Managing inventory can be a big task for any business. Good inventory software helps track products, orders, and shipping all in one place. The right inventory management software can save time, reduce errors, and help businesses make better decisions about stock levels.
Many companies now offer inventory solutions that work for both small and large businesses. These tools range from basic stock tracking to complex systems that handle everything from orders to warehouse management. Some popular options include Zoho Inventory, Fishbowl, and Oracle NetSuite.
Best Inventory Management Software
Managing inventory well is critical for retailers, wholesalers, e‑commerce businesses, and manufacturers. The right software helps you:
- Track stock in real time
- Automate reordering
- Sync across sales channels
- Reduce waste and stockouts
Below are some of the top inventory management tools for 2025 (based on expert reviews and current rankings from NerdWallet, Software Advice, and SoftwareConnect).
🏆 1. Cin7 Core (formerly DEAR Systems)
- Best for: Small to mid‑sized businesses needing advanced automation.
- Key Features:
- Multi‑channel inventory syncing (online + retail)
- Purchase order automation
- Accounting integrations (Xero, QuickBooks)
- Pros:Â Scales easily, strong reporting.
- Cons:Â Steeper learning curve.
- Pricing:Â From ~$325/month.
🏆 2. Zoho Inventory
- Best for:Â Small businesses and startups.
- Key Features:
- Order and shipment tracking
- Warehouse management
- Integrates with Shopify, Amazon, eBay
- Pros:Â Affordable, easy to use.
- Cons:Â Limited advanced features for large enterprises.
- Pricing:Â Free plan (limited), paid from ~$59/month.
🏆 3. Fishbowl Inventory
- Best for:Â Manufacturers and warehouses.
- Key Features:
- Robust manufacturing tools (work orders, BOMs)
- Barcode scanning
- QuickBooks integration
- Pros:Â Strong for production workflows.
- Cons: Dated interface, add‑ons can be pricey.
- Pricing: License + subscription (~$4,395 one‑time + support fees).
🏆 4. NetSuite (Oracle)
- Best for:Â Large enterprises.
- Key Features:
- Cloud ERP with full financial + inventory management
- Demand forecasting
- Multi‑location support
- Pros: Enterprise‑grade, scalable globally.
- Cons:Â Expensive, complex setup.
- Pricing:Â Custom quotes (often $10,000+/year).
🏆 5. inFlow Inventory
- Best for:Â Small to medium businesses with growing needs.
- Key Features:
- Barcode generation and scanning
- B2B portal for wholesale orders
- Cloud + on‑premise options
- Pros: User‑friendly, affordable.
- Cons:Â Limited integrations vs. larger competitors.
- Pricing:Â From ~$110/month.
🏆 6. Extensiv (formerly Skubana)
- Best for: E‑commerce and 3PLs.
- Key Features:
- Multi‑channel fulfillment
- Advanced analytics
- Warehouse management
- Pros:Â Strong for online sellers.
- Cons:Â Higher cost, complex setup.
- Pricing:Â Custom quotes.
🏆 7. Odoo Inventory
- Best for: Businesses wanting open‑source flexibility.
- Key Features:
- Modular ERP with inventory, CRM, sales, and accounting
- Barcode scanning
- Customizable workflows
- Pros:Â Highly customizable, affordable.
- Cons:Â May require developer support.
- Pricing:Â Starts ~$25/user/month (plus hosting).
🌟 Quick Comparison Table
| Software | Best For | Pricing (2025) | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cin7 Core | SMBs needing automation | $325+/mo | Multi‑channel + automation |
| Zoho Inventory | Startups & small biz | Free – $59+/mo | Affordable + easy |
| Fishbowl | Manufacturers | $4,395+ license | Manufacturing tools |
| NetSuite | Enterprises | $10k+/yr | Enterprise ERP |
| inFlow | SMBs | $110+/mo | User‑friendly |
| Extensiv | E‑commerce & 3PLs | Custom | Multi‑channel fulfillment |
| Odoo Inventory | Custom workflows | $25+/user/mo | Open‑source flexibility |
⚡ Key Takeaways
- Startups & small businesses:Â Zoho Inventory or inFlow.
