- How do I register a title with Nielsen Soundscan?
To register with Nielsen SoundScan, you must fill out and submit a Title Addition Form to the Database Department. Forms must be submitted at least three weeks before the project’s release date.
- What is the fee to register a title?
There is no fee to register a title in the Nielsen SoundScan database.
- How long does it take for a title to be registered?
Once we receive the Title Addition Form, it can take up to 10-15 business days to be registered. Please submit your Title Addition Form at least three weeks before the project's release date.
- How can I get an ISRC or UPC code?
Nielsen SoundScan does not provide ISRC or UPC codes/barcodes. Please read the following carefully:
ISRC
If you are based in the United States, you may apply for an ISRC Registrant code through
the RIAA. You can also email them at isrc@riaa.com. If you are not
based in the United States, please visit the IFPI at www.ifpi.org to
find the ISRC Agency in your territory.
UPC/Bar Codes
For UPC or Barcode information, contact GS1 at 937-435-3870. You can also email them at info@gs1us.org or visit them on the web at http://barcodes.gs1us.org.
*UPC - Universal Product Code
*ISRC - International Standard Recording Code
*RIAA - Recording Industry Association of America
*IFPI - International Federation of the Phonographic Industry
- If a title is sold before it is registered with Nielsen SoundScan, will those sales be applied?
No, we are a weekly tracking service, collecting data sold from the previous Monday through Sunday.
- If I register with Nielsen SoundScan, am I also registered with Nielsen BDS?
No, there is a separate registration process for Nielsen BDS. Please visit www.bdsonline.com for more information.
- How can Concert, Venue, or Internet sales be tracked?
In order to report Venue or Internet sales to Nielsen SoundScan, you must meet the criteria for reporting. Please visit the 'Report Venue Sales' section of this website for more information.
- How do I become a Nielsen SoundScan reporting store?
The store must have a Point of Sales (POS) Inventory System, as well as Internet access. Please visit the 'Become A Nielsen Soundscan Retail Reporter' section of this website for more information.
- Who uses Nielsen SoundScan data?
Nielsen SoundScan clients include all major and most independent record companies, distribution companies, artist managers, booking agents, concert promoters, venue owners, traditional retailers, online retailers and digital delivery companies.
Since March 1, 1991, Billboard Magazine charts have been constructed directly from Nielsen SoundScan data. MTV, VH1, CMT and all major media regularly use Nielsen SoundScan data as well.
- Who reports sales to Nielsen SoundScan and is there a list of reporting Retailers available?
Nielsen SoundScan collects point-of-sales information from Retail, Mass Merchant, Independent Retail, Internet Retail sites, Venues, Mail Order and Digital Download providers.
Due to confidentiality agreements with our information providers, we cannot supply a list of reporting stores or web sites.
- How do I receive my royalties?
SoundScan does not provide any payment for royalties. Please contact one of the performing rights societies such as BMI, SESAC or ASCAP.
