Manufacturer part number (MPN)
Also called manufacturer’s part number
Reviewed by Dasha ShakovVP Marketing, Proton
Updated
What is manufacturer part number (MPN)?
A manufacturer part number (MPN) is the code a manufacturer uses to identify a specific product, printed in its catalogs and often on the product itself. Customers frequently order by MPN, so each stocked SKU in a distributor’s ERP normally carries the matching MPN; private-label items and kits may have none.
Manufacturer part number (MPN) example
A customer emails three part numbers copied from the labels on worn-out parts, and the CSR finds the matching SKUs by searching the ERP by MPN.
Related terms
- Stock keeping unit (SKU)A stock keeping unit (SKU) is the unique code a distributor gives each item it sells, so each size, color and pack can be stocked and priced separately.
- Universal Product Code (UPC)A Universal Product Code (UPC) is the 12-digit number in the barcode on a product’s packaging, assigned by the brand owner through GS1.
- Cross-referenceA cross-reference is a lookup table that links a distributor’s SKUs to other numbers for the same or an equivalent item.
- SupersessionSupersession is a manufacturer’s replacement of an old part number with a new one for the same or an improved part.