- Manufacturers:Â Fishbowl or Cin7 Core.
- E‑commerce sellers: Extensiv or Cin7 Core.
- Enterprises:Â NetSuite or Odoo (if you want flexibility).
👉 The best inventory software depends on your business size, sales channels, and budget.
1) Zoho Inventory
Zoho Inventory is one of the top choices for businesses looking to manage their stock effectively. This online inventory management software helps companies handle inventory, orders, shipping, and warehouses all in one place.
Small businesses find Zoho particularly helpful because it’s designed to be user-friendly. The system allows for easy tracking of sales and gives users a central view of all inventory operations.
For growing businesses, Zoho offers tools to expand across multiple sales channels. Companies can sell on different platforms while keeping their inventory synchronized.
The software includes features to monitor purchases and control warehouse operations. This makes it easier to know what’s in stock and what needs to be ordered.
Zoho Inventory also offers a free version for businesses just starting out. This option includes basic features like sales tracking and item monitoring without any cost.
E-commerce businesses benefit from Zoho’s special features. The system connects with many online stores and marketplaces, making it simple to manage products across different platforms.
The cloud-based system means users can check their inventory from anywhere. This helps business owners stay on top of their stock levels even when they’re away from the office.
Order fulfillment becomes more efficient with Zoho’s tools. The software helps track orders from placement to delivery, keeping customers happy with timely shipments.
2) NetSuite
NetSuite is a powerful inventory management system that helps businesses track and manage their stock. It gives companies a single view of inventory across all locations and sales channels.
Companies use NetSuite to automate many inventory tasks. This automation helps reduce errors and saves time for workers. The system updates in real-time, so staff always know exactly what’s in stock.
NetSuite offers unified visibility across multiple business locations. This feature is especially helpful for companies with several warehouses or stores. Managers can see inventory levels at any location without making phone calls or sending emails.
The software helps businesses find the right balance of inventory. With NetSuite, companies can avoid having too much stock that ties up money or too little that causes missed sales. This balance improves cash flow and customer satisfaction.
NetSuite connects with many other business tools. It integrates with platforms like Adobe Commerce, SkuVault Core, and Netstock. These connections help create a smooth workflow across different business systems.
The cloud-based system means users can check inventory from anywhere with internet access. This flexibility helps managers make quick decisions even when they’re away from the office.
NetSuite works well for both small companies and large enterprises. It can grow with a business, adding features as needs change over time.
3) QuickBooks Commerce
QuickBooks Commerce offers a complete solution for businesses that need to manage their inventory across multiple sales channels. This tool works as part of the QuickBooks ecosystem to help you track products, orders, and sales in one place.
The software syncs and tracks inventory automatically. When a customer buys a product from any of your sales channels, QuickBooks Commerce updates your stock levels right away. This helps prevent overselling and keeps your inventory counts accurate.
With QuickBooks Commerce, you can easily check what items are in stock. The platform provides real-time updates so you always know exactly what products you have available to sell.
Order management is another strong point of this tool. It lets you process orders faster and make sure customers get their products on time. You can track orders from the moment they come in until they reach the customer’s door.
The system integrates seamlessly with your accounting in QuickBooks. This means less manual data entry and fewer errors in your financial records.
For online sellers, QuickBooks Commerce offers special features for e-commerce inventory management. It helps connect your online stores with your inventory system so everything stays in sync.
The platform also includes tools for purchase orders. You can create and track POs easily, which helps you maintain the right stock levels and avoid running out of popular items.
QuickBooks Commerce works well for both small and growing businesses. As your company expands to more sales channels, this tool scales with you to keep your inventory organized.
