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How-it-works

The Duplicate SKU Sync app automatically keeps inventory levels synchronized across products that share the same SKU.

If multiple Shopify products represent the same physical item but have different product listings, the app ensures they always display the same available inventory.

Sync Modes

Duplicate SKU Sync offers two synchronization modes based on your business needs.

A. Limited Sync

Limited Sync updates duplicate SKUs when inventory changes occur through the app's supported workflows.

Inventory is synchronized when:

  • A Shopify order is placed.
  • A refund is processed.
  • An item is restocked using the app dashboard.

Note: Limited Sync does not synchronize inventory when stock is manually edited in Shopify Admin or updated through third-party apps or supplier transfers.

B. Full Sync

Full Sync provides real-time inventory synchronization across all duplicate SKUs.

Inventory is synchronized when:

  • A Shopify order is placed.
  • A refund is processed.
  • An item is restocked using the app dashboard.
  • Inventory is manually updated in Shopify Admin.
  • Inventory is updated by supported third-party apps.

This mode helps ensure all products sharing the same SKU remain synchronized, regardless of how the inventory changes.

Example

Suppose you have three products that all share the same SKU:

  • Product A
  • Product B
  • Product C

Each product represents the same physical item, and all start with an inventory of 100 units.

Limited Sync Example

  1. A customer purchases 10 units of Product A.
  2. Shopify reduces Product A's inventory to 90.
  3. Within about a minute, Duplicate SKU Sync updates:
    • Product B → 90
    • Product C → 90

All three products now display the same available inventory.

Full Sync Example

Initially:

  • Product A → 100
  • Product B → 100
  • Product C → 100

You manually change Product A's inventory to 90 in Shopify Admin.

Duplicate SKU Sync automatically detects the change and updates:

  • Product B → 90
  • Product C → 90

No manual intervention is required.

Benefits

  • Keeps duplicate SKUs synchronized automatically.
  • Reduces the risk of overselling.
  • Saves time by eliminating manual inventory updates.
  • Supports products stocked across multiple Shopify locations.
  • Includes quick inventory viewing and one-click restocking from the app dashboard.

Important Notes

  • The app supports up to 250 products per SKU.
  • Multi-location inventory synchronization is supported.
  • The app currently synchronizes only Shopify's Available inventory.
  • Shopify's newer inventory states (such as On Hand, Committed, Reserved, etc.) are not currently supported.
  • Inventory updates made through Shopify Transfers do not trigger synchronization because Shopify does not send webhook notifications for transfer events.