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Building a Reliable SKU System

Create internal product identifiers that remain useful when suppliers or flavors change.

Keep identifiers stable

An internal SKU should identify your record rather than copying a supplier code. Use a consistent prefix and sequence, and avoid embedding details likely to change, such as a temporary price.

Separate product and option

Use one product-level SKU for the core listing and option identifiers for size or count when operationally necessary. Flavor can remain a selectable attribute when it does not change cost, packaging, or fulfillment.

Maintain a crosswalk

Keep supplier identifiers, lot numbers, internal SKUs, and catalog names in a controlled reference. Never overwrite historical mappings when a product is replaced.

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