UPC and SKU codes both identify items in Flowhub, but serve different purposes. UPCs live on the Product, SKUs live on the Inventory.
Flowhub uses both UPC and SKU codes to keep your Inventory accurate and your checkout flow smooth. In this article, we'll guide you through the difference between the two, where each one lives in Flowhub, and how your team can use them at the register.
Understand the Difference Between UPC and SKU
A Universal Product Code (UPC) is a standardized, globally recognized code printed on a product's packaging. It stays the same throughout that product's life, and it lives at the Product level in Flowhub. Some cannabis items will have a UPC depending on your supplier or vendor.
A Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) is a unique code used to track Inventory. SKUs are typically generated at the dispensary and change with each Package or Batch. SKUs live at the Inventory level in Flowhub. If you don't add a SKU when creating Inventory, Flowhub will generate one for you.
💡 Note: Flowhub cannot print UPC barcodes, but Flowhub can print SKU barcodes for your Inventory.
Add a UPC to a Product
Select the Menu in the upper left corner.
Select Inventory.
Select Products across the purple bar at the top.
Search for the Product you want to add a UPC to.
Select Edit in the right panel.
Scroll down and add the UPC.
Select Save.
Add a SKU to Inventory
Select the Menu in the upper left corner.
Select Inventory.
Select Inventory across the purple bar at the top.
Search for the Inventory you want to add a SKU to.
Select Edit in the right panel.
Scroll down to the bottom and add the SKU.
If you leave this field blank, Flowhub will generate a SKU for you.
Select Save.
Print a SKU Barcode
Navigate to Inventory (or Cashier) and find the item you want to print a barcode for.
Select View Details to the right of the Post-Tax Price.
On the Details window that displays, select Labels at the top.
Select your Label Type and the # of Copies you want to print, then select Print Label at the bottom.
Check Out with UPC or SKU
When an item has both a UPC at the Product level and a SKU at the Inventory level, your team can scan either to add it to the cart.
Scanning a UPC: All Inventory built from that Product will display as options to add to the cart. A batch selection window will display so you can choose the correct Inventory item.
If multiple batches are available, you'll be prompted to select the product you'd like to add to the cart.
Scanning a SKU: Only the one Inventory item tied to that SKU will populate to add to the cart.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't add a SKU when creating Inventory?
Flowhub will automatically generate a SKU for you. You don't need to create one manually unless you want a specific format.
Can I print a UPC barcode from Flowhub?
No. UPCs come from the manufacturer and are printed on the original packaging. Flowhub can only print SKU barcodes.
Why does scanning a UPC show multiple options at checkout?
A single Product (with one UPC) can have multiple Inventory items (each with its own SKU) built from it. Scanning the UPC shows all matching inventory, so you can pick the correct batch.
What's the difference between Regulatory ID and SKU?
The SKU is your dispensary's internal tracking code. The Regulatory ID (when displayed) ties back to your state's compliance system. Both can appear in the batch selection window during checkout.
You did it! 🙌
You now know how UPC and SKU codes work in Flowhub, where each one lives, and how to use them confidently at checkout.