Quick Overview
- 1#1: ShipStation - Automates order importing from multiple e-commerce channels, label generation, and shipping fulfillment workflows.
- 2#2: Cin7 - Streamlines omnichannel order management with real-time inventory sync and automated fulfillment.
- 3#3: NetSuite - Provides end-to-end ERP automation for order capture, processing, invoicing, and revenue management.
- 4#4: Linnworks - Centralizes multi-channel orders with automation for processing, routing, and inventory updates.
- 5#5: Brightpearl - Unifies retail order processing, inventory, and finance with automated workflows across channels.
- 6#6: Orderhive - Automates multi-platform order consolidation, picking, packing, and shipping processes.
- 7#7: Sellbrite - Automates order fulfillment and inventory management across online marketplaces and stores.
- 8#8: Extensiv Order Manager - Orchestrates order processing across distributed warehouses with advanced automation rules.
- 9#9: Fishbowl - Automates order management and inventory tracking integrated with QuickBooks for SMBs.
- 10#10: Katana MRP - Automates production orders, inventory planning, and fulfillment for manufacturers.
These tools were selected based on a focus on robust functionality (e.g., multi-channel integration, real-time inventory sync), user-friendly design, scalability, and total value, ensuring a comprehensive list that meets the demands of diverse industries and business sizes.
Comparison Table
Explore key automated order processing software options, including ShipStation, Cin7, NetSuite, Linnworks, and Brightpearl, in this comparison table. Learn about features, integration capabilities, and scalability to identify the best fit for your business, whether you’re managing small or large order volumes.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ShipStation Automates order importing from multiple e-commerce channels, label generation, and shipping fulfillment workflows. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Cin7 Streamlines omnichannel order management with real-time inventory sync and automated fulfillment. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | NetSuite Provides end-to-end ERP automation for order capture, processing, invoicing, and revenue management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 4 | Linnworks Centralizes multi-channel orders with automation for processing, routing, and inventory updates. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Brightpearl Unifies retail order processing, inventory, and finance with automated workflows across channels. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Orderhive Automates multi-platform order consolidation, picking, packing, and shipping processes. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Sellbrite Automates order fulfillment and inventory management across online marketplaces and stores. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Extensiv Order Manager Orchestrates order processing across distributed warehouses with advanced automation rules. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Fishbowl Automates order management and inventory tracking integrated with QuickBooks for SMBs. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Katana MRP Automates production orders, inventory planning, and fulfillment for manufacturers. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
Automates order importing from multiple e-commerce channels, label generation, and shipping fulfillment workflows.
Streamlines omnichannel order management with real-time inventory sync and automated fulfillment.
Provides end-to-end ERP automation for order capture, processing, invoicing, and revenue management.
Centralizes multi-channel orders with automation for processing, routing, and inventory updates.
Unifies retail order processing, inventory, and finance with automated workflows across channels.
Automates multi-platform order consolidation, picking, packing, and shipping processes.
Automates order fulfillment and inventory management across online marketplaces and stores.
Orchestrates order processing across distributed warehouses with advanced automation rules.
Automates order management and inventory tracking integrated with QuickBooks for SMBs.
Automates production orders, inventory planning, and fulfillment for manufacturers.
ShipStation
specializedAutomates order importing from multiple e-commerce channels, label generation, and shipping fulfillment workflows.
Intelligent Automation Rules that dynamically process orders based on custom criteria like SKU, weight, destination, or carrier rates
ShipStation is a leading automated order processing and shipping platform that centralizes fulfillment for e-commerce businesses across multiple sales channels. It automatically imports orders from over 100 integrations including Shopify, Amazon, and WooCommerce, applies intelligent automation rules for label generation, carrier selection, and batch processing. The software also handles inventory sync, returns management, and customer communications, enabling efficient scaling without manual intervention.
Pros
- Seamless multi-channel order import and automation rules for hands-free processing
- Robust carrier integrations with real-time rate shopping and label printing
- Comprehensive tools for inventory, returns, and branded tracking pages
Cons
- Pricing scales steeply with shipment volume
- Advanced customizations may require higher-tier plans
- Initial setup can be time-intensive for complex workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large e-commerce merchants handling high-volume, multi-channel orders that need automated shipping and fulfillment.
Pricing
Starts at $9/month (Bronze, up to 50 shipments) up to $159/month (Platinum, 20k shipments); volume-based with enterprise custom pricing.
Cin7
enterpriseStreamlines omnichannel order management with real-time inventory sync and automated fulfillment.
