Top 10 Inventory Management Software Comparison
By Amanda Reyes | Published: 2024-07-26 | Category: Inventory Management Software
About Inventory Management Software
Inventory management software enables businesses to efficiently track stock levels across locations, manage orders, and automate purchasing. It provides visibility into inventory movements, helping to minimize carrying costs and prevent stockouts.
Scoring Criteria
- → Core Inventory Features
- → Order Management
- → Reporting & Analytics
- → Integrations
- → Ease of Use
- → Pricing
- → Customer Support
The Best Inventory Management Software
#10
Skubana (by Extensiv)
By Extensiv
Enterprise-level order and inventory management platform built for high-volume multi-channel sellers.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: High-Volume E-commerce, Multi-channel Retail, FBA Sellers, 3PL Integration
Key Features
- ✓Orderbots (Automation): Highly customizable automation rules for order routing, shipping, and inventory logic.
- ✓Profitability Analytics: Calculates true profitability per SKU, channel, and order considering all costs.
- ✓Cross-Channel Inventory Sync: Real-time synchronization across marketplaces, websites, POS, and warehouses.
- ✓Purchase Order Automation: Automated PO generation based on sophisticated forecasting algorithms.
Scorecard (Overall: 83.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom Quote
$1000.00 / monthly
- Full Platform
- Advanced Automation
- Profitability Tracking
- Dedicated Support
Limitations: Minimum order volume required, Geared towards enterprise clients
Pros
- + Powerful automation engine ('Orderbots')
- + Excellent multi-channel order management
- + Advanced profitability analytics
- + Scales well for high volume
Cons
- - High cost, suitable for larger sellers
- - Can be complex to implement fully
- - User interface may require training
Verdict
"A top-tier platform for large, complex e-commerce operations prioritizing automation and profitability analysis."
#9
Orderhive (by Extensiv)
By Extensiv
Cloud-based order, shipping, and inventory management software focused on e-commerce automation.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, Android
Best For: E-commerce Automation, Multi-channel Fulfillment, Wholesale, 3PL Management
Key Features
- ✓Multi-Warehouse Sync: Real-time inventory updates across all warehouses and sales channels.
- ✓Shipping Management: Integrates with multiple carriers, prints labels, tracks shipments.
- ✓Purchase Management: Automate PO creation based on low stock levels or sales velocity.
- ✓Automation Rules: Set up rules to automate order processing, tagging, and fulfillment tasks.
Scorecard (Overall: 79.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Lite
$50.00 / monthly
- Basic Inventory
- Order Sync
- Shipping Integrations
Limitations: Low order/SKU limits
Starter
$150.00 / monthly
- Higher Limits
- Batch & Serial Tracking
- Basic Automation
Limitations: User/Channel limits
Growth
$300.00 / monthly
- More Limits
- Kitting/Bundling
- Advanced Automation
- API Access
Pros
- + Strong focus on e-commerce workflows
- + Good automation capabilities
- + Competitive pricing tiers
- + Wide range of integrations
Cons
- - Inventory features less robust than dedicated manufacturing systems
- - Reporting can be basic
- - Customer support feedback is mixed
Verdict
"A capable solution for e-commerce businesses seeking efficient order and shipping management with solid inventory basics."
#8
Brightpearl
By Sage Group
Retail Operating System designed for larger omnichannel merchants, combining inventory, orders, financials, CRM, and WMS.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: High-volume Omnichannel Retail, Wholesale, Direct-to-Consumer Brands
Key Features
- ✓Automation Engine: Automate workflows across purchasing, order fulfillment, warehousing, and shipping.
- ✓Integrated Accounting: Built-in multi-currency accounting or deep integration with accounting software.
- ✓Demand Planner: Forecast demand and automate purchase order creation.
- ✓Advanced Warehouse Management: Supports multi-location, barcode scanning, and optimized pick/pack processes.
Scorecard (Overall: 82.1 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom Quote
$1500.00 / monthly
- Full Platform Access
- Dedicated Implementation
- Automation Tools
- Integrated Modules
Limitations: Minimum order volume requirements, Annual contract typical
Pros
- + Specifically built for high-volume retail
- + Powerful automation capabilities
- + Integrated system reduces need for multiple apps
- + Scalable infrastructure
Cons
- - Very expensive, targeted at larger businesses
- - Complex implementation process
- - Less flexible for non-retail business models
Verdict
"Ideal for established, high-growth omnichannel retailers needing a robust, automated back-office system."
#7
DEAR Systems (Cin7 Core)
By Cin7
Cloud ERP platform with strong inventory management, manufacturing, and accounting integration capabilities.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android (POS)
Best For: Manufacturing, Wholesale, E-commerce, Retail
Key Features
- ✓Advanced Manufacturing Module: Includes job costing, capacity planning, production scheduling, and BOM management.
