Amazon Listing Errors: Error 99012: The value externally_assigned_product_identifier (4,01201E+12) contains invalid characters

Error Description

The "Error 99012: The value externally_assigned_product_identifier (4,01201E+12) contains invalid characters" error indicates that the product identifier provided is not in an acceptable format. This can happen if the identifier is entered in scientific notation, contains letters or symbols, or does not follow the standard format for UPC, EAN, ISBN, etc.

Common Causes:

Scientific Notation: Entering the product identifier in scientific notation instead of a standard numeric format.
Invalid Characters: Including letters, symbols, or spaces in the identifier.
Incorrect Data Entry: Mistakes in typing the product identifier, leading to an invalid format.

Error Solution

To resolve the "Error 99012: The value externally_assigned_product_identifier (4,01201E+12) contains invalid characters," follow these steps:

Identify the Invalid Identifier:
- Review the error message details in Amazon Seller Central to identify the specific SKU and the invalid product identifier.
Verify Identifier Requirements:
- Refer to Amazon’s guidelines to understand the acceptable formats for product identifiers (UPC, EAN, ISBN, etc.). Ensure the identifier is a plain numeric string without scientific notation or invalid characters.
Correct the Product Identifier:
- Access your inventory file or the specific product listing.
- Update the product identifier to a valid format, ensuring it contains only numeric characters and follows the standard length and format for the identifier type.

Example Corrections:

Before: { "sku": "B00123", "externally_assigned_product_identifier": "4,01201E+12" }
After: { "sku": "B00123", "externally_assigned_product_identifier": "401201000000" }

Use Amazon’s Templates:
- Ensure you are using the correct category-specific templates provided by Amazon.
- These templates help ensure that each attribute, including product identifiers, is populated according to Amazon’s requirements.
Submit the Corrected Data:
- Prepare a new inventory file with the corrected product identifier.
- Use Amazon’s bulk upload tools to submit the corrected inventory file.
- Validate the file before uploading to ensure it meets Amazon’s requirements.
Monitor and Verify Updates:
- After submission, monitor the status of your SKU updates in Amazon Seller Central.
- Verify that the error is resolved and that the listing is active without issues.
Implement Data Validation Checks:
- Integrate data validation checks in your inventory management system to ensure that product identifiers are correctly formatted and do not contain invalid characters.
- Use automated tools to validate and verify the correctness of product data before submitting listings.
Educate Your Team:
- Train your team on Amazon’s requirements for product identifiers and the importance of providing accurate and correctly formatted information.
- Provide guidelines and resources to help them stay updated with Amazon’s requirements.

Pro Tip

Advanced Strategies for Managing Product Identifiers on Amazon

Develop a Comprehensive Data Management System:
- Implement a robust data management system to centralize and manage all product information, including product identifiers. Such systems help ensure data accuracy, consistency, and compliance with Amazon's guidelines.
- Utilize software that integrates with Amazon’s API to automate the synchronization of product data, minimizing the risk of invalid identifiers.
Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs):
- Develop and document SOPs for entering and managing product data. These procedures should include steps for verifying product identifiers, using the correct templates, and validating data before submission.
- Regularly update these SOPs to reflect any changes in Amazon’s requirements or your internal processes.
Regular Training and Updates:
- Provide ongoing training for your team on Amazon’s standards for product identifiers and the importance of providing accurate and correctly formatted information. Ensure they understand the impact of invalid identifiers on listing visibility and performance.
- Keep your team informed about any updates or changes in Amazon’s guidelines through regular briefings or training sessions.
Conduct Periodic Data Audits:
- Schedule regular audits of your product listings to ensure compliance with Amazon’s product identifier requirements. Use audit reports to identify and correct any discrepancies.
- Implement corrective actions based on audit findings to prevent recurring issues.
Utilize Amazon’s Tools and Resources:
- Take advantage of the tools and resources provided by Amazon, such as inventory templates and validation tools, to ensure your product data is complete and compliant.
- Use Amazon’s Seller Central support and forums to stay informed about best practices and common issues faced by other sellers.
Engage with the Seller Community:
- Participate in Amazon seller forums and communities to share experiences and learn from other sellers. Engage in discussions about data management and compliance to gain insights and best practices.
- Attend webinars, workshops, and events hosted by Amazon or industry experts to enhance your understanding and skills.
Monitor Product Performance Metrics:
- Regularly monitor the performance metrics of your listings to identify any potential issues related to product identifiers. Use performance reports to track the impact of accurate data management on sales and visibility.
- Address any performance issues promptly to maintain compliance and optimize your listings.
Implement Automated Solutions:
- Consider implementing automated solutions or software that can assist in managing product data. These tools can help validate data, automate updates, and integrate with your inventory management system.
- Evaluate the benefits of such solutions to determine if they can enhance your data management processes and reduce the risk of invalid identifiers.
Stay Updated with Amazon’s Policies:
- Regularly review Amazon’s policies and guidelines regarding product listings and product identifiers. Stay informed about any changes or updates that may affect your listings.
- Subscribe to Amazon’s newsletters and follow their seller blogs to receive the latest information and updates.
Professional Consultation:
- If you face ongoing challenges with managing product identifiers, consider seeking professional consultation from experts specializing in Amazon compliance and data management.
- Professional consultants can provide tailored advice, help navigate complex issues, and improve your overall data management practices.

By adopting these advanced strategies, sellers can effectively manage product identifiers, minimize the risk of "Error 99012: The value externally_assigned_product_identifier (4,01201E+12) contains invalid characters," and ensure accurate and compliant product listings on Amazon. Proper data management not only prevents errors but also enhances the visibility, searchability, and overall performance of your products on the platform.

View error on Amazon

Amazon Error: 99012 Error 99012: The value externally_assigned_product_identifier (4,01201E+12) contains invalid characters

Error Description

Error Solution

Pro Tip

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