Do I need a barcode on my book?
Yes. Every item fulfilled by Acutrack must have a scannable code for inventory and shipping.
What are my options?
You can use one of these:
- ISBN (recommended for most authors)
- UPC (less common for books)
- Free Acutrack DataMatrix code (fulfillment only)
Which option should I choose? (Quick guide)
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Use an ISBN if you:
- Plan to sell on Amazon, bookstores, or through distributors
- Want your book treated as a “real” retail title
- Want wider distribution
-
Use a UPC if you:
- Are selling like a retail product (events, non-book channels)
- Don’t need bookstore or library distribution
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Use Acutrack’s free DataMatrix if you:
- Only need fulfillment (e.g., direct-to-consumer, courses, events)
- Don’t plan to sell through retail or bookstores
Do I need an ISBN for a TikTok Shop?
TikTok Shop requires a product identifier for most categories, and ISBN is one acceptable option alongside GTIN, UPC, and EAN. It's not a book-specific mandate. You can submit any valid identifier your product already has.
Should I use a free ISBN from Amazon KDP?
You can but there are trade-offs:
- Publisher will show as “Independently Published”
- Some bookstores/distributors may not carry it
- You can’t reuse that ISBN elsewhere later
Best practice: Buy your own ISBN if you want full control of your publishing brand.
Where do I get an ISBN or UPC?
- ISBN: Purchase from Bowker (U.S.)
- UPC: Purchase from GS1
Each format/version of your book (paperback, hardcover, etc.) needs its own ISBN.
👉 Get an ISBN. It gives you the most flexibility and keeps your options open