How to create SKU for Shopify – Generate Effective SKU Code [2023]

In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, efficient inventory management is crucial for the success of any business. One key element of inventory management is the utilization of SKU codes. SKU, short for Stock Keeping Unit, is a unique identifier assigned to each product in a company’s inventory. This article will delve into the world of SKU codes, how to create sku for shopify, their importance, and how they can be effectively implemented in Shopify.

Why do businesses use Stock Keeping Units (SKUs)?

Businesses across various industries use SKU codes to streamline their inventory management processes. SKU codes provide a systematic way to organize and track products, making it easier to locate items, monitor stock levels, and manage sales.

By assigning a unique SKU to each product, businesses can efficiently categorize, store, and retrieve inventory information, leading to improved productivity and customer satisfaction.

What’s the difference between SKU and UPC?

Before we dive deeper into SKU codes, let’s briefly differentiate them from UPC (Universal Product Code) barcodes. While both serve as identifiers, SKU codes and UPC barcodes have distinct purposes.

A SKU code is an internal code used by businesses to manage inventory. It is unique to each product and can be customized according to the company’s needs. On the other hand, a UPC barcode is a standardized code that is universally recognized and used for point-of-sale scanning. UPC barcodes contain information about the product, such as its manufacturer and price, but they do not offer the same level of flexibility and customization as SKU codes.

What is an SKU Number in Shopify?

In e-commerce, Shopify has emerged as a popular platform for businesses to build their online stores. SKU codes play a vital role in Shopify’s inventory management system. An SKU in Shopify is a unique identifier assigned to each product variant within the platform. It allows merchants to track inventory levels, manage stock, and optimize their overall e-commerce operations.

Where are SKUs used?

SKUs are utilized across various stages of a product’s lifecycle, from manufacturing to sales. They are primarily used in inventory management systems, both offline and online, to track and organize products. In addition to Shopify, SKUs are employed in other e-commerce platforms, point-of-sale systems, and warehouse management software. Regardless of the industry, SKUs provide a standardized method to identify, categorize, and manage products effectively.

how to Create SKU for Shopify- the Most Correct and Logical Way

Follow these steps to add SKU codes to your products on shopify 

1. Access your Shopify admin dashboard.
2. Navigate to the “Products” section.
3. Create a new product or select an existing one.
4. Scroll down to the Inventory section of the product page.
5. Enter your SKU code in the designated input box.
6. Save your changes.

Creating SKU codes for Shopify requires a systematic approach to ensure consistency, accuracy, and ease of use. Here are some best practices to follow when generating SKU codes:

1. Keep it Unique and Descriptive

Each SKU code should be unique to avoid confusion and ensure efficient inventory management. It’s essential to create codes that are descriptive and provide relevant information about the product. For example, a SKU code for a red t-shirt in size small could be “RT-SM-RED.”

2. Consistency is Key

Maintaining consistency in SKU codes is crucial for easy identification and organization. Choose a format that works for your business and stick to it. Whether it’s a combination of letters, numbers, or both, ensure that the structure remains consistent across all products.

3. Consider Variants and Attributes

If your products have different variants or attributes, such as size or color, incorporate them into the SKU code. This helps differentiate between similar products and simplifies inventory management. For instance, a black t-shirt in size medium could have the SKU code “BT-MED-BLK.”

4. Avoid Special Characters and Spaces

To ensure compatibility across different systems, it’s best to avoid special characters and spaces in SKU codes. Stick to alphanumeric characters and hyphens or underscores for clarity and consistency.

5. Keep It Simple and Intuitive

While SKU codes should be descriptive, it’s essential to strike a balance between detail and simplicity. Codes that are too long or complicated may become burdensome to use and remember. Aim for codes that are intuitive and easy to understand at a glance.

The Best Practices for SKU Codes on Shopify – SKU Rules To Remember

Now that we understand the fundamentals of creating SKU codes for Shopify, let’s explore some best practices and rules to remember:

1. Be Mindful of Length

Shopify allows SKU codes of up to 255 characters. However, it’s advisable to keep them concise to maintain efficiency and readability. Aiming for SKU codes between 8 to 12 characters is generally recommended.

2. Utilize Variants Effectively

Shopify’s variant feature allows you to offer different options for your products, such as size, color, or material. When creating SKU codes, ensure that each variant has a unique identifier to facilitate accurate inventory tracking.

3. Use LSI Keywords for Variants

To enhance your product’s visibility and improve search engine optimization, incorporate LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords in your SKU codes. LSI keywords are terms related to your product that users may search for. For example, if you’re selling running shoes, consider including LSI keywords like “athletic,” “sports,” or “performance” in your SKU codes.

4. Regularly Review and Update SKU Codes

As your business evolves and new products are introduced, it’s crucial to review and update your SKU codes periodically. This ensures that your inventory remains organized and reflects any changes or additions to your product offerings.

How does SKU work for Shopify?

Now that we have a solid understanding of how to create SKU for Shopify effectively. let’s explore how SKU works within the Shopify platform.