- ✓Warehouse Management System (WMS): Mobile app for pick, pack, ship, stocktakes, and transfers.
- ✓B2B E-commerce Portal: Dedicated portal for wholesale customers to place orders.
- ✓Multi-currency Accounting: Integrates deeply with Xero and QuickBooks Online, handles multiple currencies.
Scorecard (Overall: 81.4 / 10.0)
Pricing
Standard
$325.00 / monthly
- Inventory Management
- Sales & Purchasing
- Accounting Integration
- Limited Users
Limitations: Manufacturing module is add-on, User limits
Advanced
Contact Vendor
- All Standard Features
- Manufacturing Module
- WMS
- B2B Portal
- More Users
Limitations: Requires custom quote based on needs
Pros
- + Comprehensive feature set, especially for manufacturing
- + Strong accounting integrations
- + Built-in WMS and B2B portal
- + Good scalability
Cons
- - Can be complex to configure
- - Pricing requires add-ons for full functionality
- - User interface can feel dense
Verdict
"A powerful choice for growing businesses, especially manufacturers and wholesalers needing integrated accounting and operations."
#6
inFlow Inventory
By inFlow
Inventory management software available as cloud or on-premise, catering to small and mid-sized businesses.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, Windows, iOS, Android
Best For: Retail, Wholesale, Light Manufacturing, Service & Repair
Key Features
- ✓Barcode Generation & Scanning: Create and scan barcodes for efficient stock tracking and order processing.
- ✓Product Costing: Track costs using FIFO, LIFO, or Average Costing methods.
- ✓BOM & Assemblies: Manage components and assemble finished goods from raw materials.
- ✓Purchase Order Management: Create and track purchase orders, manage supplier information.
Scorecard (Overall: 78.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Entrepreneur (Cloud)
$89.00 / monthly
- Core Inventory
- Order Management
- Limited Users/Orders
Limitations: Order limits, basic features
Small Business (Cloud)
$219.00 / monthly
- More Users/Orders
- BOM
- Serial Numbers
Limitations: Some advanced features missing
Mid-Size (Cloud)
$439.00 / monthly
- Higher Limits
- User Roles
- API Access
Pros
- + Flexible deployment (cloud/on-premise)
- + Good balance of features and usability
- + Strong barcoding capabilities
- + Mobile apps available
Cons
- - Integrations list is less extensive than some competitors
- - Reporting is adequate but not deeply customizable
- - On-premise version has separate pricing
Verdict
"A solid, versatile choice for SMBs needing reliable inventory tracking with options for deployment."
#5
Katana MRP
By Katana
Cloud-based manufacturing ERP focused on providing inventory control and production scheduling for small manufacturers.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Small Scale Manufacturing, Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Brands, Workshop Management
Key Features
- ✓Visual Production Planning: Drag-and-drop interface for scheduling manufacturing orders and tracking progress.
- ✓Real-time Inventory Control: Automatic inventory adjustments based on production and sales orders.
- ✓Shop Floor Control App: Allows operators to track time and material consumption for tasks.
- ✓Make-to-Order & Make-to-Stock: Supports both production workflows based on demand or stock levels.
Scorecard (Overall: 82.1 / 10.0)
Pricing
Essential
$99.00 / monthly
- Core Inventory
- Sales Order Management
- Basic Manufacturing
Limitations: Limited features and users
Advanced
$299.00 / monthly
- Shop Floor Control
- Batch Tracking
- Multi-currency
Limitations: User/feature limits
Professional
$799.00 / monthly
- API Access
- Multiple Locations
- Advanced Integrations
Pros
- + Intuitive interface, easy to learn
- + Strong focus on small manufacturing needs
- + Good integration with e-commerce platforms
- + Real-time data visibility
Cons
- - Reporting could be more customizable
- - Lacks advanced features of larger ERPs
- - Can get expensive as needs grow
Verdict
"An excellent, user-friendly option for small manufacturers and DTC brands needing visual production control."
#4
Fishbowl Inventory
By Fishbowl
Hybrid desktop/cloud inventory solution primarily focused on QuickBooks integration for manufacturing and wholesale.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Desktop (Windows), Web (Limited), iOS, Android
Best For: Manufacturing (MRP), Wholesale Distribution, Warehouse Management, QuickBooks Users
Key Features
- ✓Manufacturing Orders (MO): Manage bills of materials (BOMs), production stages, and work orders.
- ✓Advanced Warehouse Management: Supports barcode scanning, picking, packing, shipping, and location tracking.
- ✓QuickBooks Integration: Deep, seamless integration with QuickBooks Desktop and Online.
- ✓Part Tracking: Track inventory by various criteria like serial numbers, lot numbers, revision levels, or expiration dates.
