Locker Key Number Guide UK

A locker key number is the code used to identify a replacement locker key. It may be stamped on the key, engraved on the lock face or recorded in a site key register.

This guide explains where to find a locker key number, what it means, why it matters and how to avoid ordering the wrong replacement key.

Quick answer: what is a locker key number?

A locker key number is a code that helps identify the correct replacement key for a locker lock. It is usually found on the key head, the lock face or in the organisation’s key records. Without the correct number, the wrong key may be supplied.

Where to check	What to look for
Key head	Stamped or printed number
Lock face	Number around or below the key slot
Spare key records	Locker number matched to key number
Master key chart	Lock series and key range
Old order paperwork	Previous key code or lock reference

Why locker key numbers matter

Locker key numbers help match a key to a specific lock series. They reduce guesswork, speed up replacement orders and help facilities teams manage large locker estates.

They are especially important in schools, gyms, leisure centres, workplaces, warehouses, hospitals and staff changing rooms where many lockers may look the same.

• They help identify the right replacement locker key.
• They reduce the risk of ordering the wrong key.
• They support key control across multiple locker banks.
• They help match lockers to users, rooms and departments.
• They make maintenance and lock replacement easier.

Where is the locker key number?

The key number is usually marked in one of several places. Always check both the key and the lock before ordering.

On the key

Many locker keys have the number stamped or printed on the head of the key. This is often the easiest place to find it.

On the lock face

Some locker locks show the number on the visible front of the lock. It may appear above, below or around the key slot.

On the lock barrel

Some lock barrels have a code on the side or rear. This may only be visible after the lock is removed from the locker door.

In a key register

Larger sites often keep a key register. This should record the locker number, room location, lock type, key number and spare key status.

Locker number vs locker key number

A locker number and a locker key number are not always the same. The locker number identifies the door or compartment. The key number identifies the key or lock code.

Item	Meaning	Example use
Locker number	The number on the locker door	Locker 24 in changing room A
Key number	The number used to cut or identify the key	Replacement key request
Lock series	The lock range or manufacturer system	Compatibility check
Master key number	A management key reference	Site access control

Do not assume locker 24 uses key 24. Some sites are arranged that way, but many are not.

How to read a locker key number

Locker key numbers may include numbers, letters or a combination of both. The format depends on the lock manufacturer and key series.

• Check every character carefully.
• Look for letters that may look like numbers.
• Check whether the code starts with a prefix.
• Do not ignore small stamped marks.
• Take a clear photo if the number is worn.

Common mistakes include confusing O with 0, I with 1, S with 5 and B with 8.

What if the key number is worn?

If the number is worn, try viewing it under bright light from different angles. A close-up photo can also help. Sometimes a shallow stamped mark becomes clearer when photographed from the side.

• Clean the key gently.
• Use good lighting.
• Take several close-up photos.
• Check the lock face for the same number.
• Check spare key records or old order details.

What if the key is lost?

If the key is lost, check the lock face. Many locker locks have a number on the front. This may be enough to identify the replacement key.

If no number is visible, take clear photos of the lock face, locker door and rear of the lock if accessible. You may need a replacement lock if the key number cannot be identified.

What if there is no number on the lock?

Some locks have no visible key number. In that case, identification becomes harder. The lock brand, keyway shape, cam type and lock body may help, but a new lock may be the most practical solution.

For this situation, use our How to Identify Your Locker Lock UK guide before ordering.

How to order replacement locker keys

Before ordering replacement locker keys, collect the correct details. This reduces delays and helps confirm whether a key can be supplied.

• Key number.
• Lock number if visible.
• Locker number.
• Lock brand if known.
• Clear photo of the key.
• Clear photo of the lock face.
• Number of keys required.
• Delivery address and contact details.

You can start from our replacement locker keys page.

Locker key number checklist

Check	Complete?
Key number recorded clearly	Yes / No
Lock face number checked	Yes / No
Locker number recorded separately	Yes / No
Lock brand checked	Yes / No
Photo taken of key	Yes / No
Photo taken of lock	Yes / No
Quantity confirmed	Yes / No

Common locker key number mistakes

Most wrong-key problems come from unclear numbers, mixed-up locker numbers or missing lock series information.

Mistake	How to avoid it
Using the locker door number as the key number	Check the key or lock face code
Misreading worn digits	Send a clear close-up photo
Ignoring letters in the code	Record the full code exactly
Ordering from an old list	Check the current lock fitted to the door
Mixing up several locker banks	Record room and locker location

Should you replace the key or the lock?

If the lock works and the number is known, a replacement key is usually the first option. If the lock is damaged, seized, forced, obsolete or has no readable number, replacing the lock may be better.

For lock replacement, see our Locker Lock Replacement Guide UK and locker locks range.

Locker key numbers for schools

Schools often handle many lost keys during the year. A clear key number register helps site teams replace keys quickly and avoid changing locks unnecessarily.

• Record student locker numbers separately from key numbers.
• Keep spare keys controlled.
• Track lost key history.
• Check lock condition during term breaks.
• Standardise locks where practical.

Locker key numbers for gyms and leisure centres

Gyms, pools and leisure centres may use keyed locks, coin locks, wristband locks or RFID systems. Key numbers are most relevant where traditional keyed locker locks are fitted.

Where coin or RFID locks are used, the site may need replacement wristbands, master keys, service keys or lock components instead of standard replacement keys.

Locker key numbers for workplaces

Workplaces often need replacement keys for staff lockers, PPE lockers, changing rooms, uniform lockers and personal storage areas. A key register can reduce delays when staff leave, change roles or lose access.

Create a locker key register

A locker key register is a simple record that links each locker to its key details. It is useful for facilities managers, site teams, estates teams and office managers.

Field	Purpose
Locker number	Identifies the locker door
Location	Shows building, room or area
Key number	Supports replacement key ordering
Lock type	Shows whether the lock uses a key, hasp, coin or code
Spare key held	Confirms whether a spare exists
User or department	Supports allocation control
Last checked	Supports audits and maintenance

Internal links for this topic

• Locker Keys UK – replacement locker keys and ordering support.
• How to Identify Your Locker Lock UK – identify lock type, cam and key details.
• Locker Locks – replacement locks and lock options.
• Locker Lock Replacement Guide UK – when to replace the full lock.
• Locker Lock Compatibility Guide UK – check lock fit before ordering.
• Locker Key Management Systems UK – manage keys across larger sites.

FAQ: locker key numbers

Is the locker number the same as the key number?

Not always. The locker number identifies the door. The key number identifies the key or lock code. Always check the key or lock face before ordering.

Can I order a replacement locker key from the lock number?

In many cases, yes. If the lock face has a readable key number, it may be possible to supply a replacement key.

What should I do if my locker key number is unreadable?

Take clear photos of the key and lock face. Check old records and spare keys. If the number cannot be identified, replacing the lock may be the best option.

Why did my replacement locker key not work?

The wrong number may have been supplied, the code may have been misread, the lock may have been changed or the barrel may be worn or damaged.

Should every site keep a locker key register?

Yes, especially where there are many lockers. A register helps manage spare keys, lost keys, lock replacement and access control.

Need replacement locker keys?

Total Locker Service can help with replacement locker keys, locker lock identification, spare keys and replacement lock options. Record the key number clearly and include photos where possible.