Skip to content
Stowage.id
Start free
Vessel Stowage Every vessel type 3D PlannerToolsFreightDirectoryGuidesAcademyPricingPortsShipping linesGlossaryInsightsJobsDevelopersFor vendors
Log in Bahasa Indonesia
Warehousing & packing

SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)

In Indonesian: SKU (unit penyimpanan stok) Abbreviation: SKU

An SKU is the unique code for each item variant a warehouse manages, such as a combination of product, size, colour and pack. SKU master data should include carton dimensions and weight, units per carton and the pallet pattern. That data feeds cartons-per-pallet, CBM and container load planning calculations. Wrong SKU dimensions will throw a load plan off.

Related terms

  • Warehouse Management System (WMS)

    A WMS is software that runs warehouse operations: receiving, putaway to rack locations, order picking, packing and dispatch.

  • Packing List

    A packing list itemises a shipment package by package: package numbers, packaging type, contents, net and gross weights, dimensions and shipping marks.

  • FIFO (First In, First Out)

    FIFO is a stock rotation rule where goods that entered the warehouse first are shipped first.

  • Palletizing

    Palletizing is arranging cartons or goods on a pallet so that a forklift can move them as one unit.

Covered in these guides

Load calculations

How Many Cartons Fit in a Container? 20ft, 40ft and 40HC Calculation

Work out how many cartons fit in a container with per-axis grid math, orientation, a payload weight check, stacking strength and mixed-SKU loads.

6 min read

← Back to glossary

Try it in the 3D Planner

Enter your cargo dimensions and weights, pick a container or truck, and see the load layout, utilisation and centre of gravity in 3D. Free, no sign-up.

Open 3D Planner Browse free tools

Load planning simulation. Not a substitute for official weighing, VGM, the vessel loading computer, or operator approval.