Both features help generate SKUs, but they work differently and are used for different purposes.
🏷️ SKU Prefix
A SKU Prefix simply adds text to the beginning of every SKU.
Example
Prefix:
BOOK-
Generated SKU:
BOOK-123456
Best For:
Simple inventory organization
Identifying inventory categories
Separating FBA and MF inventory
Distinguishing different suppliers or warehouses
Pros:
✅ Quick and easy to set up
✅ Consistent SKU identification
✅ Minimal configuration
⚙️ Custom SKU Template
A Custom SKU Template lets you build the entire SKU format using different pieces of information.
Example
Template:
{ASIN}-{CONDITION}-{SEQUENCE}Generated SKU:
B000123456-VG-0001
Another example:
{CONDITION}-{DATE}-{SEQUENCE}Generated SKU:
LN-05252026-0001
Best For:
Advanced inventory tracking
Including condition codes
Including dates or locations
Custom warehouse workflows
Pros:
✅ Highly customizable
✅ More inventory information in the SKU
✅ Better for large-scale operations
📊 Key Difference
SKU Prefix | Custom SKU Template |
Adds text to the start of a SKU | Controls the entire SKU structure |
Simple setup | Advanced customization |
One identifier | Multiple inventory data points |
Best for basic organization | Best for detailed tracking |
💡 Which Should You Use?
Use a SKU Prefix if:
You just want SKUs to start with a specific code
You need simple organization
You want minimal setup
Use a Custom SKU Template if:
You want SKUs to include condition, date, location, or other details
You need a structured inventory system
You manage large volumes of inventory