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What Is a SKU Prefix?

A SKU prefix is a short identifier added to the beginning of a SKU to help organize, categorize, and quickly identify inventory.

A SKU Prefix is a short code automatically added to the beginning of your SKUs to help organize and identify your inventory.

Instead of creating completely custom SKUs, a prefix simply adds a label before the SKU number or identifier.


🏷️ Example

If your SKU prefix is:

BOOK-

Your SKUs may look like:

BOOK-123456
BOOK-123457
BOOK-123458

Or if your prefix is:

MEDIA-

The SKU might become:

MEDIA-987654

💡 Why Use a SKU Prefix?

SKU prefixes help you:

  • Identify inventory sources

  • Separate inventory by category

  • Distinguish different warehouses or locations

  • Keep SKUs organized and easier to recognize

For example:

  • BOOK- for books

  • DVD- for DVDs

  • MF- for Merchant Fulfilled inventory

  • FBA- for FBA inventory


⚙️ When Should You Use One?

Use a SKU prefix when you want a simple way to organize inventory without creating a complex custom SKU format.

It's especially useful for sellers who:

  • Manage multiple inventory types

  • Sell across different marketplaces

  • Want easier SKU identification at a glance

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