Document Library: Standards: ISBN-13

ISBN-13: For Retailers....

What does ISBN-13 Mean for Retailers?

The ISBN-13 transition requires retailers (along with all other segments of the book industry) to begin using 13-digit product identifiers when transacting business with publishers and wholesalers beginning January 1, 2007.

Every retailer's system will need to accommodate 13-digit identification numbers. Some retailers may need to implement a systems change in order to accommodate this.

Retailers in all markets should discuss the ISBN-13 transition with their store POS systems vendors and/or in-house IT personnel to ensure that they are ready for the changes that are coming.

All information printed by publishers and wholesalers which currently references an ISBN-10 needs to be changed to reflect the new ISBN-13 (i.e. catalogs, price sheets, new title cards, invoices, etc.). Retailers need to be able to communicate with trading partners (i.e. place and receive orders) using ISBN-13.

Internal systems must be converted so that staff members will be able to store and search for titles using 13 digits.

For more information:

Retailer Relevant ISBN-13 FAQ

Impact of the ISBN-13 Transition on Existing Systems

Communication and GTIN Considerations

Internal Retailer Records to be Reviewed

ISBN-13 Resources from the American Booksellers Association (ABA)