How do you get EAN codes for Bol.com?

Selling on Bol.com requires that each item has a unique EAN code (European Article Number). This barcode is essential for identifying and cataloging products within the Bol.com platform. As a new seller, you might be wondering how to get an EAN code and what the exact rules are.

What is an EAN code?

An EAN code, often simply referred to as a barcode, consists of a series of numbers that are globally unique to a specific product. These codes are crucial not only for online marketplaces like Bol.com but also for physical stores and distribution centers to streamline inventory management. An EAN code is permanently assigned to one product and cannot be transferred to another product.

EAN codes for sellers on Bol.com

For sellers on Bol.com, having a valid EAN code for each product is a requirement. An EAN code is linked to a specific item and can be used only for that item. Without an EAN code, it simply isn't possible to sell your products on Bol.com.

How to buy EAN codes?

Step 1: Determine how many EAN codes you need

Before purchasing EAN codes, it is important to determine how many codes you need. This depends on the number of unique products you want to sell. Each unique product requires its own EAN code. Keep in mind that you cannot reuse EAN codes or use them for multiple different products. For example, are you selling one product in 3 different colors? Then you need 3 EAN codes. GS1 offers various packages of EAN barcodes ranging from 10 to 1000 EAN codes.

Step 2: Choose an EAN supplier

EAN codes can be purchased from various suppliers. GS1 is the official issuer of EAN codes and provides the assurance that codes are globally unique and validated. There are also other suppliers selling EAN codes, often at lower prices, but generally it is recommended to always purchase codes directly from GS1. Some providers often cannot guarantee that their codes are unique, which can lead to various issues.

Step 3: Purchase and registration

After selecting a supplier, you can purchase the required quantity of EAN codes. At GS1, this involves registering your company information and paying an annual (relatively small) fee. After the purchase, you'll receive a list of unique EAN codes that you can assign to your products.

Step 4: Assign EAN codes and add them to Bol

Once you have received the EAN codes, the next step is assigning these codes to your products. Determine which EAN belongs to which product and then add your new, unique EAN code to your Bol listing. Next, ensure the correct product information on Bol, including the product name, description, price, and images.

Keep track of your EAN codes

Maintain a clear record of which EAN codes have been assigned to which products. This facilitates future inventory management and ensures that you don't mix up codes. You can keep track of your codes in an Excel file, for example.

If your product changes in brand or color, according to global GS1 guidelines, you must use a new EAN code. Bol follows these guidelines in their policies and also enforces this obligation.