How to build a good SKU
- Use meaningful codes — category, brand, colour, size — so you can read a SKU at a glance.
- Keep it consistent — same order and separators across every product.
- Add a sequential number with zero-padding (001, 002…) so SKUs sort correctly.
- Avoid spaces and symbols that break spreadsheets, barcodes or listing imports.
Managing lots of listings? ZIK Analytics helps you find and list winning products faster across eBay, Shopify and more.
Frequently asked questions
What is a SKU?
A SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) is a unique code you assign to each product variant to track inventory. A good SKU is short, readable and built from meaningful attributes like category, brand, colour and size.
How should I format a SKU?
Use a consistent pattern of 2–4 letter codes plus a sequential number, separated by a dash — e.g. SHO-NIKE-BLK-001. Keep it under ~12 characters per segment and avoid spaces or special characters.
Can I generate SKUs in bulk?
Yes. Set the attributes, a starting number and a quantity, and the tool generates a sequential list you can copy straight into your spreadsheet or listing tool.