How to Import and Create SKUs in Luminous

Efficient SKU management is key to organizing your inventory. Follow this step-by-step guide to import and create SKUs in Luminous.

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Method 1: Import SKUs (Preferred Method)

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Step 1: Access the Import Tool

1. Navigate to Tools:
   • In the bottom left corner of the screen, click on Tools and then select Imports.
2. Select Import Master SKUs:
   
   • In the top left, click the button labeled Import Master SKUs.

Step 2: Prepare the Import Template

1. Download the Template:
   • In the top right corner, click Export SKUs to download a template.
2. Fill Out the Required Fields:
   • The following fields are mandatory:
     • SKU
     • Product Name
     • Product Category
   • Additional data fields you can include for better setup:
     • Reorder Points
     • Wholesale Price
     • Retail Price
     • Average Unit Cost
3. Ensure Data Quality:
   • Double-check the data for accuracy to avoid errors during import.

Step 3: Upload the File

1. Choose the File:
   • Click Add New Master SKUs to open the import tool.
   • Enable the option to Automatically Create Categories and Tags if needed.
   • Select the Excel file containing your SKU data.
2. Map the Columns:
   • Match the columns in your file to the required fields in Luminous:
     • Map the SKU field.
     • Map the Product Name field.
     • Map the Category field.
   • Fill out any additional columns for enhanced SKU setup.
3. Verify and Import:
   • Ensure all data is clean and accurate before proceeding with the import.
   • Remember: Garbage in, garbage out—importing clean data is critical for smooth operations.

Method 2: Manually Add SKUs

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Step 1: Access the Inventory and SKUs Page

1. Navigate to the Inventory and SKUs page in the system.

Step 2: Add a New SKU

1. Click Create:
   • In the top section of the page, click Create to open the SKU creation form.
2. Fill Out SKU Details:
   • Enter the required fields: SKU, Product Name, and Product Category.
   • Add any additional details like pricing, reorder points, and unit costs if available.
3. Save the SKU:
   • Once all fields are filled out, save the new SKU to add it to the system.

Best Practices for Importing and Creating SKUs

• Always ensure the data you input is accurate and well-organized.
• Include as much information as possible in the initial setup for a comprehensive database.
• Use the import method for bulk additions and manual entry for one-off SKUs.

Key Takeaways

• Importing is the preferred way to load your SKU catalog. It's faster and easier than adding SKUs one by one.
• Only three fields are required: SKU, Product Name and Product Category. But when you're first getting set up, the more data you include, the better.
• You don't have to use the Luminous template. You can upload any Excel file and map its columns.
• Turn on Automatically Create Categories and Tags so new categories in your file are created during the import.
• For one-off additions, use Create on the Inventory and SKUs page.

Clean SKU Data Checklist

Garbage in, garbage out: your SKU catalog feeds everything else in Luminous, from purchasing and reorder points to sales orders and reporting. Before you import, check that:

• Every SKU is unique, with no duplicates or near-duplicates (for example, extra spaces or different capitalization).
• SKUs match what you use on your sales channels, so orders and inventory map cleanly.
• Product names are clear and consistent, so your team can tell similar products apart.
• Categories follow one naming convention, so you don't end up with "Apparel" and "apparel" as separate categories.
• Prices and average unit costs are current, so margins and inventory value are right from day one.
• Reorder points are realistic for each product, so replenishment suggestions are useful.

Common Questions

Do I have to use the Luminous import template? No. The template is helpful, but you can upload any Excel file and map its columns to the Luminous fields.

What if a category in my file doesn't exist yet? Turn on the option to automatically create categories and tags, and Luminous will create them during the import.

Can I add a single SKU without importing? Yes. Go to the Inventory and SKUs page and click Create.

Related videos: Managing Master and Variant SKUs in Luminous and How to Set Up and Manage Kits in Luminous.

By following these steps, you can quickly and effectively manage your SKU catalog in Luminous.