SKU means “stock-keeping unit.” It identifies a particular product or product variation for inventory and commerce purposes; an SKU or SKU number is an organizational identifier, not a universal product code. In professional writing, define the abbreviation when the audience or context could make the intended meaning unclear.
ReviewedEvidence1 sourceSectionWriting & Style
Quick answer
SKU means “stock-keeping unit”.
Key details
Core IssueSKU means “stock-keeping unit.” It identifies a particular product or product variation for inventory and commerce purposes; an SKU or SKU number is an organizational identifier, not a universal product code.
Phrase Roleinventory-abbreviation
Registerbusiness and professional writing as context requires
Important caveats
Usage Boundary
Do not assume an SKU is globally standardized or interchangeable with every barcode or manufacturer identifier; its use depends on the inventory system.
Further guidance
Meaning
SKU means “stock-keeping unit”
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
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