Intelligent order splitting and dynamic routing to optimize fulfillment across multiple warehouses and 3PL partners
Cin7 is a robust cloud-based platform specializing in automated order processing, inventory management, and multichannel sales synchronization for retailers and wholesalers. It automates order capture from e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Amazon, real-time inventory updates, fulfillment workflows, and integrations with over 700 connectors including POS, ERP, and 3PL providers. This enables seamless end-to-end order processing, reducing manual errors and scaling operations efficiently.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ platforms for seamless multichannel order automation
- Real-time inventory syncing and intelligent order routing across warehouses
- Advanced automation rules for picking, packing, and B2B EDI processing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex setups and custom configurations
- Pricing can be high for small businesses with low order volumes
- Occasional reliance on support for advanced customizations
Best For
Mid-sized retailers and wholesalers handling high-volume, multichannel orders with complex fulfillment needs.
Pricing
Starts at $325/month for Cin7 Core (up to 500 orders/month), scales to $599+/month for higher volumes; Cin7 Omni offers custom enterprise pricing.
NetSuite
enterpriseProvides end-to-end ERP automation for order capture, processing, invoicing, and revenue management.
Real-time order orchestration engine that unifies multi-subsidiary processing and AI-driven fulfillment optimization
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform that excels in automated order processing by integrating sales order management, inventory control, fulfillment, and financials into a single system. It automates the entire order lifecycle from multi-channel capture to invoicing and payments, with real-time visibility and scalability for global operations. Customizable workflows and AI insights further enhance efficiency for complex supply chains.
Pros
- Robust end-to-end order automation with real-time inventory syncing
- Seamless multi-channel integrations (e-commerce, POS, EDI)
- Highly scalable for enterprises with advanced analytics and customization
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex configuration
- Expensive pricing and lengthy implementation (often 6+ months)
- Overkill for small businesses with simple needs
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing integrated, scalable order processing across global operations.
Pricing
Quote-based; starts at ~$10,000/year base + $99-$199/user/month, plus implementation fees.
Linnworks
specializedCentralizes multi-channel orders with automation for processing, routing, and inventory updates.
Automation Workbench for creating complex, custom rules to automate order processing workflows
Linnworks is a robust e-commerce operations platform specializing in automated order processing for multichannel sellers. It automatically imports orders from over 100 sales channels, syncs inventory in real-time, and applies customizable rules to route, process, and fulfill orders efficiently. The software also includes warehouse management, shipping integrations, and analytics to streamline end-to-end operations.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 100+ marketplaces and carriers
- Powerful rules-based automation for order routing and processing
- Real-time inventory sync and advanced reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and customization
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume
- Occasional performance lags during peak times
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce businesses managing high-volume orders across multiple sales channels.
Pricing
Starts at $200/month for entry-level plans, with pricing scaling based on order volume (e.g., $500+/month for 1,000+ orders); custom enterprise options available.
Brightpearl
enterpriseUnifies retail order processing, inventory, and finance with automated workflows across channels.
Unified 360-degree order and customer view with automated workflows across retail, wholesale, and e-commerce channels
Brightpearl is a comprehensive cloud-based Retail Operating System designed to automate order processing, inventory management, and financial operations for multi-channel retailers. It integrates seamlessly with platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and eBay to handle order intake, fulfillment, and shipping in real-time. The platform provides end-to-end visibility, automating workflows from purchase orders to customer delivery while syncing data across sales channels, warehouses, and accounting systems.
Pros
- Robust multi-channel order integration and automation
- Real-time inventory and fulfillment tracking
- Built-in warehouse management and accounting tools
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing can be high for small businesses
- Limited flexibility for heavy customizations
Best For
Mid-sized multi-channel retailers seeking an all-in-one platform for scalable order automation and operations management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $500/month, scaling with order volume, users, and modules selected.
Orderhive
specializedAutomates multi-platform order consolidation, picking, packing, and shipping processes.
Smart Order Routing that automatically assigns orders to the optimal warehouse or carrier based on location and cost
Orderhive is a robust order management platform designed to automate order processing for multi-channel e-commerce sellers. It synchronizes inventory across platforms like Shopify, Amazon, eBay, and Walmart in real-time, while automating fulfillment workflows including picking, packing, and shipping label generation. The software also supports returns management and multi-warehouse operations to optimize logistics.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 100+ sales channels and carriers
- Real-time inventory sync to prevent overselling
- Automated order routing and fulfillment workflows
Cons
- Initial setup can be complex for non-technical users
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume
- Limited advanced analytics compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce businesses handling high-volume orders across multiple online marketplaces and needing robust multi-warehouse support.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Starter plan (up to 500 orders), $199/month for Growth (up to 2,500 orders), and custom Enterprise pricing.
Sellbrite
specializedAutomates order fulfillment and inventory management across online marketplaces and stores.
