How to Find SKU Number: A Guide
Did you know that the average United States retail business only has an inventory accuracy rating of 63%? This statistic points out the importance of proper inventory management.
Inaccurate management can only lead to supply chain issues and customer support nightmares. So, what’s the solution to the problem? One answer lies in SKU numbers.
These identification numbers make it easier for both businesses and customers to keep track of various products and returns. But, exactly what is a SKU number? And how do you find one?
If you want to know the answer to these questions and more, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about how to find a SKU number. Let’s get started!
What is a SKU Number?
If you’ve ever worked in retail before, then you’re probably familiar with the concept of a SKU number. Pronounced ‘skew’, this is an acronym that stands for Stock Keeping Unit.
A Stock Keeping Unit is a unique code of numbers and letters that is assigned to each product. Typically, these codes consist of between eight to twelve unique characters.
Each character on the SKU number will usually describe some aspect of the product itself. Some common distinguishing factors are things like brand, item type, color, or the department where the product comes from.
SKU numbers can be found at both in-person locations, as well as eCommerce sites. Keep in mind that every business will use a different organization system with their SKU numbers.
As such, one business’s use of SKU numbers will be different from another, because they stock different products. SKU numbers are vital for businesses because they helo they manage inventory and improve sales.
If you want more information on the question, ‘What is a SKU?’, then make sure to check out this resource.
Why Are SKU Numbers Important?
SKU numbers are important because they improve the customer’s experience. With a SKU number, a customer knows exactly what they’re looking for. This makes it easy for them to look up a specific product when they need it.
SKU numbers are also important for inventory needs. For example, by tracking SKU numbers business owners can find out which products are selling more, then stock up on them in time for busy seasons.
Owners can then take this information and use it to their advantage. For example, if several products are selling fast, then they can group them in a ‘best sellers’ section.
This, in turn, helps increase sales for the business. Finally, it’s important for store organization. Without SKU numbers it is very difficult to find out what products you might be running short on.
How to Find SKU Number Using the Product
Now that we know what SKU numbers are and why they’re important we can dive into how to find them. There are three popular ways to find them.
The first method is to use the product itself. Specifically, you should locate the barcode, or horizontal black strips typically found on the back or bottom. Usually, the SKU number is found below the barcode which you can enter manually.
If you don’t find it under the barcode, then keep looking. Sometimes manufacturers will put it in unusual areas, like under the box in an inside flap.
If you have a piece of clothing or a toy, then it’s not uncommon for the SKU number to be found on a price tag, or sticker attached to the product. Some stores will display the SKU by the shelf of the product, rather than on the product itself.
If you’ve searched the product exhaustively for the SKU number, then there’s a good chance that the item hasn’t been assigned one yet. The good news is that it might still be found on the business’s website.
How to Find SKU Number Using a Website
The rise of eCommerce means that more and more online businesses are attaching their SKU numbers to products online. As such, it’s possible to find the SKU number by scrolling through the company’s website.
Typically, this type of SKU number will be listed with the product on the product page. Also, remember that not all businesses follow this practice. Some don’t use the barcodes to track their products, but rather the manufacturer that they buy from.
Other companies, like Amazon, use a combination of the manufacturer’s barcode and their barcode. This type of identifier is known as an FNSKU.
What Should You Do If There Isn’t a SKU Number Found?
There are many cases where businesses use SKU numbers for internal tracking purposes. However, for whatever reason, they do not share the information with the customer.
If you can’t find the SKU number on the product, or the business website, then your last option is the receipt. Sometimes will keep the SKU number confined to this type of document.
If there’s still no SKU number to be found anywhere, then it’s likely the company doesn’t use them. If it’s important to you, then you should let them know that their lack of SKU numbers bothers you.
We recommend either asking the business to start using them or switching to a company that does.
Want More Content? Keep Reading
We hope this article helped you learn how to find a SKU number. These days, there’s no reason why a company shouldn’t be using a SKU number. So, if you’re a customer and the business you buy from doesn’t use these codes, then suggest that they do.
It will make life easier both for you and them. Did you enjoy this article? If the answer is yes, then you’re in the right place. Keep exploring to find more topics that you’re sure to love.