4) Fishbowl Inventory
Fishbowl Inventory stands out as a strong option for businesses using QuickBooks or Xero. It has earned its reputation as the #1 inventory management software for QuickBooks and Xero users.
Many companies choose Fishbowl to track their inventory needs. The software offers a complete solution that helps businesses monitor stock levels and manage orders efficiently.
Fishbowl works best for mid-sized companies. It’s particularly well-suited for businesses with around 30 employees who already use QuickBooks for their accounting needs.
The system offers two main products. Fishbowl Advanced provides manufacturing, warehouse and order management solutions that integrate seamlessly with popular accounting software.
Users appreciate Fishbowl’s tracking capabilities. The platform gives businesses the tools to watch inventory movement across locations and maintain accurate counts.
Procurement management is another key feature. Companies can streamline their purchasing process and keep better tabs on vendor relationships.
Fishbowl also handles order management. This helps businesses process customer orders more quickly and with fewer errors.
For those wanting to see how it works, demo videos are available showing the software’s features in action. These demonstrations help potential users understand if Fishbowl fits their needs.
Thousands of businesses trust Fishbowl’s solutions. Its focused approach to inventory management makes it worth considering for growing companies that need better stock control.
5) Sortly
Sortly is an all-in-one inventory software designed to help businesses save time and money. It offers a user-friendly platform that simplifies inventory management tasks for companies of all sizes.
The software allows users to track, organize, and manage inventory from both desktop and mobile devices. This flexibility makes it easy for teams to update inventory information from anywhere.
Sortly stands out for its mobile capabilities, with a highly-rated app available on the App Store. Over 20,000 businesses trust this solution for their inventory needs.
For businesses that manage inventory across multiple locations, Sortly offers powerful features. Construction companies can use it to track items across job sites, locations, and vehicles.
Event management companies also benefit from Sortly’s features. The platform provides specialized tools for event inventory tracking that streamline operations before, during, and after events.
New users can test Sortly with a 14-day free trial. This gives businesses a chance to see how the software fits their needs without making an immediate commitment.
The system aims to streamline daily inventory operations. Its interface is built to be simple enough for anyone to use while still offering robust features for complex inventory tasks.
6) Katana
Katana is a cloud-based inventory software designed to give businesses total visibility over their stock and production processes. The platform helps companies manage their inventory in real time, which can prevent costly stockouts and overstock situations.
Small to medium-sized manufacturers find Katana particularly useful because it connects sales, purchasing, and production in one system. Users can track materials and finished goods easily through the intuitive dashboard.
Katana works well with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting software such as QuickBooks. These integrations make it simpler to sync data across different business tools.
The software includes features for purchase order management with reorder points. This helps businesses know exactly when to order more materials to maintain optimal inventory levels.
Users on Reddit have shared positive experiences with Katana, noting it functions well as a Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) system with strong inventory management capabilities. Many prefer it over alternatives like Odoo.
For businesses handling multiple sales channels, Katana offers omnichannel sales management. This feature lets companies track inventory across various platforms from one central location.
The platform’s real-time updating means inventory numbers adjust automatically when orders come in or products are manufactured. This accuracy helps businesses make better decisions about stock levels and production timing.
7) DelmiaWorks
DelmiaWorks offers specialized manufacturing inventory management software designed for production-focused businesses. The system helps companies track materials and finished goods while maintaining optimal stock levels.
This software stands out for its manufacturing-centric approach. It facilitates lean principles and provides tools for lot tracking and traceability, which are essential for quality control in production environments.
The warehouse management system component ranges from basic product picking to advanced inventory movement tracking. This flexibility makes it suitable for both small manufacturers and larger operations with complex needs.
DelmiaWorks was formerly known as IQMS, a name some industry veterans might still recognize. The system functions as part of a complete manufacturing ERP solution from Dassault Systèmes.
Companies can use DelmiaWorks to manage costs tied to inventory. The inventory control module helps businesses reduce waste and improve cash flow by preventing overstocking and stockouts.
