If you’re running an ecommerce business, you may have heard the term SKU and felt confused.

What is an SKU?

Do small businesses really need it?

The answer is yes — but it’s much simpler than it sounds.

This blog explains SKU management for beginners, in an easy and practical way.

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What Is an SKU?

SKU stands for Stock Keeping Unit.

It is a unique code used to identify each product or product variant in your inventory.

Example:

• Red T-Shirt, Size M → SKU: TS-RED-M

• Blue T-Shirt, Size L → SKU: TS-BLU-L

Each variation gets its own SKU.

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Why SKUs Are Important for Small Sellers

SKUs help you:

• Identify products quickly

• Track stock accurately

• Avoid sending wrong items

• Manage returns easily

• Understand best-selling products

Without SKUs, inventory becomes confusing as orders increase.

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Do Beginners Really Need SKU Management?

Yes — especially if you sell:

• More than 5–10 products

• Products with size or color variants

• Both online and offline

Even small stores benefit from basic SKU usage.

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Common SKU Mistakes Beginners Make

Many new sellers:

• Don’t use SKUs at all

• Use random numbers

• Reuse the same SKU for different products

• Don’t link SKUs to variants

This leads to inventory errors and wrong shipments.

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How to Create Simple SKUs (Beginner Method)

You don’t need complex systems.

Use this simple format:

Product + Attribute + Variant

Examples:

• TSH-BLK-M (T-shirt, Black, Medium)

• KUR-RED-L (Kurti, Red, Large)

• RICE-1KG (Rice, 1kg pack)

Keep SKUs:

• Short

• Logical

• Easy to understand

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One SKU = One Product Variant

Rule to remember:

Each variant must have its own SKU.

This ensures:

• Correct stock tracking

• Accurate order processing

• Easy reporting

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How SKU Management Improves Inventory Control

With SKUs, you can:

• Track stock per variant

• Identify fast-moving items

• Spot low-stock products

• Reduce mistakes

SKUs bring structure to your inventory.

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Managing SKUs Without Spreadsheets

In 2025, you don’t need Excel files.

Modern ecommerce platforms allow you to:

• Assign SKUs while adding products

• Auto-update stock after each order

• View SKU-wise reports

Everything stays organized automatically.

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How Bechna Makes SKU Management Easy

Bechna is built for beginners:

• Easy SKU fields while adding products

• Variant-level SKU assignment

• Automatic inventory updates

• Mobile-friendly dashboard

• No technical knowledge required

Perfect for small Indian sellers.

https://bechna.app/