What’s a SKU and How Should You Use It?

Helen — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 10:24:46 GMT

Hello! In this post we'll cover what does 'SKU' mean and when, where and how would you use on. Let's get started!

SKU is an acronym for Stock Keeping Unit. It is an 8 alphanumeric code made of letters and numbers that retailers assign to products to keep track of stock internally.

What’s the difference between SKU and UPC?

A UPC, or Universal Product Code, is a 12-digit numeric code (numbers only) that is attached to products wherever they are sold, for external use. So a product will always have the same UPC no matter where it’s sold, but different stores or businesses may assign it to different SKU. SKUs are typically unique to a single retailer.

How can I use SKUs with Square?

If your business uses SKUs, you can add this number when creating your items online through the Square Dashboard or when importing your items through a CSV file.

You’ll be able to search for your items by typing in the SKU number or, if you have set up a barcode scanner, you will also be able to scan the SKU to find and add an item to sale.

How can I manage SKUs?

Managing SKUs effectively can help you to understand your business’ cost better and optimise your inventory purchasing.

For more information about how you can use SKUs for your business read this Town Square post: What is a SKU and How Should You Use it?

If you have any question or tips to share, let us know in the comment below ✏️

thread What’s a SKU and How Should You Use It? in Orders, Menu Items, Catalog & Fulfilment

What’s a SKU and How Should You Use It?

What’s the difference between SKU and UPC?

How can I use SKUs with Square?

How can I manage SKUs?