Quick Overview
- 1#1: Epicor Prophet 21 - Comprehensive ERP system designed for automotive aftermarket distributors with advanced inventory control, purchasing, and order management.
- 2#2: CDK Global DMS - Robust dealer management solution featuring parts inventory matrix, real-time tracking, and integrated ordering for automotive dealerships.
- 3#3: Reynolds ERA - Integrated dealership software with sophisticated parts inventory management, vendor integration, and demand forecasting.
- 4#4: AutoFluent - Specialized DMS for auto repair and collision shops offering precise parts inventory tracking, stock alerts, and purchase orders.
- 5#5: ALLDATA Manage Online - Cloud-based shop management tool with parts matrix, inventory reconciliation, and automated reordering for repair facilities.
- 6#6: Shopmonkey - Modern auto shop platform providing real-time parts inventory, multi-location support, and vendor catalog integration.
- 7#7: Tekmetric - All-in-one repair shop software with inventory management, usage analytics, and seamless purchasing workflows.
- 8#8: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory solution with barcode scanning, lot tracking, and QuickBooks integration ideal for auto parts distributors.
- 9#9: Oracle NetSuite - Scalable cloud ERP delivering multi-location inventory visibility, demand planning, and fulfillment for parts businesses.
- 10#10: Zoho Inventory - Cost-effective cloud inventory app with serial tracking, sales orders, and e-commerce sync for small auto parts operations.
We ranked these tools by evaluating key factors including inventory control features, user experience, integration capabilities, and overall value, ensuring they deliver reliable performance for varied automotive business requirements.
Comparison Table
Auto parts inventory software is vital for optimizing operations, and this comparison table explores leading tools like Epicor Prophet 21, CDK Global DMS, Reynolds ERA, AutoFluent, ALLDATA Manage Online, and more. Readers will discover key features, usability, and efficiency to identify the best fit for their business requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epicor Prophet 21 Comprehensive ERP system designed for automotive aftermarket distributors with advanced inventory control, purchasing, and order management. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | CDK Global DMS Robust dealer management solution featuring parts inventory matrix, real-time tracking, and integrated ordering for automotive dealerships. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Reynolds ERA Integrated dealership software with sophisticated parts inventory management, vendor integration, and demand forecasting. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | AutoFluent Specialized DMS for auto repair and collision shops offering precise parts inventory tracking, stock alerts, and purchase orders. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | ALLDATA Manage Online Cloud-based shop management tool with parts matrix, inventory reconciliation, and automated reordering for repair facilities. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | Shopmonkey Modern auto shop platform providing real-time parts inventory, multi-location support, and vendor catalog integration. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Tekmetric All-in-one repair shop software with inventory management, usage analytics, and seamless purchasing workflows. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory solution with barcode scanning, lot tracking, and QuickBooks integration ideal for auto parts distributors. | other | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Oracle NetSuite Scalable cloud ERP delivering multi-location inventory visibility, demand planning, and fulfillment for parts businesses. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | Zoho Inventory Cost-effective cloud inventory app with serial tracking, sales orders, and e-commerce sync for small auto parts operations. | other | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.9/10 |
Comprehensive ERP system designed for automotive aftermarket distributors with advanced inventory control, purchasing, and order management.
Robust dealer management solution featuring parts inventory matrix, real-time tracking, and integrated ordering for automotive dealerships.
Integrated dealership software with sophisticated parts inventory management, vendor integration, and demand forecasting.
Specialized DMS for auto repair and collision shops offering precise parts inventory tracking, stock alerts, and purchase orders.
Cloud-based shop management tool with parts matrix, inventory reconciliation, and automated reordering for repair facilities.
Modern auto shop platform providing real-time parts inventory, multi-location support, and vendor catalog integration.
All-in-one repair shop software with inventory management, usage analytics, and seamless purchasing workflows.
Advanced inventory solution with barcode scanning, lot tracking, and QuickBooks integration ideal for auto parts distributors.
Scalable cloud ERP delivering multi-location inventory visibility, demand planning, and fulfillment for parts businesses.
Cost-effective cloud inventory app with serial tracking, sales orders, and e-commerce sync for small auto parts operations.