Rules-based automation engine for custom order routing and fulfillment decisions
Sellbrite is a multichannel e-commerce platform designed to automate order processing by centralizing orders from major marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, Walmart, Etsy, and over 100 others. It enables real-time inventory synchronization to prevent overselling and uses rules-based automation to route orders to shipping carriers or 3PL providers. The software streamlines fulfillment workflows, generates packing slips, and provides basic reporting for order management.
Pros
- Strong multi-channel order import and inventory sync
- Flexible rules engine for automating fulfillment routing
- Integrations with popular shipping tools like ShipStation
Cons
- Pricing increases steeply with order volume
- Reporting features are basic compared to competitors
- Occasional delays in real-time sync reported by users
Best For
Multi-channel e-commerce sellers managing moderate order volumes across multiple marketplaces who need automated fulfillment routing.
Pricing
Tiered plans start at $49/month (Growth: 200 listings/100 orders), $149/month (Pro: 2,000 listings/1,000 orders), up to custom Enterprise pricing.
Extensiv Order Manager
enterpriseOrchestrates order processing across distributed warehouses with advanced automation rules.
Extensiv's proprietary EDI Network, the largest in the industry, enabling instant connectivity to thousands of trading partners without custom mapping.
Extensiv Order Manager is a cloud-based platform designed for automating order intake, processing, and fulfillment, primarily through robust EDI integrations and multi-channel support from e-commerce platforms, marketplaces, and suppliers. It excels in orchestrating orders for 3PLs and distributors by applying business rules for validation, splitting, and routing to connected warehouse systems. The software ensures compliance with trading partner requirements and scales for high-volume operations.
Pros
- Superior EDI translation and network connectivity for seamless partner onboarding
- Powerful rules-based automation for order splitting, validation, and exception handling
- Deep integration with WMS and TMS for end-to-end fulfillment orchestration
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring IT expertise
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses or low-volume users
- Reporting and analytics are functional but not as intuitive or customizable as competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large 3PLs and distributors handling high-volume EDI orders that need scalable automation and compliance.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting around $1,000-$5,000/month depending on order volume, users, and modules; includes implementation fees.
Fishbowl
specializedAutomates order management and inventory tracking integrated with QuickBooks for SMBs.
Bi-directional QuickBooks synchronization that automates inventory updates and order data flow without manual entry
Fishbowl is an inventory management platform with strong automated order processing capabilities, integrating seamlessly with QuickBooks to handle order imports from e-commerce channels like Shopify, Amazon, and EDI sources. It automates picking, packing, shipping workflows using barcode scanning and generates fulfillment documents while maintaining real-time inventory accuracy across multiple locations. Ideal for businesses needing robust warehouse management alongside order automation, it also supports light manufacturing processes.
Pros
- Deep QuickBooks integration for automated accounting sync
- Multi-channel order import and barcode-driven fulfillment
- Multi-location inventory tracking with robust reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Primarily on-premise deployment limits cloud flexibility
- Higher upfront costs compared to pure SaaS alternatives
Best For
Small to mid-sized distributors and light manufacturers using QuickBooks who require integrated inventory and order processing automation.
Pricing
One-time license starts at $4,395 plus annual maintenance (~20%); subscription tiers from $439/month.
Katana MRP
specializedAutomates production orders, inventory planning, and fulfillment for manufacturers.
Live Inventory Sync with automatic production/purchase order generation triggered by incoming sales orders
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software that automates inventory management, production scheduling, and order processing for makers, manufacturers, and distributors. It syncs sales orders from e-commerce platforms like Shopify, automatically generates production or purchase orders based on stock levels, and provides real-time visibility across multiple warehouses. Ideal for bridging sales, inventory, and manufacturing, it streamlines the entire order fulfillment pipeline from quote to delivery.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce (Shopify, WooCommerce) and accounting tools (QuickBooks, Xero) for automated order syncing
- Real-time inventory tracking and dynamic replenishment to prevent stockouts during order processing
- Visual planning board for intuitive production scheduling and order prioritization
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced multi-location or complex manufacturing automation
- Limited built-in shipping label generation compared to dedicated fulfillment software
- Reporting and analytics lack deep customization without enterprise plans
Best For
Small to mid-sized manufacturers and distributors who need to automate order processing integrated with production planning and inventory control.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Essentials, up to 100 orders/mo), $299/month (Professional, unlimited orders), Enterprise custom; 14-day free trial.
Conclusion
Across a spectrum of automated order processing tools, ShipStation rises as the top performer, excelling in multi-channel order import and shipping workflow automation. Cin7 shines with its omnichannel real-time inventory sync, while NetSuite leads with end-to-end ERP integration, offering strong alternatives to suit varied business needs. Together, these solutions demonstrate the power of automation in simplifying order management.
Take the first step toward smoother operations—explore ShipStation to unlock efficient, error-free order processing and focus on growing your business.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison