To generate a custom SKU for every configuration on Shopify, build a SKU template in Custom SKU rules, give each choice a short code, and let the calculator assemble the rest. With Appify Custom Product Options, a wood blind at 36 by 48 becomes BLD-WD-36x48. Nobody types it.
Made-to-order products have more combinations than anyone wants to list as variants. A code built from the shopper's own choices gives every build a name your team can read. It is useful for fulfillment and inventory tracking.
What does a generated SKU look like?
The code is the template with each part filled in from what the shopper chose. Here are two examples.
| Product | SKU composition | What the shopper chose | Generated SKU |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apparel | TEE-{{SIZE}}-{{COLOR}} |
Size fragment LG, Color fragment BLK | TEE-LG-BLK |
| Custom window blinds | BLD-{{MATERIAL}}-{{DIM1}}x{{DIM2}} |
Material fragment WD, dimensions 36 x 48 | BLD-WD-36x48 |
Change a choice and the code changes with it. A different size or material gives a different SKU.
How do you set it up?
- Open the section. In the calculator editor, go to Optional Features, then Custom SKU rules.
- Build the SKU composition. Use the Insert menus to add parts, and join them with separators such as dashes.
- Set a SKU fragment on each choice. For dropdowns, swatches, radio lists and other choice options, open Edit option, then Basic Settings, and fill in SKU fragment. That short code replaces the option's token in the template.
- Decide if shoppers see it. Turn on Show SKU in cart if you want the code displayed.
- Check the result. The computed SKU for your current preview choices shows at the bottom of the section.
What can go into the template?
Each Insert menu adds one kind of part.
| Menu | Adds | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| Insert option | A token such as {{MATERIAL}}
|
The SKU fragment of the choice the shopper picked |
| Insert dimensions |
{{DIM1}} and {{DIM2}}
|
The dimension values, as in 36x48 |
| Insert variable | {{VAR:name}} |
A variable token, for parts that are not an option or a dimension |
One product, a code for every build. You set a short fragment on each choice once, and the calculator assembles the code for every combination. For why the variant route runs out, see what to use instead of variants for custom products.
How do you keep the codes readable?
A code only helps if your team can read it at a glance.
- Start with a product prefix. TEE and BLD tell you the product before anything else.
- Keep fragments short. WD and BLK are easier to scan than Wood and Black.
- Use separators. Dashes between choices and an x between the two dimensions, as the blinds example does.
- Keep the order the same across a product family. If every sign code runs prefix, material, size, people learn to read them.
Where does the shopper see the SKU?
Show SKU in cart is optional. When it is on, the generated SKU appears in the customer's cart alongside the order details.
While you build, you don't need a shopper to test it. Change the preview choices in the editor and watch the computed SKU at the bottom of the Custom SKU rules section update.
Set the fragments with Chat with AI
Chat with AI can change SKU fragments by name, so you don't have to open every choice. A starting prompt:
"On the Material option, set the SKU fragment for Wood to WD and for Aluminum to AL. On the Size option, set the fragment for Large to LG."
Then open Custom SKU rules and read the computed SKU for a few combinations. Fix any code that doesn't look right before you publish.
Where to go next
- Pricing custom boxes and packaging by dimensions shows a product where size drives the build.
- Pricing by size, quantity and pricing table covers the price side of the same options.
- Showing custom options on order emails and packing slips covers what your team sees of an order.
- Product options vs variants explains when each one fits.
FAQ
How do I generate a custom SKU for each product configuration on Shopify?
Build a SKU composition in Custom SKU rules and set a SKU fragment on each choice. The calculator fills in the template from the shopper's selections.
What can I put in a SKU template?
Options, dimensions and variables. Each has its own Insert menu, and you join the parts with separators.
Can customers see the generated SKU?
Yes, if you turn on Show SKU in cart. The code then appears in the cart alongside the order details.
Do I have to write a SKU for every combination?
No. You set a short fragment on each choice and a template once. The calculator builds the code from what the shopper picked.
Can Chat with AI set the SKU fragments?
Yes. Ask it to set the fragment on each choice by name, then check the computed SKU in the editor.
How do I test a SKU before launch?
Change the preview choices in the editor. The computed SKU at the bottom of Custom SKU rules updates to match.
Every configuration, with its own code.
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