Quick Overview
- 1#1: Metrc - State-mandated seed-to-sale traceability platform ensuring regulatory compliance for cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, and retail.
- 2#2: Akerna - Enterprise cannabis management platform providing compliance tracking, inventory management, and business intelligence reporting.
- 3#3: BioTrack - Regulatory compliance software offering real-time seed-to-sale tracking and audit-ready reporting for cannabis operations.
- 4#4: Distru - Cannabis ERP system with built-in compliance tools for inventory traceability, manufacturing, and regulatory submissions.
- 5#5: Flourish Software - All-in-one cannabis business platform automating compliance, sales, inventory, and multi-state reporting.
- 6#6: IndicaOnline - POS and compliance software for dispensaries featuring real-time inventory tracking and regulatory integration.
- 7#7: Viridian Sciences - ERP solution focused on cannabis compliance, lab testing integration, and supply chain traceability.
- 8#8: Trellis - Cannabis cultivation and compliance software for tracking plants, inventory, and generating regulatory reports.
- 9#9: Leaf Logix - Seed-to-sale compliance platform integrating POS, inventory, and state reporting for cannabis retailers.
- 10#10: Cova - Dispensary POS system with compliance features for secure transactions, inventory control, and tax reporting.
These tools were selected and ranked based on key features like seed-to-sale traceability, real-time reporting, and industry integration, alongside factors such as user experience, scalability, and overall value to cannabis operations.
Comparison Table
Cannabis compliance demands robust software, and this comparison table explores top tools including Metrc, Akerna, BioTrack, Distru, Flourish Software, and additional options. Learn how these solutions align with regulatory needs, evaluate key features, and suit varied business sizes to make informed choices for seamless compliance and operational efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Metrc State-mandated seed-to-sale traceability platform ensuring regulatory compliance for cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, and retail. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Akerna Enterprise cannabis management platform providing compliance tracking, inventory management, and business intelligence reporting. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | BioTrack Regulatory compliance software offering real-time seed-to-sale tracking and audit-ready reporting for cannabis operations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Distru Cannabis ERP system with built-in compliance tools for inventory traceability, manufacturing, and regulatory submissions. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Flourish Software All-in-one cannabis business platform automating compliance, sales, inventory, and multi-state reporting. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | IndicaOnline POS and compliance software for dispensaries featuring real-time inventory tracking and regulatory integration. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Viridian Sciences ERP solution focused on cannabis compliance, lab testing integration, and supply chain traceability. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Trellis Cannabis cultivation and compliance software for tracking plants, inventory, and generating regulatory reports. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Leaf Logix Seed-to-sale compliance platform integrating POS, inventory, and state reporting for cannabis retailers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | Cova Dispensary POS system with compliance features for secure transactions, inventory control, and tax reporting. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
State-mandated seed-to-sale traceability platform ensuring regulatory compliance for cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, and retail.
Enterprise cannabis management platform providing compliance tracking, inventory management, and business intelligence reporting.
Regulatory compliance software offering real-time seed-to-sale tracking and audit-ready reporting for cannabis operations.
Cannabis ERP system with built-in compliance tools for inventory traceability, manufacturing, and regulatory submissions.
All-in-one cannabis business platform automating compliance, sales, inventory, and multi-state reporting.
POS and compliance software for dispensaries featuring real-time inventory tracking and regulatory integration.
ERP solution focused on cannabis compliance, lab testing integration, and supply chain traceability.
Cannabis cultivation and compliance software for tracking plants, inventory, and generating regulatory reports.
Seed-to-sale compliance platform integrating POS, inventory, and state reporting for cannabis retailers.
Dispensary POS system with compliance features for secure transactions, inventory control, and tax reporting.
Metrc
specializedState-mandated seed-to-sale traceability platform ensuring regulatory compliance for cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, and retail.
Government-mandated seed-to-sale traceability with immutable audit trails for full regulatory enforcement
Metrc is the premier track-and-trace compliance software for the cannabis industry, mandated in over 30 U.S. states for seed-to-sale tracking. It enables cultivators, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to manage inventory, report transactions, and generate audit-ready reports to meet strict regulatory requirements. The platform integrates with POS systems, ERP software, and lab testing services for seamless operations.
Pros
- State-mandated standard ensuring universal compliance
- Robust seed-to-sale traceability with real-time data syncing
- Extensive integrations and customizable reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High ongoing costs for tags and API access
- Customer support can be slow during peak periods
Best For
Large-scale cannabis operators in regulated states requiring mandatory compliance tracking for multi-facility operations.
