ISBN vs UPC Explained: What’s the Difference for Book Publishing?

In the world of book publishing, especially for self-publishers and independent authors, understanding the technical side of selling a book is just as important as writing it. Two key identifiers that often cause confusion are the ISBN (International Standard Book Number) and the UPC (Universal Product Code). While they may seem similar, they both involve barcodes and help with tracking and selling, they serve distinct purposes and are used in different contexts.

This article will explore the differences between ISBN and UPC, when and why each is used in book publishing, and how to choose the right one for your publishing goals.

What is an ISBN?

ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number. It is a 13-digit unique identifier used to identify books and book-like products (e.g., eBooks, audiobooks). Every edition and variation of a book (print, eBook, hardcover, softcover, etc.) must have its own ISBN.

Key Characteristics of an ISBN:

• Purpose: Identifies the title, edition, format, and publisher of a book.
• Length: 13 digits (formerly 10 digits before 2007).
• Structure: Includes elements like the country/language group, publisher identifier, item number, and a check digit.
• Used by: Publishers, bookstores, libraries, online retailers (Amazon, Barnes & Noble), and distributors.
• Assigned by: In the U.S., ISBNs are issued by Bowker or you can buy at ISBN Services.
• Cost: Paid (e.g., $125 for one ISBN or $295 for ten from Bowker as of 2024).

What is a UPC?

UPC stands for Universal Product Code. It is a 12-digit barcode used primarily in retail environments to track products and sales, especially through point-of-sale (POS) systems. While it’s widely used for physical products, like food, electronics, clothing, it can also be used for books sold in non-bookstore retail settings (e.g., supermarkets, big-box stores).

Key Characteristics of a UPC:

• Purpose: Identifies retail products and facilitates checkout scanning.
• Length: 12 digits.
• Structure: Consists of a manufacturer number and product number, ending with a check digit.
• Used by: Grocery stores, convenience stores, non-book retailers.
• Assigned by: GS1 (the global authority for UPCs).
• Cost: Paid (usually includes a company prefix and product registrations).

ISBN vs UPC: Side-by-Side Comparison

When Should You Use an ISBN?

Use an ISBN if:

• You are publishing a book (print or digital).
• You want your book to be available through online retailers, bookstores, libraries, and distributors.
• You are distributing your book internationally.
• You are publishing multiple formats (each will need its own ISBN).

An ISBN is essential for professional publishing. It also gives your book credibility and ensures it’s properly cataloged in publishing databases like Books in Print.

When Should You Use a UPC?

Use a UPC if:

• You plan to sell your book in non-bookstore retail outlets like Walmart, Target, or supermarkets.
• You want your book to be scannable by standard retail POS systems.
• You are creating bundled products (e.g., a book with merchandise) and need to track that unique combination.

Keep in mind that if your book already has an ISBN, some retailers may still require a UPC barcode if they don’t use ISBNs in their system.

Can You Use Both ISBN and UPC?

Yes. In fact, many publishers do.

A common practice is to:

• Use the ISBN as the primary identifier.
• Create a barcode that contains both the ISBN and the price, sometimes with a supplemental UPC barcode included next to it.

This setup is typical of mass-market books intended for both bookstores and retail stores.

Where to Get an ISBN and a UPC?

How to Add a Barcode to Your Book Cover

Once you have your ISBN (and optional UPC), you need to generate a barcode image for your book cover.

You can:

• Use third-party services like Bookow, Barcode Bakery, or Terry Burton’s Barcode Generator.
• Ask your book cover designer to embed the barcode correctly in the back cover artwork.

Make sure the barcode includes the ISBN with the price add-on (for books), and optionally the UPC, depending on where you’ll be selling the book.

Conclusion

Choosing between an ISBN and a UPC depends largely on where and how you plan to sell your book. An ISBN is essential for bookstores, libraries, and online platforms, while a UPC is helpful for retail stores and bundled product tracking. In some cases, using both might be the best strategy for maximum market access.

Understanding the role of each code ensures that your book is professionally published and easy to find, buy, and track, no matter the sales channel.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need an ISBN to sell my eBook?

Yes, if you want to sell your eBook on platforms like Apple Books, Google Play, or distribute it widely. Amazon assigns its own ASIN if you don’t use an ISBN, but it’s not recognized outside Amazon.

2. Can I create my own UPC for a book?

No, you must register through GS1 to get a legitimate UPC. Self-generated codes may not be accepted by major retailers.

3. What’s the barcode I see on most book covers?

That’s the ISBN barcode, usually with a price code. Sometimes a UPC is printed beside it for retail sales.

4. Is an ISBN mandatory for self-publishing?

Not legally, but highly recommended. Without one, your book won’t be listed in bibliographic databases or bookstores.

5. Can I reuse an ISBN or UPC?

No. ISBNs and UPCs are unique to a specific product and edition. Reusing them causes major cataloging and retail issues.