If you are an eBay seller or a buyer, you must have noticed a field called “MPN” for sure, so you wondered what MPN on eBay is? Today we will break it down in a simple way.
We will tell you what an MPN is, how it differs from other product codes, why sellers and buyers need it, and how to use it the proper way.
So let’s get started?
Table of Contents
What Is MPN on eBay?
The Manufacturer Part Number is a unique alphanumeric code that a manufacturer assigns to each product they create. This code is not created by retailers or sellers—it comes directly from the company that made the item.
For example, if you’re selling a laptop charger made by Dell, the manufacturer assigns a specific MPN to that exact model. This number remains consistent regardless of where the product is sold, whether it’s on eBay, Amazon, or in a physical store.
The MPN helps differentiate products that might otherwise seem identical. Two phone cases might look the same, but if they have different MPNs, they could have different features, materials, or compatibility.
It’s important not to confuse MPN with other product identifiers. A Stock Keeping Unit, or SKU, is created by individual sellers for inventory management and varies from store to store. An ISBN is specific to books, while UPC and EAN are barcode numbers used for retail scanning. The MPN is manufacturer-specific and universal across all sales channels.
Why MPN Is Important on eBay
Using the correct MPN in your eBay listings can significantly improve how your products appear in search results. eBay’s search algorithm uses MPNs to match listings with buyer queries, making your items easier to find.
Accurate MPNs reduce confusion for buyers who are searching for a specific product version. When a buyer knows the exact part number they need, entering that MPN into the search bar should lead them directly to compatible listings.
Including the MPN also boosts buyer confidence. Shoppers are more likely to click on and purchase from listings that provide detailed, accurate product information. This transparency signals professionalism and reduces the risk of returns due to incorrect items.
Additionally, eBay uses MPNs to organize its product catalog. When you provide the correct MPN, eBay can group your listing with others selling the same item, creating a better browsing experience and improving your listing’s visibility.
Where to Find the MPN for Your Product
The easiest place to find an MPN is on the product’s original packaging. Manufacturers often print this number on the box, label, or wrapper alongside other product details like the model number and barcode.
If you no longer have the packaging, check the manufacturer’s official website. Most companies list MPNs in their product specifications, technical sheets, or support sections.
Product manuals, warranty cards, and technical documentation are also reliable sources. These documents typically include the MPN along with installation or usage instructions.
For used or refurbished items, the MPN might be printed directly on the product itself, especially for electronics, appliances, and auto parts. Look for labels, engraved text, or stamped codes on the item’s body or battery compartment.
Some products genuinely do not have an MPN. This is common with handmade items, vintage goods, unbranded products, or custom-made items. In these cases, you can use “Does Not Apply” when listing on eBay.
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When You Should Use MPN in Your eBay Listings
You should always include an MPN when selling branded products. Any item manufactured by a recognized company typically has an assigned part number that should be listed.
Electronics, auto parts, tools, equipment, and appliances almost always require MPNs. These categories often have multiple versions of similar products, and the MPN is essential for buyers to identify the correct match.
Products with various models, colors, sizes, or configurations benefit from MPN usage. For instance, a printer cartridge might come in standard and high-yield versions—each with its own MPN.
Certain eBay categories require the MPN as a mandatory field. If you’re listing in these categories and fail to provide the MPN, your listing may be flagged or not published at all.
However, MPN is not needed for handmade products, one-of-a-kind items, vintage goods without manufacturer information, or custom-created products. For these listings, selecting “Does Not Apply” is the correct approach.
How to Add MPN to Your eBay Listing
Adding an MPN to your eBay listing is straightforward. When creating a new listing, you’ll reach a section called “Item specifics” or “Product identifiers.”
In this section, you’ll see fields for Brand, MPN, and possibly other identifiers like UPC or EAN. Simply enter the MPN exactly as it appears from the manufacturer—no extra spaces, dashes, or alterations unless they’re part of the original code.
Make sure the MPN matches the brand and product you’re listing. Entering the wrong MPN can lead to your listing being mismatched with the wrong product catalog entry.
Before publishing, review your listing carefully. Double-check that the MPN is correct and that all other product details align with the manufacturer’s specifications. This extra step can prevent errors that might cause your listing to be suppressed or removed.
