SKU: stock keeping unit

An SKU is an internal code that identifies a distinct sellable item. It is not necessarily the same as a barcode or a supplier's code.

What to review

  • One code per distinct item
  • Stable naming conventions
  • Separate codes for meaningful variants
  • Avoid reusing retired codes

A simple example

A blue shirt in medium and the same shirt in large need different SKUs if their stock must be counted separately. Keep descriptions readable while the code remains consistent.

In your warehouse

Agree product codes before importing opening stock. VasKem's product catalogue and barcode lookup can support identification; test the labels and lookup method used by your team.

See the workflow in VasKem.