ScoutIQ “No Results Found”: What It Means & What to Do

Sep 2 / Adinda Wardani

How often do you scan a book in ScoutIQ and get hit with a “No Results Found” message?


It’s frustrating, slows you down, and can make you wonder if the app’s broken. Most of the time, it’s simply about how ScoutIQ’s scanning system works and which mode you’re using.

Scanning Modes Explained

Your scanning mode determines where ScoutIQ looks for data when you scan an item. You can change this in your Settings at any time to match your scanning environment.

Why Are You Seeing “No Results”?

Now that you understand how each scanning mode works, let’s look at why some items still don’t show up, especially when you’re using Database Only Mode.

Even though ScoutIQ’s offline database is one of the largest in the industry (with over 14 million books and media items), it doesn’t contain everything on Amazon, which has over 20 million books and is updated constantly. That means there will always be gaps between what’s in your local database and what’s currently live on Amazon.
Here are the most common reasons your scan might come up empty:

1. Database Limitations

Some books simply aren’t included in the version of the database you’ve downloaded yet.

For example, if you scan a brand-new release in Database Only Mode and see “No Results Found,” it doesn’t mean the book isn’t profitable; it just hasn’t been added to your local file yet. Switching to Live Mode or Data + Live Mode will pull the latest info directly from Amazon.

2. Constantly Changing Inventory

Amazon’s catalog changes all the time. Sellers list and remove items daily, and ScoutIQ’s updates may not capture every change instantly.

3. Unscanned Items

Some books haven’t been scanned by anyone yet, so they’re not in the shared offline database. They may still show up if you run a live scan.
So even if your scanning mode is set correctly, the book you’re scanning might simply not be in our offline file. That’s when Live Mode or Data + Live Mode becomes your best backup.

What to Do When ScoutIQ Shows ‘No Results Found

If "No Results Found" keeps popping up when you scan, try these two quick fixes to get rid of the problem:

1. Switch to Data + Live Mode

This is the most reliable scanning mode when you have a slower cell signal or WiFI connection. ScoutIQ first checks your local database for speed, and if it doesn’t find a match, it automatically pulls the latest info from Amazon. That means you’ll still get quick results, but you won’t miss out on profitable books that aren’t yet in your downloaded database. It’s the best balance of speed and accuracy.

2. Keep Your Database Updated

If you prefer Database Only Mode (like when sourcing at thrift stores, book sales, or warehouses with a weak signal), make sure you download the latest version before you go. A fresh database greatly improves your chances of finding results for newly scanned or added books, while an outdated file makes “No Results Found” much more likely, even for items that are already live on Amazon.
  • Pro Tip: Use Data + Live Mode whenever possible, and always refresh your database before sourcing offline.
    This combo gives you the best shot at accurate results and fewer missed opportunities.

Final Takeaway

The “No Results Found” message doesn’t mean ScoutIQ is broken; it simply means there’s a gap in the data available for the scanning mode you’re using. Once you understand how the app works and adjust your settings, you’ll avoid missed opportunities and keep your workflow running smoothly.

Scout smarter. Choose the right mode. And update your database often to stay one step ahead!