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Common Issues Related to MPN on eBay
One frequent problem sellers face is listing errors due to missing or incorrect MPNs. eBay may reject or suppress listings if the MPN doesn’t match the brand or product category you’ve selected.
Duplicate product listings can occur when sellers enter different MPNs for the same item, either accidentally or because they’re using seller-specific SKUs instead of manufacturer MPNs.
Some sellers struggle with products that don’t have a real manufacturer MPN. In these cases, it’s tempting to make up a number, but this violates eBay’s policies and can result in penalties.
Confusion often arises between seller-created numbers and manufacturer-assigned numbers. Remember, only use the official MPN from the manufacturer—never substitute your own inventory codes.
If you receive an “MPN Required” error in certain categories, you’ll need to either find and enter the correct MPN or select “Does Not Apply” if the product genuinely lacks one. Leaving the field blank or entering generic text like “N/A” usually won’t work.
MPN vs GTIN, EAN, UPC, and Brand
These identifiers work together to create a complete product profile. The Brand tells buyers who made the product, while the MPN specifies which exact item from that brand’s catalog you’re selling.
GTIN, which stands for Global Trade Item Number, is an umbrella term that includes UPC, EAN, and ISBN. These are barcode-based identifiers used globally for retail scanning and inventory management.
For accurate listings, especially in competitive categories, eBay may require multiple identifiers—not just the MPN. Providing both an MPN and a UPC, for example, gives eBay more data points to match your listing correctly.
Accuracy across all these fields is critical for search visibility and listing quality. Inconsistent or conflicting information can confuse eBay’s catalog system and reduce your product’s discoverability.
Benefits of Using Correct MPN for Sellers
When you use the correct MPN, your listings rank higher in eBay’s internal search results. The algorithm favors complete, accurate listings because they provide a better user experience.
Proper MPNs also improve your visibility in Google Shopping and other external search engines. These platforms pull product data from eBay, and accurate identifiers increase the chances your listing appears in relevant searches.
Fewer returns and customer complaints result from clear, precise product identification. Buyers who receive exactly what they expected are more satisfied and less likely to request refunds.
Listing suppression becomes less likely when your product data is accurate. eBay occasionally hides or removes listings with errors or missing information, which can hurt your sales and seller metrics.
Best Practices for Managing MPNs
Always verify the MPN from the original manufacturer’s documentation or website. This ensures you’re using the official, correct number rather than a retailer’s substitute.
Never use made-up MPNs, even if you think it will help your listing get published. eBay can detect inconsistencies, and fake MPNs can lead to account warnings or suspensions.
Maintain a spreadsheet or inventory management system to track your products and their MPNs. This is especially helpful if you sell multiple items from the same brand or product line.
Match your MPNs with the corresponding brand, model number, and GTIN whenever possible. Consistency across all fields strengthens your listing’s credibility and accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if my product has no MPN?
If your product is handmade, custom, vintage without manufacturer data, or genuinely unbranded, you can select “Does Not Apply” in the MPN field.
Can I use “Does Not Apply”?
Yes, but only when the product truly lacks a manufacturer-assigned part number. Don’t use this option just to skip the field—it should reflect reality.
Is MPN mandatory for all eBay categories?
No, but many categories do require it. eBay will indicate if the MPN is mandatory during the listing process. Categories like electronics, auto parts, and tools typically require MPNs.
Does MPN affect my sales?
Absolutely. Accurate MPNs improve search visibility, build buyer trust, and reduce misunderstandings. Listings with correct identifiers generally perform better than those without.
Conclusion
The Manufacturer Part Number is more than just a technical detail—it’s a powerful tool for improving your eBay listings. By providing accurate MPNs, you help buyers find your products, build trust through transparency, and increase your chances of making sales.
Always take the time to verify MPNs from official sources and ensure they match the brand and product you’re listing. Avoid shortcuts like making up numbers or leaving fields blank when they’re required.
Using proper identifiers like MPN, along with UPC, EAN, and accurate brand information, sets your listings apart in a competitive marketplace. It signals professionalism, reduces returns, and keeps your account in good standing with eBay’s policies.
Start applying these best practices today, and you’ll see the difference in your search rankings, buyer engagement, and overall sales performance.
About Carson Derrow
