SKU and barcode, what's the difference?

Every item can have a barcode and an SKU. They look alike, but they do different things.

The barcode

The barcode is a row of digits with bars. You scan it at the register. There are three ways to get one:

• Let EasyConsign make one. Leave the field empty. The item gets a barcode as soon as you print its label.
• Scan the barcode that's already on it. New goods often have one on the tag. Click in the field and scan it, or type the digits.
• Use a loose barcode. Printed a stack of barcodes beforehand under Print loose barcodes? Stick one on the item and scan it into the field.

Every barcode EasyConsign makes is random. You never get the same one twice, not even if you print again later.

EasyConsign can't print barcodes with letters in them. Scanning them at the register does work.

The SKU

The SKU is your own item code, for example TK-00042. Handy if you keep a stock list or import items from another system. Make SKU gives you your shop's letters and the next number.

Tips for a good SKU:

• Use only capital letters, digits and hyphens. No spaces or slashes.
• Keep it to about 8 to 16 characters.
• Put the most general part first, for example COAT-WOOL-BLK-M for a black wool coat in size M.
• Never reuse an SKU, not even for items you no longer sell.
• Don't put anything in it that changes, like the price or the spot in the shop.
• Don't start with a 0 if you use Excel. Excel removes leading zeros.

Which one should I use?

Want to scan at the register? Then you need a barcode. The SKU is for your own records. Not sure? Let Make SKU come up with the code and let EasyConsign make the barcode.