A SKU is a stock keeping unit, which is a unique code or identifier used to distinguish one inventory item from another in lists, imports, searches, and reports.
What sku means in inventory management
SKUs make inventory easier to find and reconcile when item names are similar. A consistent SKU convention reduces confusion during imports, counts, replenishment, and supplier communication.
Example
Two coffee filters with different sizes should use different SKUs even if their names are similar.
Why sku matters
SKU is part of the reference data that keeps item lists searchable and reliable. Consistent reference data reduces duplicate items, messy imports, unclear supplier lists, and count mistakes caused by ambiguous labels.
Related MyInvy workflows
Use these workflows to see how sku fits into everyday inventory management, from setup and counting to low-stock review and replenishment.
- Add, edit, bulk update, import, and export items: Create tracked items manually, manage item columns and bulk actions, import inventory files, and export item data.
Terms to compare
These related inventory terms often appear in the same setup, counting, or replenishment workflow.
- Inventory import: An inventory import loads item, location, supplier, unit, and starting quantity data from a structured file instead of entering each item manually.
- Pack size: Pack size describes how many base units are included in a case, box, bottle, pack, or other purchasing unit used to count and restock inventory.
- Unit of measure: A unit of measure is the quantity label used for an item, such as each, case, bottle, box, pound, liter, or pack.