What is an ASIN Number?
ASIN stands for Amazon Standard Identification Number, a unique identifier assigned to every product within Amazon’s catalog. It’s Amazon’s way of organizing and tracking products, ensuring that no two items share the same code.
Key Features of an ASIN Number:
- Unique Identifier: Each ASIN is unique to one product variation (e.g., color, size, model).
- Platform-Specific: ASINs are exclusive to Amazon’s marketplace and cannot be used on other platforms.
- Efficient Tracking: ASINs streamline inventory management and help buyers and sellers locate products quickly.
Example: A blue leather wallet and a black leather wallet may have different ASINs despite being variations of the same product.
Why Are ASIN Numbers Important for Amazon Sellers?
For Amazon FBA sellers, ASIN numbers are critical for managing inventory, ensuring accurate product listings, and improving order fulfillment. They help sellers:
- Track Inventory: Each ASIN corresponds to a specific product, making inventory tracking more efficient.
- Optimize Search Visibility: Products with accurate ASINs have better chances of appearing in relevant search results.
- Simplify Fulfillment: ASINs ensure that Amazon’s fulfillment centers can correctly identify, store, and ship products.
Pro Tip: Always verify that the ASIN assigned to your product corresponds to its exact specifications (e.g., size, color, model).
How to Get an ASIN Number on Amazon
There are two main ways to obtain an ASIN number, depending on whether your product already exists on Amazon or is new to the platform:
1. Using an Existing ASIN
If your product is already listed on Amazon, you can use the existing ASIN by “piggybacking” on the current listing. To do this:
- Search for your product using its UPC, EAN, JAN, or ISBN.
- Select the correct product listing and add your offer to it.
Example: If you’re selling a popular brand of headphones that already has an ASIN, you can list your product under that ASIN.
2. Creating a New ASIN
If your product is new to Amazon, you’ll need to create a new ASIN during the listing process. Follow these steps:
- Gather Product Details: Prepare information like the product name, brand, category, and a detailed description.
- Upload High-Quality Images: Use clear, high-resolution photos that showcase the product from multiple angles.
- Add Keywords: Include relevant keywords in the title and description to improve search visibility.
- Set Inventory Levels: Determine how much stock you’ll list initially.
- Price Your Product: Set a competitive price that factors in Amazon’s fees and your profit margins.
Once you’ve entered all the details, Amazon will automatically generate a new ASIN for your product if no match is found.
Where to Find an ASIN Number on Amazon
Finding an ASIN number is simple. Here are the most common ways to locate it:
1. Product Page
On the product page, scroll down to the Product Information section. The ASIN is usually listed under “Technical Details” or “Additional Information.”
2. Product URL
Look at the product’s URL in your browser. The ASIN is embedded in the URL, usually a ten-character code following the product name.
Example:www.amazon.com/A00X0YZ123
Here, A00X0YZ123
is the ASIN.
3. Seller Central
If you’re an Amazon seller, log in to Seller Central and navigate to your inventory. The ASIN will be displayed alongside each product listing.
When to Use an Existing ASIN vs. Create a New ASIN
Use an Existing ASIN:
- When the product you’re selling is identical to an already listed product.
- Includes matching specifications like brand, size, color, and model.
Example: Selling a specific smartphone model that already has an ASIN.
Create a New ASIN:
- When your product differs from existing listings (e.g., variations in size, color, or features).
- For unique or private-label products.
Example: A new line of handmade leather wallets with unique designs.
Pro Tip: Creating an accurate ASIN ensures your product is represented correctly and avoids customer confusion.
Best Practices for Managing ASIN Numbers
- Double-Check Accuracy: Ensure the ASIN matches your product’s specifications to avoid listing errors.
- Organize Inventory: Use spreadsheets or inventory management tools to track products by ASIN.
- Verify Variations: For products with multiple variations (e.g., size, color), confirm that each has a unique ASIN.
- Contact Seller Support: If you’re unsure about which ASIN to use, reach out to Amazon’s Seller Support for assistance.
Understanding the Difference Between ASIN, EAN, ISBN, and UPC
While ASINs are unique to Amazon, other identification codes are used globally for product tracking:
Code | Description | Use Case | Length | Example |
---|---|---|---|---|
ASIN | Amazon Standard Identification Number | Amazon-exclusive product ID | 10 alphanumeric digits | B00X0YZ123 |
EAN | European Article Number | International product tracking | 13 digits | 789687123457 |
ISBN | International Standard Book Number | Books and publications | 10 or 13 digits | 978-0307408432 |
UPC | Universal Product Code | North American product barcode | 12 digits | 123456789012 |
Pro Tip: If your product already has a UPC or EAN, Amazon will automatically convert it to an ASIN during the listing process.
FAQs About Amazon ASIN Numbers
1. What is an ASIN Number on Amazon?
An ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number) is a unique ten-character code assigned to every product listed on Amazon.
2. How Do I Get an ASIN Number?
You can either use an existing ASIN for products already listed on Amazon or create a new ASIN by adding a unique product through Seller Central.
3. Where Can I Find My ASIN Number?
You can find ASINs in the product details section on Amazon, in the product’s URL, or through Seller Central.
4. Why Are ASIN Numbers Important for FBA Sellers?
ASINs help FBA sellers manage inventory, optimize search visibility, and ensure accurate fulfillment.
5. Can Two Products Share the Same ASIN?
No, each ASIN is unique to a specific product and variation on Amazon.
Further Reading
Amazon International Shipping: Costs, Rates, and How to Ship Globall
How to Ship from Alibaba to Amazon FBA: Step-by-Step Guide for Sellers
Shipping to Amazon FBA Fulfilment Center
The Pros and Cons of Choosing Sea shipping from China to Amazon FBA
Amazon FBA Freight Forwarder Guide All you need to know
Amazon Seller Central: Everything You Need to Know to Start Selling
How to prepare an LCL shipment