Scorecard (Overall: 77.1 / 10.0)
Pricing
Per User License
$4395.00 / one-time
- Core Manufacturing/Warehouse modules
- QuickBooks Integration
- Implementation Support
Limitations: Annual support/maintenance fees apply, Primarily desktop-based
Pros
- + Powerful manufacturing and warehousing features
- + Excellent QuickBooks integration
- + Strong part tracking capabilities
- + One-time purchase option
Cons
- - Primarily desktop-based limiting accessibility
- - Outdated user interface
- - High upfront cost
- - Limited non-QuickBooks integrations
Verdict
"Best suited for manufacturers and wholesalers heavily reliant on QuickBooks needing robust inventory and production control."
#3
Cin7 Omni
By Cin7
Connected inventory management designed for multi-channel brands selling B2C and B2B.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Omnichannel Retail, Wholesale, E-commerce, Light Manufacturing
Key Features
- ✓B2B Portal: Allows wholesale customers to view stock and place orders directly.
- ✓Built-in POS: Point-of-Sale functionality for managing in-person sales and inventory.
- ✓EDI Integration: Connect with major retailers and trading partners via Electronic Data Interchange.
- ✓Workflow Automation: Automate tasks related to order routing, fulfillment, and purchasing.
Scorecard (Overall: 81.4 / 10.0)
Pricing
Standard
$349.00 / monthly
- Core Inventory
- Order Management
- POS Lite
- B2B Portal
Limitations: Based on order volume and users
Pro
$599.00 / monthly
- Higher Limits
- Advanced Reporting
- Dedicated Support
Limitations: Custom pricing for enterprise needs
Pros
- + Strong multi-channel capabilities
- + Good automation features
- + Wide range of integrations (incl. EDI)
- + Combines B2B and B2C workflows
Cons
- - Can be complex to set up
- - Pricing is higher than some competitors
- - User interface feels dated to some
Verdict
"Excellent for businesses managing complex omnichannel sales and needing robust integrations like EDI."
#2
Zoho Inventory
By Zoho Corporation
Cloud-based inventory and order management ideal for small to medium-sized e-commerce businesses.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: E-commerce, Retail, Wholesale, Small Business
Key Features
- ✓Multi-channel Selling: Integrates with major online marketplaces (Amazon, eBay, Etsy) and shopping carts (Shopify, WooCommerce).
- ✓Order Fulfillment: Manage sales orders, create shipments, and integrate with shipping carriers.
- ✓Serial & Batch Tracking: Track individual items or groups for expiry dates or recalls.
- ✓Warehouse Management: Basic features for managing stock within specific warehouse locations.
Scorecard (Overall: 84.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free
Contact Vendor
- Limited Orders/Shipments
- Basic Inventory
- 1 Warehouse
Limitations: Limited users and transactions
Standard
$59.00 / monthly
- More Orders
- Composite Items
- Serial Number Tracking
Limitations: Transaction limits
Professional
$239.00 / monthly
- Higher Limits
- Batch Tracking
- More Users/Warehouses
Pros
- + Excellent value for money
- + User-friendly interface
- + Strong integration with Zoho ecosystem
- + Good multi-channel support
Cons
- - Limited features in lower tiers
- - Reporting could be more robust
- - May not scale for very large enterprises
Verdict
"A top choice for SMBs, especially those already using Zoho products or focused on e-commerce."
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#1
NetSuite ERP
By Oracle
Comprehensive cloud ERP solution with robust inventory management capabilities for medium to large businesses.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Wholesale Distribution, Manufacturing, Retail (Omnichannel), Supply Chain Management
Key Features
- ✓Multi-location Inventory: Track stock across multiple warehouses, stores, and distribution centers in real-time.
- ✓Demand Planning: Forecast inventory needs based on historical data, seasonality, and sales trends.
- ✓Landed Cost Tracking: Calculate the true cost of goods, including shipping, duties, and fees.
- ✓Bin Management & Cycle Counting: Optimize warehouse layout and ensure inventory accuracy with systematic counting.
Scorecard (Overall: 82.9 / 10.0)
Pricing
Subscription
$1000.00 / annually
- Full ERP Suite Access
- Advanced Inventory Modules
- Customization Options
Limitations: Requires annual contract, Implementation costs can be high
Pros
- + Highly scalable platform
- + Extensive feature set beyond inventory
- + Strong reporting and analytics
- + Supports complex workflows
Cons
- - Expensive initial and ongoing costs
- - Steeper learning curve
- - Implementation can be lengthy
Verdict
"Best for established businesses needing a powerful, integrated ERP system with advanced inventory control."
Final Thoughts
The inventory management software landscape offers diverse solutions, from SMB-focused tools like Zoho Inventory and Katana to comprehensive ERPs like NetSuite and specialized retail platforms like Brightpearl. Key differentiators include depth of features (manufacturing, WMS), multi-channel capabilities, automation power, integration breadth, and pricing models. Choosing the right software depends heavily on business size, complexity, sales channels, and specific operational needs like manufacturing or advanced warehousing.