A EAN code bol.com is essential if you want to sell products on the largest online platform in the Netherlands and Belgium. Without a valid EAN code, you simply can't offer articles. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain step by step what an EAN code is, how the system works, how to apply for EAN codes from GS1 Netherlands, what the costs are, and which common mistakes to avoid. Whether you're a starting seller or already have experience - after reading this article, you'll know exactly how to register your products correctly on bol.com.
What is an EAN code and why is it mandatory on bol.com?
EAN stands for European Article Number, an international standard for product identification. Each EAN code is unique and is used worldwide to identify products. On bol.com, a valid, GS1-registered EAN code is required for every article you offer. Bol.com uses these codes to link products, prevent duplicate offers, and keep the catalog organized.
Without an EAN code, bol.com can't identify your product. This means your listing won't go live, and you won't be able to generate sales. Moreover, bol.com is increasingly strict about the validity of EAN codes. Articles with invalid or unregistered codes are taken offline, resulting in direct sales losses.
EAN code bol.com: the different types of EAN codes
There are two main types of EAN codes relevant to bol.com sellers:
EAN-13: the standard product code
The EAN-13 is the most commonly used variant and consists of 13 digits. This code is composed of four parts: a country prefix (2-3 digits), a company number (4-6 digits), an article number (3-5 digits), and a check digit. The EAN-13 is used for the vast majority of consumer products and is the standard accepted by bol.com.
EAN-8: for small products
The EAN-8 is a shortened version with 8 digits, intended for products that are too small for a full EAN-13 barcode. Think of small snack packaging, cosmetics samples, or small electronic components. EAN-8 codes are also accepted by bol.com, provided they are registered with GS1.
| Feature | EAN-13 | EAN-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of digits | 13 | 8 |
| Use | Standard products | Small products |
| Country prefix | 2-3 digits | 2-3 digits |
| Company number | 4-6 digits | Not present |
| Article number | 3-5 digits | 4-5 digits |
| Check digit | 1 digit | 1 digit |
| Accepted on bol.com | Yes | Yes |
The difference between GS1 EAN codes and other EAN codes
This is a crucial distinction that many sellers overlook. An EAN code bol.com must always be registered with GS1. GS1 is the international organization responsible for assigning and managing EAN codes worldwide. GS1 codes are always registered in the company name, making them traceable to the manufacturer or importer.
There are online providers that sell cheap EAN codes that are not registered with GS1. These codes may be technically correct (they have the correct format), but they do not meet the requirements of bol.com. Using non-GS1-registered codes can lead to your products being taken offline and, in the worst case, to blocking of your bol.com account.
Why does bol.com choose GS1?
- Reliability - GS1 codes ensure each code is unique and correctly assigned
- Traceability - products are always traceable to the responsible company
- International standard - GS1 is recognized worldwide by retailers and marketplaces
- Consumer protection - verification of product origin and authenticity
Applying for an EAN code from GS1: step by step
Applying for EAN codes from GS1 Netherlands is a relatively straightforward process. Follow these steps to register your products correctly:
- Go to GS1 Netherlands - Visit the GS1 Netherlands website and create an account
- Choose the right code package - Select a package based on the number of products you want to register
- Fill in your company details - You need a KVK number for registration
- Pay the annual fee - After payment, you will receive your company number
- Assign codes to products - Link your EAN codes to specific products in the GS1 system
- Use the codes on bol.com - Enter the EAN codes when creating your listings on bol.com
Costs of GS1 EAN codes in 2026
The costs for EAN codes at GS1 Netherlands are based on an annual subscription. Below is an overview of the current rates:
| Code package | Number of codes | One-time costs | Annual costs | Cost per code (year 1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starter | 10 | €75 | €40 | €11.50 |
| Basis | 100 | €120 | €85 | €2.05 |
| Standaard | 1,000 | €200 | €170 | €0.37 |
| Uitgebreid | 10,000 | €350 | €300 | €0.065 |
| Enterprise | 100,000 | €550 | €450 | €0.01 |
Tip: start with a smaller package and upgrade as your assortment grows. Most starting bol.com sellers are fine with the Basis package (100 codes). With the Boloo Product Database, you can research beforehand how many products you can realistically offer, so you choose the right code package.
