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What information do I need before listing products on Amazon?
Joelle
Client Success Manager at Amersify
Introduction
Listing a product on Amazon isn’t just about uploading a photo and a price.
Amazon has strict listing requirements, and missing even one small detail — like a barcode or compliance certificate — can cause delays or suspensions.
Before you hit “Add Product”, make sure you have every piece of information ready.
This guide outlines the essentials every brand should prepare before listing on Amazon — saving you days of troubleshooting later.
1. Your Product Identifiers (GTIN, EAN, or UPC)
Amazon requires every product to have a unique product identifier. This helps them track listings, prevent duplicates, and maintain catalogue accuracy.
Accepted identifiers include:
EAN (European Article Number) – Used in the UK and EU.
UPC (Universal Product Code) – Common in the US.
GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) – Umbrella term for both.
💡 Amersify Tip: Always buy barcodes directly from GS1 UK (gs1uk.org).
Third-party barcode resellers are a shortcut to listing suppression or rejection — Amazon verifies codes against the GS1 database.
If you manufacture your own products and don’t have barcodes, you can apply for a GTIN exemption through Seller Central.
2. Accurate Product Information
Before creating your listing, make sure you have the following details finalised:
Product title – 150–200 characters, descriptive and keyword-optimised.
Brand name – Must match your registered trademark (for Brand Registry).
Manufacturer – Especially important for compliance categories.
Product type/category – Correctly classified for search visibility.
Key features (bullet points) – Highlight benefits and USPs clearly.
Product description – Rich, keyword-driven copy that reads naturally.
💡 Amersify Tip: Write for humans first, algorithms second. Keyword stuffing damages conversions and can trigger Amazon’s spam filters.
3. Product Images
Amazon is image-driven — poor visuals can destroy conversion rates. Prepare:
Main image: White background, product only, 1,000 x 1,000 pixels minimum.
Additional images: Lifestyle shots, packaging, close-ups, and size references.
Format: JPEG or PNG, sRGB colour mode.
Resolution: Minimum 72 dpi, ideally 300 dpi for clarity.
💡 Amersify Tip: Include at least six images per product — Amazon’s data shows higher engagement when listings have more visuals.
4. SKU and Inventory Structure
Your SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) is your internal ID for each product.
It helps with stock tracking, FBA planning, and report analysis.
When creating SKUs:
Use a logical naming format (e.g.,
BRAND-PRODUCT-COLOUR-SIZE).Keep SKUs consistent across all systems — Amazon, warehouse, ERP, etc.
Avoid changing SKUs after launch; it breaks reporting continuity.
💡 Amersify Tip: If you’re selling variations (like sizes or colours), plan parent-child relationships before listing. This makes the product page cleaner and improves the shopper experience.
5. Pricing and Offer Details
Decide your pricing strategy before creating listings.
You’ll need to define:
Item price: Retail selling price (VAT inclusive).
Sale price (if applicable): Temporary discount.
Quantity per pack: Especially for bundles or multi-packs.
Shipping settings: Free, fixed-rate, or fulfilled by Amazon (FBA).
💡 Amersify Tip: If using FBA, include FBA fees and referral fees in your margin calculation. Don’t list blindly — many sellers discover their “best-selling” SKU is actually losing money after fees.
6. Compliance Documents and Product Safety
Depending on your category, Amazon may require additional documentation before listing approval:
Safety data sheets (SDS) – For cosmetics, batteries, or chemicals.
Certificates of conformity (CE or UKCA) – For electronics, toys, or food-contact products.
Test reports – For child safety or product standards compliance.
Ingredient lists / nutritional info – For food and supplements.
Proof of brand ownership – Trademark certificate or authorisation letter.
💡 Amersify Tip: Upload compliance documents before Amazon asks for them. Proactive uploads speed up approvals dramatically.
7. Packaging and Labelling Information
You’ll need to define:
Package dimensions and weight (accurate for FBA cost calculations).
Barcode placement (GTIN or FNSKU label).
Packaging material (Amazon requires recyclable or sustainable packaging for some categories).
💡 Amersify Tip: Always double-check packaging meets FBA inbound requirements if you plan to use Fulfilment by Amazon. Incorrect labelling can lead to stock rejection at the warehouse.
8. Brand Registry Details (If Applicable)
If you’re a brand owner, have your Brand Registry approval ready before listing. You’ll need:
Your registered trademark.
Proof of ownership (via your Seller Central account).
High-resolution logo and brand assets.
This unlocks:
A+ Content
Brand Storefront
Sponsored Brand Ads
Counterfeit protection tools
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I list a product without barcodes?
Only if you have a valid GTIN exemption approved by Amazon.
Do I need to register for Brand Registry before listing?
No, but it’s highly recommended — it gives you control over content and brand protection.
What happens if I list without compliance documents?
Amazon may suppress your listing, request documents, or block the ASIN entirely.
How long does Amazon take to approve listings?
Most go live instantly, but restricted categories or new brands can take 24–72 hours for review.
Related Articles
How to Set Up an Amazon Seller Central Account Correctly
How to Register for Amazon Brand Registry
How to Optimise Your Amazon Product Listings for SEO
Summary
Preparing your information before listing saves enormous time and frustration.
You’ll need valid barcodes, complete product details, professional images, and all compliance documents ready.
Start with accurate data, stay within Amazon’s listing rules, and think like a customer — clear titles, strong images, and honest copy always outperform keyword-stuffed listings.
Once your listing is live, monitor performance and refine regularly. Getting the basics right is what separates brands that survive on Amazon from those that scale profitably.