Epicor Prophet 21
enterpriseComprehensive ERP system designed for automotive aftermarket distributors with advanced inventory control, purchasing, and order management.
Core inventory management for buy-sell programs, tracking deposits, returns, and reconciliations unique to auto parts
Epicor Prophet 21 is a robust ERP platform tailored for wholesale distributors, with deep capabilities in inventory management ideal for auto parts businesses. It provides real-time stock visibility, advanced demand forecasting via Spectrum tools, lot/serial tracking, and specialized handling for cores, returns, and warranties. The system integrates procurement, order processing, warehouse management, and e-commerce to optimize supply chain efficiency for complex distribution operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive inventory control with multi-location support and real-time analytics
- Advanced forecasting and automated replenishment tailored for auto parts variability
- Seamless integration with e-commerce, EDI, and third-party logistics
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- High implementation and customization costs
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large auto parts distributors requiring enterprise-grade ERP for complex inventory like cores and high-volume distribution.
Pricing
Quote-based; upfront licensing and implementation often $100K+, with per-user fees around $200-400/month plus annual maintenance.
CDK Global DMS
enterpriseRobust dealer management solution featuring parts inventory matrix, real-time tracking, and integrated ordering for automotive dealerships.
Seamless Parts Matrix integration providing one-click access to millions of parts from 100+ suppliers with real-time pricing and ETA
CDK Global DMS is a comprehensive dealer management system tailored for automotive dealerships, with robust auto parts inventory management at its core. It enables real-time tracking of parts stock, automated reordering from OEM and aftermarket suppliers, and seamless integration with service bays for just-in-time inventory. The platform offers advanced analytics for demand forecasting, stock optimization, and cost control, making it a powerhouse for high-volume parts operations.
Pros
- Deep integration with OEM parts catalogs and supplier networks for instant pricing and availability
- Real-time inventory visibility across multiple locations with automated replenishment
- Powerful analytics and reporting for demand forecasting and turnover optimization
Cons
- High enterprise-level pricing that may overwhelm smaller operations
- Steep learning curve due to its comprehensive DMS interface requiring extensive training
- Overkill for businesses focused solely on parts inventory without full dealership needs
Best For
Large automotive dealerships and service centers requiring integrated parts inventory management within a full dealer operations suite.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $5,000+ per month per dealership location, with per-user add-ons and implementation fees.
Reynolds ERA
enterpriseIntegrated dealership software with sophisticated parts inventory management, vendor integration, and demand forecasting.
OEM PartsMatrix integration for real-time pricing, availability, and ordering from multiple manufacturers
Reynolds ERA (ERA-IMS) is a comprehensive dealership management system (DMS) from Reynolds and Reynolds, with robust auto parts inventory management tailored for automotive dealerships. It handles inventory tracking, automated reordering, OEM parts lookups, purchasing, and sales integration to streamline parts department operations. The system provides real-time visibility into stock levels, vendor management, and performance analytics, making it suitable for high-volume parts environments.
Pros
- Deep integration with OEM catalogs and suppliers for accurate parts sourcing and pricing
- Advanced inventory forecasting, reorder automation, and detailed reporting tools
- Seamless connectivity with full dealership operations including service and sales
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex, legacy interface requiring extensive training
- High upfront implementation costs and ongoing subscription fees
- Limited flexibility for customization compared to modern cloud-based alternatives
Best For
Large automotive dealerships with high-volume parts departments needing an integrated DMS solution.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $5,000–$20,000+ per month based on dealership size, plus implementation fees.
AutoFluent
specializedSpecialized DMS for auto repair and collision shops offering precise parts inventory tracking, stock alerts, and purchase orders.
QuickFill technology for instant parts lookup and ordering from multiple OEM sources
AutoFluent is a comprehensive dealership management system (DMS) with robust auto parts inventory management capabilities, enabling real-time tracking, OEM integrations, and automated purchasing for automotive dealerships. It streamlines parts ordering, stocking, and sales through features like QuickFill for rapid lookups and vendor EDI connectivity. The software also integrates inventory data with service, sales, and accounting modules for end-to-end dealership operations.
