Inventory glossary

What is SKU naming convention?

SKU naming convention is a fixed set of rules a store uses to build SKU codes, so every code follows the same order of letters and numbers for category, style, size and color.

A clear naming convention lets you scan a product list and know what an item is without opening it. It also stops duplicate or near-identical SKUs from piling up when you add new variants, which keeps your catalog clean as it grows.

Use a short convention that stays readable even after years of new products: pick two or three fixed segments, keep each segment a fixed length where possible, and write the rule down so anyone adding products later follows it the same way.

Example

A candle store sets its rule as CATEGORY-SCENT-SIZE. A lavender candle in the small jar becomes CAN-LAV-S, and the large jar becomes CAN-LAV-L. When they add a vanilla scent, the codes CAN-VAN-S and CAN-VAN-L slot in with no guesswork.

Common mistakes

  • Changing the rule partway through, so old SKUs and new SKUs follow different patterns.
  • Making codes too long or using spaces and special characters that break in spreadsheets and supplier systems.
  • Not including the convention in writing, so each staff member invents their own version.

SKU naming convention and SteadyShelf

SteadyShelf forecasts and builds purchase orders per SKU, so consistent SKU codes make it easier to match your products to each supplier's SKU on the order.

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Related terms

SKU · Variant · SKU rationalization · Product master data · Supplier SKU

Full inventory glossary

FAQ

Does the SKU need to match the barcode or UPC?

No. The SKU is your internal code for tracking and ordering. The barcode or UPC is a separate standard code used for scanning at checkout or in a warehouse.

Should I rename existing SKUs to fix a messy system?

You can, but update it in one pass and keep a record of old to new codes, since old SKUs may still appear in past orders, reports and supplier records.

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