Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) exemptions aren’t available for brands that already have GS1-approved barcodes on their products. Even if you have a GTIN exemption for a certain category, you won’t be able to list one of these branded products without a product ID.

Before you request a GTIN exemption, make sure:

• The brand or publisher name entered during the application process is an exact match to the brand or publisher name on the product or packaging of the product.

• Images should be real-world pictures of the products, Not computer generated, and free of digital enhancements.

• Product pictures should be auditable and not blurry or truncated. The text in the images must be legible.

• Branding or publisher must be permanently affixed on the packaging or printed on the product.

• Products should not have a GS1-approved barcode or ISBN available on the product or packaging of the product.

Remember:

• After you have applied for a GTIN exemption, check the status in your case log.

• Once you receive a GTIN exemption, wait 30 minutes before adding your product in the same way you would while listing with a GTIN.

• Category-level approvals may be required in addition to GTIN exemption approvals. If you do not have this approval already, go to Overview of categories for information.

• For the exemption to work, enter the Category and Brand/Publisher name exactly as they appear in your exemption approval notice. If you use a different case or insert additional characters or spaces, the system will not recognize your exemption.

• After approval, leave Product ID and Product ID Type columns blank.

For step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a GTIN extension, including uploading your product images and adding products after you receive a GTIN extension, click here.