For manufacturers dealing with complex supply chains, DelmiaWorks offers tools to coordinate inventory across multiple locations. This feature helps maintain production schedules even when facing supply disruptions.
The software also includes Kanban functionality, supporting just-in-time manufacturing practices. This helps companies reduce warehouse space needs and cut carrying costs while maintaining production efficiency.
Real-time data access gives managers instant visibility into inventory status. This immediacy helps teams make quick decisions when production demands change or supply issues arise.
8) Microsoft Dynamics 365
Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers powerful inventory management solutions that help businesses track their stock in real time. This system works through the cloud, letting teams update and check inventory from anywhere.
The platform gives users clear views of all their products and parts. Teams can quickly see what’s in stock, what’s running low, and what needs to be ordered soon.
One big advantage is how it connects with other Microsoft tools that companies might already use. This makes the switch to a new system much easier for many businesses.
Dynamics 365 comes in different versions to fit various company sizes. Small businesses often choose Business Central, while larger companies may pick the Finance and Supply Chain Management option.
The system helps cut costs by showing exactly where money goes in the supply chain. It points out waste and spots where companies can save on storage and shipping.
Users can make custom reports to track the data that matters most to them. These reports help teams make smart choices about what to buy and when.
The software also helps predict future needs based on past sales patterns. This lets companies order just enough stock without tying up extra money in items that might not sell quickly.
For businesses that need more specific features, there are add-on tools that work with Dynamics 365. These extras can handle special needs that the main program might not cover.
9) Unleashed
Unleashed is highly rated inventory management software with an impressive 4.9/5 rating from over 800 users on Trustpilot. This makes it one of the most recommended options in the market today.
The software offers a perpetual inventory management system that updates your stock position in real time. Every stock movement gets recorded as it happens, giving you an accurate picture of your inventory.
Businesses use Unleashed to track stock across different locations with ease and accuracy. The system helps users see what’s happening throughout their entire supply chain.
Many companies in over 80 countries trust this platform for their inventory needs. It gives them control of everything they buy, sell, make, and store in their warehouses.
Unleashed works well as an all-round inventory system that supports many aspects of supply chain management. It streamlines processes that might otherwise take much more time and effort.
For online sellers, Unleashed connects with popular platforms like Shopify. This integration helps e-commerce businesses manage their inventory alongside their online stores.
The software provides good visibility into all inventory operations. This transparency helps businesses make better decisions about stock levels and purchasing.
10) Cin7
Cin7 ranks as a top choice for inventory management in 2024. It offers a complete cloud-based platform that connects all parts of your product lifecycle.
The software brings together purchasing, production, storage, sales, and fulfillment in one place. This makes it easier to track inventory across multiple sales channels.
Many business owners find Cin7 robust and flexible. The system helps streamline operations for companies that sell products through different channels.
Cin7 stands out by offering what they call “Connected Inventory Performance.” This feature helps businesses manage their entire product journey from start to finish.
The platform has earned high marks from users. It’s been voted #1 in over 300 reports and is trusted by thousands of businesses looking to grow.
For wholesale businesses specifically, Cin7 provides a unified platform that combines the strengths of standalone inventory tools and ERP systems.
Cin7 integrates with many other business tools. This helps companies create a smooth workflow without jumping between different programs.
The software works well for businesses of various sizes. Its cloud-based nature means teams can access inventory data from anywhere with internet access.
Users praise Cin7 for its ability to handle complex inventory needs. The system can track items across warehouses, stores, and online marketplaces at the same time.
Key Features of Inventory Management Software
Modern inventory management software comes with several essential features that help businesses track products, automate processes, and connect with other business systems. These tools save time, reduce errors, and cut costs.
Real-Time Inventory Tracking
Real-time inventory tracking gives businesses up-to-the-minute information about their stock levels. This feature shows exactly what products are available, where they’re located, and when stock is running low.
