Compare the product code, variant, description, image, and physical quantity before deciding that two catalogue entries are duplicates. Similar names may refer to different sizes, conditions, or models, so do not merge records based on wording alone.
Pause the entries that may conflict, count the actual stock, and check open orders or reservations. Choose one record to maintain only after confirming that both records describe the same sellable item. Preserve the original codes in a dated note for reference.
Update links and staff instructions to point to the surviving record, then verify its price and availability. Keep a short audit trail showing which entry was retired and why. Review the process that created the duplicate so the same product is not re-entered under a second name. Reconcile both active links before directing staff to the retained listing.
