A product variant is a distinct purchasable version of a product defined by attributes such as size, color, material or configuration. Each variant may have its own SKU, price, inventory and fulfillment data.
How are variants structured?
A parent product groups shared information, while variant records store the combinations customers can select. A shirt may have size and color attributes that create separate purchasable variants.
Variant vs. option
An option is a selectable attribute value. A variant is the resulting combination that is stocked or ordered. Not every option combination must be valid.
Which data belongs at variant level?
- SKU or item identifier
- Barcode
- Price and cost
- Inventory and location
- Weight and dimensions
- Images or specification differences
What problems occur with variants?
Uncontrolled combinations create duplicate SKUs, inaccurate inventory and poor search. Product rules should block combinations that cannot be manufactured or fulfilled.
How should variants be governed?
Use consistent attribute names and values, stable identifiers and lifecycle status. Preserve discontinued variants in transaction history without leaving them orderable.
