CATALOGUE TRANSFER

ISRCs when switching music distributors

Moving an unchanged recording to DistroBolt does not, by itself, call for a new ISRC. Keep the existing code with the correct audio and release records. A distributor change is different from releasing a new recording.

What does an ISRC identify?

An ISRC identifies a specific recording, rather than the composition or the release package. Keep each track’s code separate from the release’s UPC/EAN. An album can contain several recordings, each with its own ISRC.

Same recording: keep its existing code

IFPI says that a recording which already has an ISRC should retain it across releases and formats. A change of licence or ownership does not itself replace that identifier. Do not assign a second code just because you are changing distributor. IFPI: when not to assign a new ISRC.

New recording, remix or edit: check before reusing

A new recording or a materially changed recording needs a distinct ISRC. IFPI gives different mixes and edits as examples. Do not reuse an existing code for a different performance simply because the song title is unchanged. IFPI: when to assign an ISRC.

Does a remaster need a new ISRC?

Not automatically. IFPI says a remaster generally keeps the code when it remains fundamentally the same recording; significant new creative input can change that assessment. Describe what changed rather than relying on the word “remastered”. If you are unsure, send DistroBolt the original and proposed version details before submitting. IFPI FAQ: remasters and existing recordings.

Prepare a record for every track

• Track title and version, including remix, edit or live designations.
• Existing ISRC and the source you checked it against.
• The exact audio file associated with that code.
• Artist name, original release date and existing release links.
• Release UPC/EAN, recorded separately from the track ISRC.
• Any differences between the existing and proposed audio.

Use the catalogue inventory template to organise these details. Leave a missing value clearly marked as unknown; do not invent a code or borrow one from another track.

What if you cannot find the code?

Start with your previous delivery records and distributor export. If two sources disagree, keep both references and ask the team to check before submission. A missing search result does not prove that a recording has never received an ISRC.

What does the code not guarantee?

Using the correct code is one part of preparing a transfer. It is not a promise that a platform will retain streams, playlist positions, links or availability. Follow the DistroBolt transfer guide for the wider sequence and checks before removing an old delivery.

DistroBolt · Sources checked 2 November 2026.