By Dark Lab Records Ltd · Updated · 5 min read
What is an ISRC?
ISRC stands for International Standard Recording Code. It is a 12-character code that identifies one specific recording, such as a studio track, a live version or a remix. It is made of a country code, a registrant code, the year of issue and a five-digit designation, usually written like CC-XXX-YY-NNNNN.
The ISRC belongs to the recording for its whole life. If the same recording appears on a single, an album and a compilation, it keeps the same ISRC everywhere. That is what lets plays across different releases add up to one total.
What is a UPC?
UPC stands for Universal Product Code, the barcode that identifies a product. In music it identifies a release: a single, an EP or an album. It is a 12-digit number (13 digits when it is written as an EAN). Stores require one for every release, and it ties together the tracks, artwork and metadata that make up the product.
ISRC versus UPC
- An ISRC identifies a recording. A UPC identifies a release.
- One release (one UPC) contains one or more recordings (each with its own ISRC).
- The same recording can appear on many releases and keeps one ISRC. Each new release needs its own UPC.
- Royalty reporting and chart tracking rely mostly on ISRCs. Store catalogues and shopping rely on UPCs.
When do you need a new code?
- New recording, remix, edit or live version: new ISRC.
- Re-releasing the same, unchanged recording: keep its existing ISRC.
- Releasing a new single, EP, album or re-issue as a product: new UPC.
- Never reuse a code for a different recording or release.
Who issues the codes?
ISRCs are issued through national agencies, and distributors can usually assign them for you. UPCs come from GS1 or from a distributor that holds a block of numbers. Dark Lab Records provides free UPC and ISRC codes with its distribution service, so you do not have to buy them yourself.
Why accuracy matters
Wrong or duplicated codes split your streams across two entries, delay payments and can cause releases to be rejected. Keep a simple spreadsheet of every ISRC and UPC you use, and check each one before you submit.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same ISRC on two different songs?
No. An ISRC identifies a single recording and must never be reused for another one.
Do I need a new ISRC if I re-release a track?
No, if the recording is unchanged it keeps its ISRC. A remix, edit or new recording needs a new one.
Do I have to pay for ISRC and UPC codes?
Not with Dark Lab Records. Free UPC and ISRC codes are included with our music distribution.
Where do I put the ISRC?
Enter it in the track metadata when you submit your release. It is embedded in the delivery to each store.