Good tracking systems use barcodes or RFID tags to update inventory counts instantly when items move in or out. This cuts down on manual counting errors.
Most systems can:
- Track items by SKU, serial number, or lot number
- Show stock levels across multiple locations
- Alert staff when inventory reaches preset minimums
- Generate reports on inventory movement and status
These tools help businesses avoid stockouts that disappoint customers. They also prevent overstocking that ties up money in extra inventory.
Error reduction is a key benefit of good tracking systems. When staff don’t have to count items by hand, fewer mistakes happen.
Automated Reordering
When stock runs low, automated reordering kicks in to place new orders without human help. This feature saves time and makes sure popular products stay in stock.
The system works by setting reorder points for each item. When inventory drops to that level, the software creates purchase orders automatically.
Key benefits include:
- No more emergency orders or rush shipping fees
- Less staff time spent on routine ordering tasks
- Better relationships with suppliers through consistent ordering
- Lower inventory costs through optimized order quantities
Smart reordering tools can also look at sales trends to adjust order sizes. They might suggest larger orders during busy seasons or smaller ones when demand drops.
Many systems can even rank suppliers by price, quality, and delivery speed to help businesses choose the best source for each order.
Integration with Other Systems
Modern inventory software doesn’t work alone. It connects with other business tools to share data and streamline workflows.
Inventory management systems typically integrate with:
- Point-of-sale (POS) systems to update stock when sales happen
- E-commerce platforms to sync online and in-store inventory
- Accounting software to track inventory value and costs
- Shipping tools to create labels and track deliveries
- Supplier portals to place and track orders
These connections eliminate the need to enter the same information in multiple places. When a sale happens in the store, the inventory count updates right away.
Good integration also helps with reporting. Managers can see how inventory connects to sales, profits, and cash flow without jumping between different programs.
For businesses that sell through many channels, integration helps prevent selling the same item twice. When someone buys a product online, store staff can see it’s no longer available.
Benefits of Using Inventory Management Software
Inventory management software offers significant advantages for businesses looking to streamline operations and increase profitability. These systems transform how companies track and control their stock, leading to better business outcomes.
Enhanced Efficiency
Inventory management software dramatically improves workplace efficiency by automating many time-consuming tasks. Automated inventory systems eliminate the need for manual stock counts, reducing human error and freeing staff to focus on more valuable activities.
With these systems, businesses can instantly locate items, track inventory movements, and monitor stock levels in real-time. This visibility helps teams make faster decisions about restocking and product allocation.
Modern inventory software also simplifies order processing. When inventory reaches preset minimum levels, the system can automatically generate purchase orders, ensuring products are reordered at the right time.
Barcode scanning and RFID technology further speed up receiving and shipping processes. Staff can quickly process incoming deliveries and outgoing orders with fewer mistakes, leading to improved accuracy and customer satisfaction.
Cost Reduction
Implementing inventory management software delivers substantial cost savings across multiple business areas. By maintaining optimal stock levels, companies avoid tying up money in excess inventory while preventing costly stockouts.
The software helps businesses:
- Reduce storage expenses by identifying slow-moving items
- Lower labor costs through automation of routine tasks
- Minimize waste from expired or obsolete products
- Prevent emergency shipping fees by planning ahead
Better inventory accuracy leads to fewer ordering mistakes and returns, which can significantly cut operational costs. Companies gain insights into seasonal trends and buying patterns, allowing them to adjust purchasing strategies accordingly.
Advanced systems can also identify opportunities for bulk purchasing discounts while ensuring businesses don’t overstock. This balanced approach maximizes buying power while keeping carrying costs in check.
Choosing the Right Inventory Management System
Selecting the best inventory management system requires understanding your business needs and matching them with software capabilities. The right system should grow with your business and be easy to use for your team.
Scalability and Flexibility
A good inventory management system should adapt to your business as it grows. Look for software that handles increasing inventory volumes without slowing down. NetSuite offers solutions that scale well for expanding businesses.