Pros
- Deep OEM and vendor integrations for accurate pricing and availability
- Advanced inventory tools like reorder alerts and lot tracking
- Scalable for multi-location dealerships with strong reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing can be high for smaller shops
- Mobile access is functional but not fully optimized
Best For
Mid-sized auto dealerships seeking an all-in-one DMS with powerful parts inventory management.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on dealership size; typically $125-$250 per user/month with implementation fees.
ALLDATA Manage Online
specializedCloud-based shop management tool with parts matrix, inventory reconciliation, and automated reordering for repair facilities.
VIN/DTC-driven parts lookup and instant ordering directly from ALLDATA's OEM database
ALLDATA Manage Online is a cloud-based shop management system from ALLDATA that includes specialized auto parts inventory tools designed for automotive repair shops. It offers real-time inventory tracking, automated reordering from major suppliers, matrix pricing for multi-location operations, and seamless integration with ALLDATA's OEM repair database for VIN- and DTC-based parts lookup. While not a standalone inventory solution, it excels in embedding parts management within end-to-end shop workflows, reducing errors in ordering and stocking.
Pros
- Deep integration with OEM data for accurate, VIN-specific parts identification and ordering
- Real-time inventory tracking with automated alerts and supplier matrix ordering
- Scalable for multi-store operations with centralized control
Cons
- Higher pricing suited more for full shop management than pure inventory use
- Learning curve due to extensive features beyond inventory
- Limited standalone flexibility for parts distributors without repair shop needs
Best For
Automotive repair shops needing integrated inventory management tied to diagnostic and repair workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $250-$450/month per location, scaled by users, bays, and features (custom quotes required).
Shopmonkey
specializedModern auto shop platform providing real-time parts inventory, multi-location support, and vendor catalog integration.
Parts Matrix for dynamic, size-based pricing on bulk items like tires, batteries, and filters
Shopmonkey is a cloud-based auto shop management platform with integrated inventory tools designed for auto repair businesses to track parts stock, manage purchases, and link inventory directly to repair orders. It offers features like real-time stock levels, low-stock alerts, matrix pricing for items like tires and filters, and vendor integrations for streamlined ordering. While not a standalone inventory solution, it excels in embedding parts management within daily shop workflows to reduce errors and improve efficiency.
Pros
- Seamless integration of inventory with repair orders and invoicing
- Real-time tracking and automated low-stock notifications
- Mobile-friendly interface for on-the-go inventory management
Cons
- Higher pricing for full inventory features may not suit very small shops
- Less depth in advanced analytics compared to dedicated inventory systems
- Limited support for multi-location inventory without higher tiers
Best For
Small to mid-sized auto repair shops needing integrated inventory management within a full shop operations platform.
Pricing
Starts at $199/month for basic plan; Pro and Enterprise tiers ($299-$499+/month) unlock advanced inventory tools like matrix pricing and purchasing automation.
Tekmetric
specializedAll-in-one repair shop software with inventory management, usage analytics, and seamless purchasing workflows.
Direct parts ordering from integrated vendor catalogs with real-time pricing and availability checks
Tekmetric is an all-in-one auto repair shop management platform with robust inventory management features designed for automotive businesses. It enables real-time tracking of parts stock, matrix pricing for profitability, automated purchase orders, and direct integrations with major parts vendors like Nexpart and WorldPac. The system helps shops maintain optimal inventory levels, reduce stockouts, and streamline ordering to support efficient repair workflows.
Pros
- Seamless vendor integrations for real-time pricing and availability
- Automated low-stock alerts and purchase order generation
- Detailed inventory reporting and matrix costing for profitability
Cons
- Full platform focus may overwhelm users needing only inventory tools
- Pricing scales quickly for multi-bay shops
- Limited standalone inventory customization without shop management modules
Best For
Mid-sized auto repair shops seeking integrated inventory management within a complete shop operations suite.
Pricing
Custom subscription starting at ~$199/month per bay, with tiers based on shop size and features.
Fishbowl Inventory
otherAdvanced inventory solution with barcode scanning, lot tracking, and QuickBooks integration ideal for auto parts distributors.
