Stock Keeping Unit (SKU)
A Stock Keeping Unit is a number or code used to identify a type of item that is for sale. This number helps the vendor keep an accurate inventory as well as relevant information on the item. Each SKU is assigned at the merchant’s level, and is therefore different from the manufacturer’s or other parties in the supply chain. SKUs are also assigned for each variant of an item. If a costume comes in small, medium, and large, there are three different SKUs for the same costume. This number helps merchants locate availability and location on the item in question.