Consider these flexibility factors:
- Integration capabilities with your existing systems
- Customization options for unique business processes
- Module-based architecture that lets you add features as needed
Your industry matters too. Retail businesses need different features than manufacturers. For example, retailers might need point-of-sale integration, while manufacturers require production tracking tools.
Cloud-based systems like Zoho Inventory often provide better scalability than on-premise solutions. They update automatically and can add capacity quickly when needed.
Usability and Support
Even the most powerful system fails if your team can’t use it easily. The best inventory software has a clean, intuitive interface that requires minimal training.
Look for these user-friendly features:
- Simple navigation and dashboard design
- Mobile access for warehouse staff
- Clear, understandable reports and analytics
Support quality can make or break your experience. Check what kind of help is available:
- Training resources (videos, guides)
- Live chat or phone support
- Implementation assistance
User reviews on platforms like Reddit and Capterra can provide real-world feedback about usability and support quality. Many vendors offer free trials or demos – use these to test how the system feels before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right inventory management software requires understanding specific features and benefits for your business type. Many business owners have common questions about costs, features, and integration options.
What features should I look for when choosing inventory management software for a small business?
Small businesses should look for user-friendly interfaces and essential features at an affordable price. Automated cycle counts make inventory audits faster and more accurate.
Barcode scanning capabilities save time and reduce human error when tracking products. Many small businesses benefit from low inventory alerts to prevent stockouts.
Budget-friendly options like Zoho Inventory offer multi-channel selling without breaking the bank. Consider your growth plans when choosing software—some solutions scale better than others.
How does the integration capability of an inventory management system benefit my Shopify store?
Integration between your inventory system and Shopify creates a seamless sales process. When systems connect, inventory updates automatically across all sales channels to prevent overselling.
Order information flows directly from Shopify to your inventory software, eliminating manual data entry. This connection enables real-time sales data to inform smarter purchasing decisions.
QuickBooks Commerce offers strong Shopify integration while maintaining accounting connections. This creates a complete business management ecosystem.
Can you suggest any free inventory management software that is suitable for startups?
Several free options provide basic inventory tracking for startups with limited budgets. Sortly offers a free plan that includes up to 100 entries, photo uploads, and basic reporting tools.
Zoho Inventory provides a free tier for businesses managing up to 50 orders monthly. This includes basic inventory tracking and integration with popular e-commerce platforms.
Free versions typically limit users, products, or features. As startups grow, paid plans offer more functionality like bulk product management and advanced reporting.
What are the advantages of using an inventory management app for in-the-field management?
Mobile inventory apps allow team members to update stock levels from anywhere. Field technicians can check parts availability instantly, improving customer service.
Apps with barcode scanning turn any smartphone into a powerful inventory tool. This eliminates expensive hardware investments for small businesses.
Real-time updates across devices ensure everyone accesses current inventory data. Fishbowl Inventory offers robust mobile capabilities for teams managing inventory across multiple locations.
Which inventory management systems are preferred for restaurant businesses, and why?
Restaurant inventory management requires specialized features for perishable goods tracking. Systems with ingredient-level tracking help prevent food waste and control costs.
NetSuite offers restaurant-specific functions including recipe costing and vendor management. The ability to track expiration dates is crucial for food safety compliance.
Integration with POS systems allows automatic inventory deduction when menu items sell. This creates accurate usage reports to identify theft or waste patterns.
How do the top-rated inventory management software solutions ensure accuracy and efficiency?
Top inventory systems use barcode and RFID scanning to eliminate manual counting errors. Automated reorder points ensure businesses never run out of critical items.
Advanced analytics help identify slow-moving products and optimize stock levels. This prevents cash from being tied up in excess inventory.
Cloud-based solutions like Zoho Inventory provide real-time updates across all locations. This creates a single source of truth for inventory data across the organization.
