SKU vs Barcode: What's the Difference in 2023?
In this article we will explore the unique characteristics of SKUs and barcodes and explore the key differences between an SKU and a barcode. Read on to learn more.
What is an SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)?
An SKU, or Stock Keeping Unit, is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to each product in a retailer's inventory. SKUs are commonly found on price tags, receipts, and inventory management systems.
Unique Characteristics of SKUs:
Internal Use: SKUs are primarily for internal use within a business to track and manage inventory.
Customizable: Retailers can create SKUs based on their own organizational needs, often incorporating product details like size, color, and style.
Not Universal: SKUs are specific to a particular business and may vary widely across different retailers.
Hierarchical: SKUs can be structured hierarchically, allowing for categorization and easy organization.
What is a Barcode?
A barcode is a graphical representation of data in the form of parallel lines, dots, or shapes that can be scanned and decoded to provide information about a product. Barcodes are commonly found on product packaging, labels, and in retail environments.
Unique Characteristics of Barcodes:
Universal Application: Barcodes are standardized and used worldwide, making them universally recognizable.
Machine-Readable: Barcodes are designed for easy scanning by barcode scanners or mobile devices.
Limited Information: Barcodes typically contain limited information, such as product identification numbers.
Exterior Use: Barcodes are meant to be visible on the exterior of products for quick identification at checkout.
What is the Difference Between an SKU and a Barcode?
Nature
SKU: SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) is a textual and alphanumeric identifier.
Barcode: Barcode is a graphical representation of data in the form of lines, dots, or shapes that can be scanned.
Visibility
SKU: SKUs are usually not visible to customers.
Barcode: Barcodes are prominently displayed on products and are meant to be visible for scanning.
Customization
SKU: SKUs can be customized and often vary between businesses.
Barcode: Barcodes follow universal standards and are not customizable in the same way SKUs are.
Information Depth
SKU: SKUs can include extensive product details, such as size, color, and style.
Barcode:Barcodes typically contain limited information, often just a product identification number.
Primary Use
SKU: SKUs are primarily used for internal inventory tracking and management.
Barcode: Barcodes are designed for rapid product identification at the point of sale.
Universal vs. Proprietary
SKU: SKUs can vary significantly between different retailers and businesses.
Barcode: Barcodes are standardized and universal, consistent across industries and businesses.
We hope that our SKU vs Barcode article has now left you with a better understanding of the main differences between SKUs and Barcodes.
