your country's ISBN agency. In the United States, this is done through Bowker at myidentifiers.com. For international publishers, visit the International ISBN Agency to find your country's designated agency.

"For authors and publishers selling on Amazon, using proper ISBNs is crucial for discoverability and professionalism. Each format of your book (hardcover, paperback, eBook) requires its own unique ISBN."

— Lab 916 Content Team