ISBNs, Barcodes, & SANs

ISBNs are the global standard for identifying books. They simplify book distribution, inventory tracking, and purchase, and improve the chances that a book will be found and sold. An ISBN identifies one specific version of a book; each version of a book, print or digital, requires its own ISBN.

Barcodes on printed books make them easier to sell – and they are required by most of the largest book retailers and wholesalers. When you get your barcodes from Thorpe–Bowker, the only official Australian ISBN Agency, you can be sure they meet the latest book publishing industry requirements.

The SAN (Standard Address Number) is a unique seven-digit identifier used to signify a specific address of an organization. It facilitates purchase and distribution and reduces common problems such as billing errors, books shipped to the wrong points, and errors in payments and returns.