When releasing music digitally, two important codes are often mentioned: ISRC and UPC. Many new artists feel confused about what these codes are, whether they are required, and when to use them. Understanding ISRC and UPC helps ensure your music is correctly identified, tracked, and monetized across all streaming platforms.

This guide explains what ISRC and UPC codes are, why they matter, and how they work on SunoDistro.

What Is an ISRC?

ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) is a unique code assigned to each individual track.
It acts like a digital fingerprint for your song.

Key Points About ISRC:

• One ISRC = One recording

• Each track must have a unique ISRC

• Used by platforms to track:

  • Streams

  • Downloads

  • Royalties

  • Usage data

If you upload the same recording again, the ISRC should remain the same.

When Is ISRC Required?

• Required if your song was previously released

• Optional for brand-new releases

If you leave the ISRC field blank for a new release, SunoDistro will automatically generate an ISRC for you.

Important:

• Do not reuse an ISRC for a different song

• Do not change ISRC if the audio recording is unchanged

What Is a UPC?

UPC (Universal Product Code) is a unique code assigned to the entire release, such as a single, EP, or album.

Key Points About UPC:

• One UPC = One release

• Used to identify the full product on stores

• Helps track sales and performance of the release as a whole

Unlike ISRC, which works at the track level, UPC works at the release level.

When Is UPC Required?

• Required only if the release already exists on stores

• Optional for first-time releases

For new releases, you can leave the UPC field empty and SunoDistro will generate a UPC automatically.

ISRC vs UPC – Key Differences

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

• Entering random or fake ISRC/UPC codes

• Reusing one ISRC for multiple tracks

• Changing ISRC after release

• Using UPC from another distributor incorrectly

Incorrect codes can cause:

• Royalty tracking issues

• Duplicate releases

• Platform confusion

Covers, Remixes & Re-Uploads

• Covers: New ISRC required

• Remixes: New ISRC required

• Same audio re-upload: Use the same ISRC

• Edited or remastered version: New ISRC recommended

Always use a new ISRC when the audio recording changes.

Best Practices on SunoDistro

• Leave ISRC and UPC blank for new releases

• Let SunoDistro auto-generate official codes

• Save generated ISRCs for future reference

• Never modify codes after release goes live

This ensures clean metadata and accurate royalty reporting.

Conclusion

ISRC and UPC are essential identifiers in music distribution. ISRC tracks individual songs, while UPC identifies the overall release. On SunoDistro, both codes are automatically generated for new releases, making the process simple and beginner-friendly.

Understanding when to use these codes helps prevent errors, ensures proper royalty tracking, and guarantees smooth distribution across all platforms.