What is an MPN Number? Why It’s Important for Your Ecommerce Product Listings

An MPN (Manufacturer Part Number) is a unique identifier for products, crucial for ecommerce success. Here's why MPNs matter:

  • Boost visibility: Help customers find your products easily on platforms like Amazon and Google
  • Reduce returns: Ensure customers get exactly what they ordered
  • Simplify inventory: Make stock tracking and reordering a breeze
  • Comply with platform rules: Meet requirements for Amazon, eBay, and Google Shopping
Semi-circular diagram showing the importance of MPNs in E-commerce with four layers: Comply with Platform Rules (meets requirements), Simplify Inventory (facilitates tracking), Reduce Returns (ensures accuracy), and Boost Visibility (helps customers find products). Each layer color-coded with icon and benefit. SCUBE Marketing logo at bottom.

Key points about MPNs:

  1. Unique codes assigned by manufacturers
  2. Mix of letters and numbers, varying in format
  3. Found on packaging, labels, or manufacturer websites
  4. Different from SKUs, GTINs, and UPCs

How to use MPNs correctly:

  • Verify accuracy with the manufacturer
  • Include in product titles and descriptions
  • Use consistent formatting across platforms
  • Update when manufacturers make changes

No MPN? Try using GTIN, SKU, or Brand + Model Number instead.

Remember: Accurate MPNs = happy customers, better visibility, and smoother operations.

How to Add GTIN & MPN to Google Merchant Center for Shopify

What is an MPN?

MPNs, or Manufacturer Part Numbers, are the secret sauce of ecommerce. These unique codes help your products shine in the vast online marketplace. Let's break down MPNs and why they're a big deal for your online store.

The Lowdown on MPNs

An MPN is like a product's digital fingerprint. It's a unique code that manufacturers use to ID their products. Why? To keep track of what they make and set each item apart from similar ones.

Picture this: A car maker uses MPNs for different hubcaps for a 2011 Volkswagen Jetta-Sedan. Each hubcap gets its own MPN. This makes it a breeze for customers to find exactly what they need.

How MPNs Look

There's no one-size-fits-all for MPNs. Each manufacturer cooks up their own system. They usually mix letters and numbers, but the length and style can be all over the place.

A computer part might have an MPN like "AB123X". A piece of clothing? Maybe "DRESS-BLK-M-2023". The key is that each manufacturer sticks to their own system.

Where to Spot MPNs

Finding an MPN can feel like a scavenger hunt, but it's worth it. Here's where to look:

  • Product packaging
  • Barcode labels
  • Manufacturer catalogs
  • Official manufacturer websites
  • Online product databases

Pro tip: When you list your products, put the MPN in both the title and bullet points. This helps your item pop up in more searches.

MPNs vs. Other Product Numbers

Don't mix up MPNs with other product codes. Here's a quick rundown:


Code What it's for Who makes it Used for
MPN Product ID Manufacturer Telling apart products from the same brand
SKU Inventory tracking Retailer In-house stock management
GTIN Global product ID GS1 Universal product recognition
UPC North American barcode GS1 Scanning at checkout

Diagram explaining four types of product codes arranged around a central tag icon: MPN (distinguishes products from same brand), SKU (helps manage inventory), GTIN (provides global recognition), and UPC (facilitates North American checkout scanning). Each code represented by colored circle with icon and description. SCUBE Marketing logo at bottom.

All these numbers matter, but MPNs are the MVP for ecommerce. They help customers nail down the exact product they want, which means fewer returns and happier shoppers.

"An MPN is required for all products that do not have a manufacturer-assigned GTIN." - Webinterpret.com

This just shows how crucial MPNs are when other universal IDs aren't in the picture.

How Online Stores Use MPNs

Manufacturer Part Numbers (MPNs) are effectively unique fingerprints for your products, helping them stand out in the crowded online marketplace. Let's see how big platforms use MPNs and why they're a must for your listings.

Google Shopping MPN Rules

Google Shopping wants to help shoppers find exactly what they're after. That's where MPNs shine:

  • No GTIN? You NEED an MPN.
  • Each product variant gets its own MPN. Think of a Google T-shirt:some text
    • Green Small: MPN 00638HAY
    • Yellow Small: MPN 00638ANG

Don't even think about making up an MPN. Use the manufacturer's number or risk getting your listing booted off faster than you can click "Buy Now".

Amazon's MPN Approach

Amazon plays by slightly different rules:

  • MPNs aren't always required, but they're like a turbo boost for your listings.
  • They're especially handy for tech and industrial products.

One seller saw their computer parts sales jump 15% after adding MPNs. Why? Customers could zero in on the exact components they needed.

eBay's MPN Game

eBay Homepage Screenshot

eBay takes MPNs seriously in certain categories:

  • They're a MUST for Business & Industrial, Cameras & Photo, and Consumer Electronics.
  • For Clothing and Health & Beauty? Optional, but still valuable.

eBay's search algorithm LOVES MPNs. They help match your products with buyer searches like a matchmaking pro.