When adding a product to your Shopify store, you’ll come across the option to assign an SKU code to each product variant. This is where you can implement the SKU codes you’ve created using the best practices mentioned earlier.

How an SKU Code Looks on Printed Labels

Once you’ve successfully assigned SKU codes to your products in Shopify, you can utilize these codes on printed labels. When printing labels for your products, you have the option to include SKU codes alongside other information like product names, prices, and barcodes. Including SKU codes on labels enhances accuracy in inventory management and makes it easier to locate and identify products.

How to generate SKU in Shopify for any product?

Adding an SKU to your products in Shopify is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Log in to your Shopify admin panel.
2. Navigate to the “Products” section.
3. Select the product you wish to assign an SKU code to.
4. Scroll down to the “Inventory” section.
5. In the “SKU” field, enter the desired SKU code for the product variant.
6. Save the changes.

By following these steps, you can ensure that each product variant in your Shopify store has a unique SKU code assigned to it.

Determine how many SKU codes you’ll need.

Before implementing SKU codes in Shopify, it’s crucial to determine how many codes you’ll need. This depends on the number of products, variants, and attributes your business offers. Take an inventory of your products and assess the level of detail required for efficient management. Once you have a clear understanding, you can generate the appropriate number of SKU codes to meet your inventory needs.

How to Insert SKU Numbers to Your Product Variants in Shopify

Now that you are fully equipped with the knowledge of how to create sku for shopify & have determined the number of SKU codes you need, it’s time to insert these numbers into your product variants in Shopify. Follow these steps:

1. Access your Shopify admin panel.
2. Go to the “Products” section.
3. Choose the product variant you want to assign an SKU code to.
4. Scroll down to the “Inventory” section.
5. Enter the SKU code in the designated field.
6. Save the changes.

By inserting SKU numbers into your product variants, you ensure that each specific variation of your product has a unique identifier.

Benefits of Effective SKU Implementation

Implementing SKU codes effectively in Shopify offers numerous benefits for your business. Let’s explore some of them:

1. Efficient Inventory Management: SKU codes streamline inventory management processes, allowing for easy tracking, organization, and retrieval of products. This leads to improved efficiency and reduced errors in stock management.
2. Accurate Order Fulfillment: By using SKU codes, you can quickly identify and locate specific products in your inventory. This enables faster and more accurate order fulfillment, leading to increased customer satisfaction.
3. Effective Reporting and Analysis: SKU codes provide valuable data for reporting and analysis purposes. They allow you to track sales, monitor product performance, and make informed business decisions based on comprehensive inventory information.
4. Enhanced Customer Service: With well-implemented SKU codes, you can promptly respond to customer inquiries about product availability, shipping status, and other inventory-related questions. This improves overall customer service and satisfaction.

Need Help in Creating Custom Inventory Management System & SKU Generator?

Are you looking for a tailored solution to streamline your inventory management? Look no further than Swishtag. We specialize in providing custom Shopify apps and management systems designed to meet the unique needs of your brand. With your powerful SKU generator, you can create SKU codes with custom rules that align perfectly with your products and business processes.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

How do I create a SKU number for my product in Shopify?

Creating a SKU number for your product in Shopify is a simple process. Follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Shopify admin panel.
2. Go to the “Products” section.
3. Select the product you want to assign an SKU number to.
4. Scroll down to the “Inventory” section.
5. In the “SKU” field, enter the desired SKU number for the product.
6. Save the changes.

How do I create my own SKU?

When creating your own SKU, it’s important to follow best practices to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your own SKU:

1. Determine the structure: Decide on a format that works for your business, such as using a combination of letters, numbers, or both.
2. Make it unique: Each SKU should be unique to avoid confusion and ensure accurate inventory management.
3. Add product-specific details: Include relevant information about the product, such as color, size, or variant, in your SKU code.
4. Maintain consistency: Stick to the chosen format and structure across all your products.
5. Avoid special characters and spaces: To ensure compatibility across systems, use only alphanumeric characters, hyphens, or underscores.
6. Test and review: Before implementing your SKU codes, review them for clarity, simplicity, and ease of use.

How do I create a SKU barcode in Shopify?

Creating a SKU barcode in Shopify is a useful way to improve inventory management and streamline checkout processes. Here’s how you can create a SKU barcode:

1. Install a barcode app: Shopify offers several barcode apps in its app store. Choose a barcode app that suits your needs and install it on your Shopify store.
2. Generate barcodes: Once the app is installed, you can generate barcodes for your products using the SKU codes you have assigned. The app will provide options for barcode customization, such as barcode type and size.
3. Customize barcode settings: Configure the barcode settings according to your preferences, ensuring that the barcode integrates seamlessly with your product labels and packaging.
4. Print barcodes: With the barcode app, you can print the generated barcodes on labels or product packaging. Ensure the barcodes are clear and easily scannable.

Final Words

In a nutshell, the difference between SKU and UPC, the benefits of using SKU codes, and how to create SKU for Shopify and assign SKU numbers to products in Shopify are well explained. With the power of SKU codes, businesses can optimize their inventory management processes, make informed decisions, and ultimately drive success in the competitive online marketplace.