Locker Key Numbers: How to Identify the Correct Code Before Ordering

Before ordering new locker keys, the most important step is identifying the correct key number or lock code. A clear number helps avoid wrong keys, delays and unnecessary lock changes.

This guide explains where locker key numbers are usually found, how to check whether the number is usable, when a key can normally be cut from a code, and when replacing the lock is the safer option.

If you already have the correct key number and want to order, use our main locker keys and replacement locker keys cut to code page.

What is a locker key number?

A locker key number is a stamped, engraved or recorded code used to identify the key pattern for a specific lock series. It is not always the same as the locker door number, room number or user number.

For many locker systems, the key number allows a replacement key to be cut without removing the lock. The number must be read accurately, including any letters, prefixes or spacing.

Where to find the key number

The key number may appear in several places depending on the locker brand, lock type and how the site records are managed.

• Stamped on the original key
• Engraved or printed on the lock face
• Recorded in a site key register
• Listed in locker installation records
• Shown on a master key schedule
• Included in original locker documentation

If the number is unclear, worn or partly missing, avoid guessing. A single wrong digit or missing letter can result in the wrong key being supplied.

Key number, door number and locker number

The key number is not always the same as the locker number printed on the door. This is a common cause of ordering errors.

Number type	What it usually means	Can it identify the key?
Key number	The code stamped on the key	Usually yes
Lock code	The code shown on the lock face or barrel	Often yes
Locker door number	The locker position or user number	Usually no
Room or asset number	Internal site reference	No, unless linked to a key register
Master key number	Code for a master or management key	Not normally for user keys

If your site keeps a key register, check whether the locker number has been matched to a key number. This is especially useful for schools, leisure centres, offices and managed changing rooms.

When a key number is normally enough

A clear key number is often enough when the lock is still working, the locker has not been forced, and there is no security concern about the missing key.

Situation	Likely route	Reason
Spare key required	Use the key number	The original lock remains in use
Key damaged but number readable	Use the key number	The code can normally be copied from the marking
Key lost in low-risk setting	Use the key number if security risk is low	The lock may not need changing
Site record confirms the code	Use the recorded number	The register can identify the correct key

Once the number has been checked, visit the main locker key ordering page and select the correct brand or key series.

When to replace the lock instead

Ordering another key is not always the best decision. A new lock may be safer where the missing key could still open a locker used for personal, valuable or sensitive items.

• The key may have been stolen
• The lock has been forced or damaged
• All keys are missing and no code is available
• The key number is unreadable or unreliable
• The locker is used for higher-risk storage
• The site wants to prevent an old key from working

If the lock itself needs replacing, use our locker locks and replacement lock parts page or read the locker lock replacement guide.

What to check before ordering

Before ordering from any code, check the marking carefully. Many key ranges use similar-looking numbers, letters or prefixes.

1. Read the full number from the key or lock face.
2. Check whether the code includes letters as well as numbers.
3. Confirm the locker brand or lock manufacturer if known.
4. Check the lock still turns and has not been damaged.
5. Confirm whether the missing key is a security risk.
6. Record the new key issue in your site key register.

For compatibility checks, see our locker lock compatibility guide.

If the number is missing or unclear

If no usable number can be found, the next step depends on the lock condition, site records and risk level. Do not assume the locker door number is enough unless your records link it to a key code.

Problem	What to check	Likely next step
No number on the key	Check the lock face and site records	Use the recorded code or replace the lock
Number partly worn	Compare against old records or spare keys	Confirm before ordering
Door number only	Check if the door number is linked to a key schedule	Do not order from door number alone
Lock damaged	Check the cam, barrel and fixing	Replace the lock

If the lock is old, worn or insecure, replacing the lock may be more reliable than trying to identify an uncertain key code.

Site records and key control

Good key records reduce downtime and prevent repeated ordering mistakes. A simple key register should show the locker number, key number, user or department, issue date and return status.

• Record the key number separately from the locker door number
• Keep master keys and spare keys controlled
• Update records when lockers are moved or renumbered
• Log repeat losses by user, area or department
• Review whether keyed locks are still the best option for the site

For sites with frequent losses, compare alternatives in our keyed vs combination locker locks guide.

Notes for different sites

Schools

Schools often deal with frequent lost keys. A clear register linking pupil lockers to key numbers can reduce disruption and prevent unnecessary lock changes.

Workplaces

For staff lockers, keys should be issued and recovered during onboarding and offboarding. This reduces the risk of old keys remaining in circulation.

Leisure centres

Leisure and changing room environments often have higher key loss rates. Where losses are frequent, coin locks, hasp locks or combination locks may be worth reviewing.

Healthcare and managed sites

Where lockers are used for sensitive or controlled access areas, replace the lock if there is any credible risk that a missing key could be misused.

Reducing future key problems

Most key problems become easier to manage when the site keeps accurate records and reviews repeat loss patterns.

• Use engraved fobs or numbered key tags
• Keep a controlled spare key system
• Separate user keys from master keys
• Use clear issue and return procedures
• Replace damaged locks before they fail completely
• Consider non-keyed locks where key loss is frequent

For ongoing maintenance, see the locker lock maintenance guide.

Ready to order?

If you have confirmed the key number, lock code or correct key series, order through the main locker keys service page.

If you are unsure whether you need a key or a new lock, check the lock condition first and compare the guidance above before placing an order.

Related guides

• Locker lock compatibility guide
• Locker lock replacement guide
• Keyed vs combination locker locks
• Locker lock maintenance guide
• Master key locker systems

FAQ: locker key numbers and lock codes

Is the locker number the same as the key number?

Not always. The locker number usually identifies the door or position. The key number identifies the key pattern. Only use the locker number if your site records link it to a confirmed key code.

Can a key be made from a lock code?

Often yes, if the lock code is part of a known key series and can be read accurately. The full code, including any letters, should be checked before ordering.

What if the code is unreadable?

Check old keys, site records, spare keys or original locker documentation. If the code cannot be confirmed, replacing the lock may be more reliable.

Should I replace the lock after a lost key?

Replace the lock if the key may have been stolen, if the locker stores sensitive items, or if the site needs to prevent the old key from working.

What information should I record for future key control?

Record the locker number, key number, lock brand if known, user or department, issue date and return status. Keep spare keys and master keys controlled separately.