Short Answer
Request a GTIN exemption by creating a new product listing in Amazon Seller Central, selecting "I don't have a Product ID," and choosing appropriate exemption options. This allows you to list print-on-demand products without UPC codes.
What is a GTIN Exemption?
A GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) exemption allows you to list products on Amazon without a UPC, EAN, or other product identifier codes:
Important: GTIN exemptions are essential for print-on-demand sellers because custom products don't have standard UPC codes.
📋 Why You Need GTIN Exemption
- Custom Products - Print-on-demand items are unique and don't have manufacturer UPCs
- Cost Savings - Avoid purchasing UPC codes for every design variation
- Faster Listing - Create listings immediately without waiting for UPC acquisition
- Amazon Requirement - Required for most POD categories on Amazon
Step-by-Step GTIN Exemption Process
Follow these detailed steps with visual guides to request GTIN exemption for your print-on-demand products:
Step 1: Access Amazon Seller Central
Start by logging into your Amazon Seller Central account. Look for "Catalog" and then "Add Products."
Step 2: Search for Product Category
Search for "Coffee Mug" (or your specific product type) in the search box and press "Submit."
Step 3: Create New Product Listing
Click "Create a new listing" to start making a new product entry.
Step 4: Enter Product Information
Type a unique name for your product, such as "Funny Coffee Mug Test" and add some numbers to ensure it's unique.
Step 5: Confirm Product Type
Amazon will suggest "Drinking Cup" as the Product Type. Click "Confirm" to proceed.
Step 6: Additional Product Details
After clicking 'Confirm,' Amazon will display additional sections where you'll need to provide information about the brand name and Product ID.
Step 7: Request GTIN Exemption
This is the crucial step for exemption:
- If you don't have a brand name, enter "Generic" and tick the box "This product does not have a brand name"
- If you have a brand name, enter it in the brand field
- Most importantly: tick the box that says "I don't have a Product ID"
- Press "Next" to proceed
Step 8: Exemption Approval
🎉 Success! A message will pop up saying "UPC Exemption Approved." This means you can now sell products without UPC codes. Press "Acknowledge" to confirm.
Step 9: Save Your Work
Once everything is completed, click "Save as draft" to finalize the process and preserve your exemption status.
✅ Congratulations!
You've successfully obtained GTIN exemption! You're now ready to have PODtomatic list products to your Amazon account without the need for UPC or GTIN codes.
Product Categories for GTIN Exemption
GTIN exemptions are available for most print-on-demand product categories:
✅ Commonly Approved Categories
- Drinkware - Coffee mugs, travel mugs, water bottles, tumblers
- Apparel - T-shirts, hoodies, tank tops, activewear
- Accessories - Phone cases, bags, hats, jewelry
- Home & Kitchen - Pillows, blankets, coasters, cutting boards
- Stationery - Notebooks, stickers, magnets, greeting cards
- Wall Art - Canvas prints, posters, framed art
⚠️ Categories with Restrictions
- Electronics - Often require UPC codes for safety compliance
- Health & Beauty - May need FDA or other regulatory codes
- Toys & Games - Safety regulations may require specific identifiers
- Automotive - Part compatibility requires standard identification
Brand Requirements
Understanding brand requirements for GTIN exemptions:
🏷️ If You Have a Brand
- Registered Brand - Enter your official brand name
- Brand Registry - Amazon Brand Registry provides additional benefits
- Consistent Branding - Use the same brand across all listings
- Brand Protection - Helps prevent counterfeit listings
🔖 If You Don't Have a Brand
- Enter "Generic" - Use this for unbranded products
- Check "No Brand Name" - Select the appropriate checkbox
- Consider Creating Brand - Having a brand provides more control
- Future Protection - Easier to build business with consistent branding
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Solutions for common GTIN exemption problems:
❌ Exemption Request Denied
- Check Category - Ensure you're in an exemption-eligible category
- Complete Information - Fill all required fields accurately
- Brand Consistency - Use consistent brand information
- Try Different Approach - Sometimes different product types work better
🔄 Exemption Option Not Available
- Different Category - Try a more specific or general category
- Product Type Selection - Choose a different product type within category
- Contact Amazon - Reach out to Amazon Seller Support for assistance
- Alternative Approach - Consider purchasing UPC codes as backup
⏰ Processing Delays
- Review Time - Amazon may take 24-48 hours to approve exemptions
- Account Status - New seller accounts may face additional review
- Documentation - Provide additional product information if requested
- Follow Up - Contact support if no response after 72 hours
Getting Help
If you need assistance with GTIN exemptions:
- PODtomatic Support - We can help guide you through the process
- Amazon Seller Support - Contact Amazon directly for policy questions
- Community Forums - Connect with other POD sellers for tips and advice
Need help with GTIN exemptions or Amazon setup? Contact our support team for personalized assistance with your Amazon seller account configuration.