In common with the rest of the worldwide books trade, Elsevier is preparing for thirteen-digit ISBNs.

All ISBNs, both newly issued ones and those already in circulation, will be converted to the new format by 1 January 2007. We are working hard to make the transition as smooth as possible for both customers and suppliers. This information refers to all Elsevier’s US and UK/NL book imprints.

What are thirteen-digit ISBNs?

Because the stock of unallocated ISBNs is running out, the International Standards Organisation has extended the number from ten to thirteen digits. Every ten-digit ISBN has an equivalent thirteen-digit ISBN (known as ISBN-13).

Key milestones

1 January 2006
ONIX feeds and EDI messages include ISBN-13 (UK and Europe).
ISBN-13 shown alongside ISBN-10 in new publications and reprints.
Both formats also start to show on invoices, catalogues, websites etc.

1 July 2006
All ONIX feeds and EDI messages include ISBN-13 (world-wide).

1 September 2006
Non-EDI orders can be processed using ISBN-13 (world-wide).

1 March 2007
ISBN-10 ceases to appear on new publications and reprints.
Orders should refer to ISBN-13 only.
Older books will continue to show the ISBN-10 (will not be stickered) but paperwork will show the corresponding ISBN-13.

Will it be possible to search for a book or reference using an ISBN-10, after January 2007?

Yes: our website search engines and customer records will be able to accept either form of the number. There are no plans to set an end date for this. You can also use an online converter, such as
 http://www.isbn.org/converterpub.asp

How are online data feeds and transactions with trade customers affected?

Data feeds such as ONIX, and online transactions using EDIFACT and similar standards will be enabled for ISBN-13 by 31 December 2005 for publications from Elsevier’s European imprints (including UK), and by 30 June 2006 for US imprints. Other international offices have their own plans with different timescales. Trade customers and integrators who use these channels should expect to hear from their normal Elsevier contact to discuss precise dates.

Where do I go for more information?

Sales/general
Please use the 'contact us' link on Elsevier websites, or ask your Elsevier representative or customer service.

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