MPNs: Your Product's Best Friend

MPNs are like a GPS for your products in the vast ocean of online listings:

  1. They make searches more accurate. Shoppers using specific MPNs are more likely to find YOUR product.
  2. They help platforms link your item to their existing catalogs, boosting your listing's visibility.
  3. They build trust with buyers by reducing confusion.

A 3Dsellers study found that eBay listings with MPNs popped up in 20% more relevant search results than those without.

So, don't sleep on MPNs. They're your ticket to standing out in the crowded ecommerce world.

Marketing banner with heading 'Maximize Your eCommerce Growth' and text about SCUBE Marketing's PPC services for large catalog brands. Features 'Get Your Game Plan' call-to-action button and decorative illustration combining Empire State Building, plants, and geometric patterns. SCUBE Marketing logo included.

Why MPNs Help Your Product Listings

Manufacturer Part Numbers (MPNs) are not random gibberish - they're your product listings' best friend. Here's why MPNs are a big deal for your online store:

Making Products Easier to Find

As you know by now, MPNs help customers find exactly what they want. Here's the scoop:

  • Google and Amazon index MPNs. When a customer searches for a specific part number, your product is more likely to show up.
  • MPNs cut through the noise. A shopper looking for a wheel cap cover for a 2016 VW Jetta Sport 1.8 can use the MPN to find the exact part they need.
"These manufacturer part numbers are the identifiers used for internal and external searches. They aid product visibility and discoverability." - Brij Purohit, Co-Founder At SellerApp

Better Shopping Experience

Correct MPNs = happy customers. Simple as that. Here's why:

  • Customers can double-check they're getting the right product before buying. This means fewer returns and happier shoppers.
  • When buyers see the correct MPN, they trust they're getting the real deal, not some knockoff.

Pro tip: Include a clear photo of the stamped MPN on the product in your listing. It's a small step that can boost buyer confidence big time.

Easier Stock Management

MPNs aren't just for customers - they're a seller's best friend too:

With unique identifiers for each product, keeping track of stock is a breeze. When it's time to reorder, having the correct MPN means you can quickly and accurately restock.

Fewer Listing Mistakes

Accuracy is king in ecommerce, and MPNs help keep your listings on point:

Using manufacturer-provided MPNs minimizes the risk of listing the wrong product or details. It also helps maintain consistent product info across platforms, whether you're selling on Amazon, eBay, or your own site.

Standing Out from Competitors

In the crowded ecommerce world, MPNs can give you an edge:

Listings with correct MPNs often perform better in search results. This helps you stand out from competitors who might be slacking off. Plus, accurate MPNs signal to customers that you're a reliable seller who pays attention to details.

How to Use MPNs Correctly

Manufacturer Part Numbers (MPNs) can supercharge your product visibility and sales. But you've got to use them right. Let's break down how to master your MPN game.

Infographic showing four key aspects of handling Manufacturer Part Numbers (MPNs): Double-check accuracy (verify with manufacturer), Keep it clean (enter exactly as provided), Be consistent (use same format across platforms), and Placement matters (include in titles and bullets). Each aspect represented by colored arrows with icons and explanations. SCUBE Marketing logo at bottom.

Tips for Adding MPNs

1. Double-check accuracy

Always verify the MPN with the manufacturer. One wrong digit can mess up your entire listing.

2. Placement matters

Don't just bury the MPN in the product details. Add it to your title and bullet points too. This helps your listing show up in more searches.

3. Keep it clean

Enter MPNs exactly as the manufacturer provides them. No extra spaces, dashes, or other characters unless they're part of the official MPN.

4. Be consistent

Use the same MPN format across all your listings and platforms. It helps with inventory management and customer searches.

5. Stay updated

Manufacturers sometimes change MPNs. Keep an eye on these changes to keep your listings current.

Common MPN Mistakes

Don't fall into these traps:

  • Using other codes instead of MPNs
  • Making up MPNs when you can't find them
  • Inconsistent formatting
  • Using the same MPN for all product variants

As Henry Kivimaa, Content Manager, puts it:

"MPNs uniquely identify a specific product or component manufactured by a company."

What if Products Have No MPN?

No MPN? No sweat. Here's what to do:

  1. Reach out to the manufacturer
  2. Use alternative identifiers if allowed
  3. Create your own system (but make it clear it's not an official MPN)

For products without standard identifiers, one expert suggests:

"If none of the other product identifiers (Brand, GTIN, MPN) are available for your product, set the identifier attribute to 'false.'"

