SKU stands for Stock Keeping Unit and helps manage inventory.
SKU Explained
Why SKU Matters
Improves product organisation.
Where You'll Come Across It
Product listings.
Practical Example
A product code like SKU123.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need SKUs for my online shop?
If you sell more than a handful of products, yes. SKUs make it much easier to manage inventory, process orders, and track stock. They're especially important if you sell across multiple channels.
How do I create a good SKU system?
Use a consistent format that encodes useful information. For example, "TEE-BLU-M" could mean a blue medium t-shirt. Keep them short, avoid spaces and special characters, and make sure each product variation has a unique SKU.
Is a SKU the same as a barcode?
No. A SKU is an internal code you create for your own inventory management. A barcode (UPC/EAN) is a standardised code used across the entire retail industry. Products can have both, but SKUs are specific to your business.