Matrix inventory for managing product variations like part sizes, colors, and specifications without endless SKUs
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust, on-premise inventory management software tailored for small to midsize businesses, providing advanced tracking for stock levels, serial/lot numbers, and multi-location warehouses. It supports barcode scanning, order fulfillment, and manufacturing with bills of materials, making it suitable for auto parts distributors handling complex inventories. Seamless integration with QuickBooks automates accounting, while features like cycle counting and pick/pack processes ensure accuracy in fast-paced auto parts environments.
Pros
- Powerful serial, lot, and matrix tracking ideal for varied auto parts
- Deep QuickBooks integration for streamlined accounting
- Multi-warehouse support with barcode and RFID capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Primarily on-premise with optional hosting adding costs
- Limited out-of-box e-commerce integrations
Best For
Auto parts distributors and warehouses needing precise inventory control, manufacturing support, and QuickBooks syncing.
Pricing
One-time license starts at $4,395 for Standard edition (up to 10 users), plus ~20% annual maintenance; higher tiers for more users/locations.
Oracle NetSuite
enterpriseScalable cloud ERP delivering multi-location inventory visibility, demand planning, and fulfillment for parts businesses.
Real-time, global multi-location inventory visibility with AI-driven demand planning
Oracle NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform with robust inventory management features tailored for complex operations like auto parts distribution. It provides real-time multi-location tracking, serial/lot number management, demand planning, and automated replenishment to handle high-SKU volumes typical in auto parts inventories. Integrated with financials, procurement, and order fulfillment, it supports end-to-end supply chain efficiency for automotive wholesalers.
Pros
- Scalable multi-warehouse and bin-level inventory tracking ideal for large auto parts catalogs
- Advanced demand forecasting and automated reorder points to minimize stockouts
- Seamless integration with ERP modules for unified financial and sales visibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation for non-enterprise users
- High cost prohibitive for small auto shops
- Lacks niche auto parts features like OEM catalog integration or VIN-specific tracking out-of-the-box
Best For
Mid-to-large auto parts distributors requiring enterprise-grade ERP with comprehensive inventory controls.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically starts at $999/user/month plus $10K+ implementation fees, scaling with modules and users.
Zoho Inventory
otherCost-effective cloud inventory app with serial tracking, sales orders, and e-commerce sync for small auto parts operations.
Intelligent automation rules for automatic purchase orders and stock transfers across multiple warehouses
Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management platform that excels in tracking stock levels, serial/batch numbers, multi-warehouse operations, and order fulfillment, making it suitable for general inventory needs in auto parts businesses. It supports purchase orders, sales orders, barcode scanning via mobile app, and automation rules for reordering low-stock items. While versatile and integrable with e-commerce and Zoho's ecosystem, it lacks specialized auto parts features like VIN tracking or OEM catalog integration. Overall, it's a solid generalist tool for SMBs managing parts inventory.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with a free tier for small operations
- Intuitive interface and mobile app for easy barcode scanning
- Robust integrations with Zoho Books, CRM, and e-commerce platforms
Cons
- Lacks auto parts-specific tools like VIN decoding or parts interchange matrices
- Limited advanced analytics tailored to automotive inventory trends
- Customization options are basic for complex supply chain needs
Best For
Small to medium auto parts retailers or distributors seeking a cost-effective, user-friendly inventory solution without needing deep industry-specific automotive features.
Pricing
Free for up to 20 online orders/month; paid plans: Standard ($29/mo), Professional ($79/mo), Elite ($199/mo) billed annually per organization.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools range from specialized DMS platforms to scalable ERP solutions, with Epicor Prophet 21 leading as the most comprehensive choice for automotive aftermarket distributors, offering advanced inventory control, purchasing, and order management. CDK Global DMS stands out for dealerships with real-time tracking and integrated ordering, while Reynolds ERA excels with integrated workflows, vendor integration, and demand forecasting. Each tool caters to distinct needs, but Epicor Prophet 21 emerges as the top pick, balancing power and versatility for operational efficiency.
Explore Epicor Prophet 21 to elevate your auto parts inventory management—its advanced features can streamline processes and drive growth for your business
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