Handling Different Product Versions

Products change, and so do their MPNs. Here's how to keep up:

  1. Track changes in a log
  2. Update listings ASAP when new versions drop
  3. Clearly communicate differences between versions
  4. Use lookup tables for complex product lines

Fixing MPN Problems

MPNs can be a real pain when they're wrong. Let's look at how to fix common MPN issues and keep your product listings in top shape.

Finding Missing or Wrong MPNs

Can't find your MPNs or think they're wrong? Here's what to do:

1. Go to the source

Check the manufacturer's website or catalog first. It's your best bet for the right MPNs.

2. Look everywhere

MPNs might be hiding. Check product packaging, labels, or barcodes. They might be called "Model Number" or "Part Number".

3. Ask the manufacturer

Still stuck? Contact the manufacturer directly. They know their part numbers best.

4. Keep records

Write down your MPN research. It'll save you time if you run into problems again.

"Warning: do not type in any other code in an MPN field. It is not the same and every marketplace has a right to put a ban on this kind of fraud."

This warning from an expert shows how important it is to use real MPNs.

Platform-Specific MPN Issues

Different platforms have their own MPN quirks:

Amazon:

  • Make sure your MPN matches Amazon's database. If not, you might get errors.
  • If Amazon doesn't recognize your MPN, check your product's barcode (UPC/EAN).

Google Shopping:

  • Google got strict about MPNs in September 2021. If you get an "Incorrect product identifier [mpn]" warning, fix the MPN or delete it if there isn't a valid one.

eBay:

  • eBay's search loves MPNs. Get them right to show up in more searches.

How to Check MPN Accuracy

Checking your MPNs is key. Here's how:

1. Compare

Check the MPN on your product against the manufacturer's official listing.

2. Use multiple sources

Don't just check one place. Look at several to make sure they all match.

3. Look at the product

If you can, compare the MPN on the actual product with what's in your listing.

4. Use software

Use tools to check if your MPNs are in the right format and unique in your database.

Other Product Numbers to Use

Sometimes you can't get an MPN. Try these instead:

Identifier When to Use
GTIN (UPC, EAN, ISBN) For products with universal barcodes
SKU Your own stock keeping unit
Brand + Model Number When the manufacturer doesn't give MPNs

If none of these work, set the identifier attribute to "false" in your product feed.

Conclusion

MPNs aren't just random characters. They're your secret weapon for ecommerce success. Here's why they matter:

1. Visibility boost

MPNs help your products pop in the crowded online marketplace. Amazon and Google use these numbers to index products. This means customers can find exactly what they want, faster. More visibility = more clicks = more sales.

2. Happy customers

Accurate MPNs lead to fewer returns. When shoppers know they're getting the right product, they're less likely to send it back. This saves you money and builds trust.

3. Inventory made easy

MPNs make stock tracking a breeze. With unique IDs for each product, you can keep tabs on inventory and restock quickly.

4. Play by the rules

Many platforms, like Amazon and Google Shopping, require MPNs for certain products. Using them right doesn't just keep you compliant - it boosts your listing performance.

The key? Accuracy and consistency. Double-check those MPNs and keep them updated when manufacturers make changes.

Here's what Henry Kivimaa, Content Manager, has to say:

"MPNs streamline inventory management, enhance supply chain efficiency, and simplify product identification, ultimately contributing to improved customer satisfaction, faster order fulfillment, and smoother operations within the manufacturing and distribution processes."

In short: MPNs might seem small, but they pack a big punch for your ecommerce success.

FAQs

What is an example of a product MPN?

An MPN (Manufacturer Part Number) is like a product's unique ID. It's how manufacturers keep track of different items.

For example: A small, green Google T-shirt might have the MPN "00638HAY".

MPNs usually mix letters and numbers. They help tell apart similar products in the same line.

What is MPN in Shopping?

In online shopping, MPN is short for Manufacturer Part Number. It's a big deal when you're listing products on comparison sites or marketplaces.

Why? Because it helps buyers find exactly what they want. No confusion, fewer returns. Win-win.

How do I find my manufacturer part number?

Looking for an MPN? Here's where to start:

  1. Check the barcode - MPNs often hang out there
  2. Flip through manufacturer catalogs or their websites
  3. Try online databases run by shopping engines and marketplaces

Pro tip: Double-check your MPNs. Accuracy matters in product listings.

What if my product doesn't have an MPN?

No MPN? No problem. Some products, like custom art or handmade items, might not have one. In these cases:

  • Don't play the guessing game
  • Only use an MPN if you're 100% sure it's right
  • See if you can use other identifiers instead

Remember: It's better to skip the MPN than to use the wrong one. Wrong info can confuse customers and mess up your listings.

what makes scube
different

Expertise, results & communication

Our customers value boutique agency approach with access to a seasoned team, profit-based goals, and clear communication.

get your game plan