Common mistakes with EAN codes on bol.com
In practice, we regularly see sellers making mistakes when using EAN codes. Below are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
1. Using non-GS1-registered codes
As discussed earlier, bol.com only accepts EAN codes registered with GS1. Codes from other providers are rejected after review, causing your products to go offline.
2. Using the same EAN code for multiple products
Each product variation (color, size, bundle) must have its own unique EAN code. A blue T-shirt in size M needs a different EAN code than the same T-shirt in size L. This is a common mistake that leads to confusion in the bol.com catalog.
3. Copying EAN codes from other sellers
Taking over EAN codes from existing bol.com listings is not allowed if the product is from you. If you offer a different product on the same EAN code, it can lead to product mixing and customer complaints.
4. Not renewing the annual GS1 contribution
If you don't renew your GS1 subscription, your codes will be deactivated after a while. Bol.com can then mark these codes as invalid, meaning all your products with these codes will go offline.
5. No EAN code for own brand products
Even if you're selling products under your own brand (private label), you'll need an EAN code. You can request your own GS1 registration, which will put the codes under your company name.
Checking and Validating EAN Codes
Before you enter an EAN code on bol.com, it's a good idea to check if the code is valid. There are several ways to do this:
- GS1 GEPIR - The official GS1 database where you can check if an EAN code is registered
- Calculate the Check Digit - The last digit of an EAN code is a check digit that's calculated mathematically from the first 12 digits
- Bol.com itself - When you add a product, bol.com automatically checks if the EAN code is valid and registered
Use the EAN database to quickly check which products are already registered and if there's room for your product in the market.
EAN Codes and Your Product Strategy on bol.com
The way you manage EAN codes has a direct impact on your sales strategy. Here are some strategic considerations:
Existing Products vs. Your Own Products
If you're selling existing products (reselling), you use the EAN code that the manufacturer has already assigned. You'll share the buy block with other sellers. With your own products (private label), you request EAN codes from GS1 and have the buy block exclusively for yourself.
Bundles and Multipacks
A bundle of multiple products needs a separate EAN code. A multipack of three identical shampoos has a different EAN code than a single shampoo. Don't forget this when putting together your product range.
Seasonal Products and Variants
For seasonal products that come back every year (like Christmas decorations), you can reuse the same EAN code if the product is identical. If you modify the product, you'll need a new EAN code. Use the Boloo Product Tracker to analyze which products show seasonal peaks and plan your EAN registrations in advance.
What if Your Product Goes Offline Due to an EAN Issue?
If bol.com takes your product offline due to an EAN issue, here are the steps you need to take:
- Check the Reason - Look at the notification in your sales account for the specific reason
- Verify Your GS1 Registration - Check if your GS1 subscription is active and if the code is correctly registered
- Correct the Code - Enter the correct EAN code or request a new one
- Get in Touch - If the problem persists, contact bol.com's partner service
Acting quickly is important: the longer your product is offline, the more revenue you'll miss out on. Monitor your listings regularly to detect EAN issues early.
Frequently Asked Questions About EAN Codes on bol.com
Can I Sell on bol.com Without an EAN Code?
No, a valid EAN code registered with GS1 is required for every product on bol.com. There are no exceptions for private sellers or small quantities.
How Much Does an EAN Code Cost for bol.com?
The costs start at €115 for the first year (€75 one-time + €40 annually) for a package of 10 codes. Larger packages are relatively cheaper per code. See the cost table above for all options.
Can I Use an EAN Code from Another Seller?
Only if you're selling the exact same product from the same manufacturer. If you're selling your own product or putting a different product on the same EAN code, this is not allowed and you risk penalties.
What's the Difference Between EAN and GTIN?
GTIN stands for Global Trade Item Number and is the overarching term. EAN-13 and EAN-8 are specific types of GTIN codes. On bol.com, the terms EAN and GTIN are often used interchangeably, but they refer to the same identification system.
How long does it take to request EAN codes?
At GS1 Netherlands, you usually receive your codes within 1-2 working days after payment. For urgent requests, you can contact them for faster processing. Plan your EAN request well in advance of your product launch to avoid unnecessary delays.
Ready to start selling on bol.com? First, get your EAN codes via GS1, and then use Boloo's Product Tracker to find profitable products you can offer with your new codes.
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