Ecommerce · SKU
SKU generator.
One line per variant: category first, then attributes. Pick a separator, code length and sequence rule, and get consistent SKUs with duplicates and over-length codes flagged.
How the SKUs are built
Each cell becomes a short uppercase code (accents removed, symbols dropped; a multi-word cell uses its initials), joined with your separator, followed by a zero-padded sequence number. With “counts up within each category”, Hoodie | Black | L and Hoodie | Grey | M give HOO-BLA-L-001 and HOO-GRE-M-002. Numbers already used in your existing list are skipped, and duplicates inside the batch are flagged. Exported cells that start with =, +, - or @ are prefixed so a spreadsheet will not run them as formulas.
A SKU is your own internal stock code. It is not a GTIN: do not use a UPC or EAN as a SKU unless you accept that your stock code then depends on a number GS1 assigned. See the SKU naming convention guide for the reasoning behind the defaults.
Sources retrieved October 2026. Conventions are practical bookkeeping advice, not a standard. The GTIN/SKU distinction is from the GS1 General Specifications (GTINs identify trade items). Check your platform’s own SKU rules before importing.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a good SKU?
Short, readable, unique, and stable: the same product keeps the same SKU for life. Put the most general part first (category) and the most specific last (sequence).
Should the SKU include the size and colour?
It helps pickers and support staff read it, which is why attributes come before the sequence here. If a product is renamed, keep the SKU anyway.
Is a SKU the same as a barcode?
No. A SKU is your internal code. A barcode (UPC/EAN/GTIN) is a public identifier on the product. A listing can have both.
Why are duplicates flagged?
Short codes can collide: at 2 letters, Black and Blue both become BL. A sequence number removes collisions; so do longer codes.
Is my product list uploaded?
No. Everything runs in this page and the page loads no third-party scripts.
More identifier tools
SKU naming convention guide · Variant & SKU collision checker · EAN-13 / UPC-A check digit validator · UPC-A barcode generator · Amazon GTIN exemption guide · Bulk barcode label generator