Amazon ASIN vs. ISBN

What is an Amazon ASIN?

An Amazon Standard Identification Number (ASIN) is a unique 10-character alphanumeric code assigned to products listed on Amazon, including books.

• For Books with an ISBN: The ASIN is typically the same as the ISBN.

• For Books Without an ISBN: Amazon assigns a unique ASIN to the book when listed on their platform.

This identifier helps Amazon manage and track products in its inventory.

Benefits of Using ASIN for Your Books

1. Easy Product Identification

   • The ASIN simplifies cataloging and makes your book easily searchable on Amazon.

2. Enhanced Discoverability

   • It ensures your book is included in Amazon's recommendation algorithms, search results, and category rankings.

3. No Need for ISBN in Some Cases

   • If you self-publish through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), you don’t need to purchase an ISBN as Amazon provides an ASIN for free.

4. Integration with Amazon Tools

   • The ASIN allows for seamless integration with features like "Look Inside," reviews, and "Customers Also Bought" suggestions.

5. Cost Savings for Self-Publishers

   • Self-publishing authors can avoid the cost of obtaining an ISBN, which can be significant, especially for multiple editions.

Disadvantages of Using ASIN for Your Books

1. Platform Exclusivity

   • An ASIN is specific to Amazon and cannot be used for distribution on other platforms.

   • If you want to sell your book elsewhere, you'll likely need an ISBN.

2. Limited Professional Recognition

   • Books with only an ASIN may not be seen as professionally published in the broader publishing world.

   • Libraries, bookstores, and some distributors often require an ISBN.

3. Lack of Flexibility

   • If you use an ASIN without an ISBN, your book's distribution is essentially tied to Amazon. This could limit your ability to expand to other markets later.

4. Potential Market Limitations

   • Some readers and institutions prefer books published with an ISBN due to its broader applicability.

When to Use ASIN vs. ISBN

• Use ASIN if you're publishing exclusively on Amazon and want to save costs.

• Use ISBN if you plan to distribute your book widely through multiple retailers, libraries, or bookstores.

For many self-published authors, starting with an ASIN on Amazon KDP is a practical first step, with the option to acquire an ISBN later if needed.

Can I add ISBN to my book after it was assigned an ASIN?

Yes, you can add an ISBN to your book on Amazon after it has been assigned an ASIN, but there are important considerations depending on the platform and format:

For Kindle eBooks (Digital Format):

• Amazon assigns an ASIN for every eBook published through Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).

• You cannot replace or add an ISBN to an eBook after it’s been assigned an ASIN, as Amazon does not require or use ISBNs for eBooks.

What to do: If you want your eBook to have an ISBN, you need to include it in the book's metadata or front matter before uploading it. However, the eBook will still be identified by its ASIN on Amazon.

For Paperback or Hardcover Books (Print Format):

• When you self-publish through Amazon KDP, you have the option to use either:

  1. A free Amazon-assigned ISBN.

  2. Your own purchased ISBN.

If you initially published your print book using an ASIN or Amazon's free ISBN and later want to use your own ISBN:

1. Update the ISBN:

   • You will need to unpublish the current version of the book and republish it as a new edition with the new ISBN.

   • This effectively creates a new listing on Amazon, so reviews and sales rankings won’t carry over.

2. Ensure ISBN Consistency:

   • The new ISBN should match the metadata (title, author, edition) of the book to avoid discrepancies.

Key Considerations:

• ISBNs Are Permanent: Once an ISBN is assigned, it cannot be changed or removed from a book.

• ASIN vs. ISBN Coexistence: On Amazon, print books will display both the ISBN and ASIN in their product details, as the ASIN is used for Amazon's internal cataloging.

• Republishing Process: Switching to your own ISBN for a previously published book may require creating a new listing, which could reset rankings and reviews.