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How to Add Items with Manual PLU (Price Look-Up) Codes

This article outlines the process to create and configure manual PLU codes for items without UPC barcodes

Updated over 2 weeks ago

  • Manual PLU (Price Look-Up) codes are useful for items that cannot be scanned or do not have a UPC barcode

    • Common examples include deli items like sandwiches, coffee, or soup

💡 Tip: Manual PLU codes are entered into C-Store Essentials and can be linked to buttons on the Speed Key Menu of your point-of-sale register

Step-By-Step Process

  1. Go to C-Store Essentials Web Account

    • You can access C-Store Essentials by clicking here or going to https://secure.cstorepro.com

      • Click the “Forgot Password” button if you need help resetting your password

        A screenshot of a login form Description automatically generated

  2. Go to Pricebook Settings

    • On the left side of the screen click Price Book

    • Then click on Items

  3. Add a New Item

    • Click the Add New Item button to create a new item

  4. Enter PLU Code

    • Type a 4-digit PLU code and press Enter or click Lookup (e.g., 1001, 1002, 1003)

      • PLU Requirements

        • Must be a minimum of 4 digits starting at 1000

          • 0999 will not work

  5. Update the Required Details

    • Fill in the following mandatory fields:

      • Item Name

      • Department

      • Tax Type

      • Retail Price
        ​

  6. Save the Item

    • Click the Add Item and close button to save the changes.
      ​

  7. Push item to the register

    • Go to Price Book > Send to POS
      ​

    • Once added, the item will appear under send to POS page

    • Click on Send All Item Changes
      ​

    • Once done, the item will be added in a Queue on the same page and will be sent shortly to the register.
      ​

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a PLU code?

  • A PLU code is a manual identifier for items without UPC barcodes, typically used for non-prepackaged or custom items.

Can I create my own UPC code for scanning?

  • No. UPC codes must be registered through GS1 to ensure they are globally unique and scannable at the point-of-sale.

Can I skip setting a retail price when adding a PLU item?

  • No. Retail price is a mandatory field.

  • Make sure to assign an appropriate price to the item.

How do I link a PLU code to a Speed Key on my POS register?

  • After adding the PLU item in C-Store Essentials and sending it to the point-of-sale, configure the Speed Key settings directly on your point-of-sale register to correspond to the PLU code.

Can I create a random UPC number in C-Store Essentials?

  • No, you cannot create a random UPC number.

What makes a UPC number valid?

  • A valid UPC number must contain a GS1-assigned company or manufacturer prefix.

What is GS1?

  • GS1 is the global standards organization responsible for assigning company and manufacturer prefixes for UPC codes.

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