Pricing
State-dependent licensing fees starting at $500-$2,000/month per facility, plus $0.20-$0.60 per RFID tag/package and optional API fees.
Akerna
enterpriseEnterprise cannabis management platform providing compliance tracking, inventory management, and business intelligence reporting.
End-to-end real-time traceability platform that unifies data across the supply chain for instant regulatory audits
Akerna is a comprehensive cannabis compliance software platform specializing in seed-to-sale traceability, inventory management, and regulatory reporting for the cannabis industry. It enables businesses to track products from cultivation to sale, automate state-specific compliance submissions, and generate real-time analytics for operational insights. With strong integrations to POS systems and METRC, Akerna supports multi-state operators in maintaining audit-ready records and minimizing regulatory risks.
Pros
- Robust seed-to-sale tracking with METRC integration
- Automated compliance reporting for multiple states
- Scalable for enterprise-level multi-location operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Custom pricing can be expensive for small businesses
- Occasional delays in custom report generation
Best For
Multi-state cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, and retailers requiring enterprise-grade compliance and traceability.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $500-$1,000 per month per location based on scale, with quotes required.
BioTrack
specializedRegulatory compliance software offering real-time seed-to-sale tracking and audit-ready reporting for cannabis operations.
Direct, real-time integration with state regulatory systems for automated compliance reporting and licensing enforcement
BioTrack is a comprehensive seed-to-sale tracking and compliance software designed specifically for the cannabis industry, providing real-time inventory management, traceability, and regulatory reporting from cultivation through retail sales. It integrates directly with state systems like those in Nevada and Ohio, ensuring METRC compatibility and automated compliance submissions. The platform supports point-of-sale functions, lab testing integration, and robust audit trails to minimize regulatory risks.
Pros
- Proven state integrations and METRC compatibility for seamless compliance
- Comprehensive seed-to-sale traceability with strong audit capabilities
- Reliable real-time inventory and reporting tools
Cons
- Dated user interface with a steep learning curve
- Higher pricing that may not suit small operations
- Limited flexibility for multi-state or custom workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, and dispensaries in heavily regulated states needing robust, government-approved compliance tracking.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote, typically starting at $500–$1,500/month based on location, user count, and scale, with additional fees for integrations.
Distru
enterpriseCannabis ERP system with built-in compliance tools for inventory traceability, manufacturing, and regulatory submissions.
Real-time, bidirectional METRC integration with automated compliance alerts and audit-ready reporting
Distru is a robust supply chain management platform designed specifically for the cannabis industry, providing end-to-end traceability from seed to sale. It integrates deeply with state systems like METRC for real-time compliance tracking, inventory management, manufacturing batch control, and sales fulfillment. The software emphasizes regulatory adherence through automated reporting, audit trails, and scalability for growing operations.
Pros
- Seamless METRC integration for real-time compliance syncing
- Comprehensive seed-to-sale tracking with manufacturing support
- Advanced analytics and reporting for audits and insights
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for complex features
- Custom quote-based pricing can be expensive for small businesses
- Limited out-of-box customizations without developer support
Best For
Mid-to-large cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, and distributors needing integrated supply chain and compliance tools.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $1,000-$2,500/month depending on operation size and modules.
Flourish Software
specializedAll-in-one cannabis business platform automating compliance, sales, inventory, and multi-state reporting.
Automated real-time METRC syncing with proactive compliance violation alerts
Flourish Software (getflourish.com) is a cannabis compliance platform designed to streamline seed-to-sale tracking, inventory management, and regulatory reporting for dispensaries, cultivators, and manufacturers. It integrates deeply with METRC and other state systems to automate compliance tasks, reducing errors and penalties. The tool also supports point-of-sale integration and real-time data syncing to help businesses operate legally across multiple states.
Pros
- Seamless METRC integration for automated seed-to-sale tracking
- Real-time compliance alerts to prevent violations
- Scalable for multi-state operations
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small single-store operators
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Limited built-in analytics compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized cannabis businesses with multi-state needs requiring robust METRC compliance and inventory tracking.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting at around $300/month for basic plans, scaling to $1,000+ for enterprise features.
IndicaOnline
specializedPOS and compliance software for dispensaries featuring real-time inventory tracking and regulatory integration.
Automated, bi-directional Metrc integration for real-time seed-to-sale compliance without manual data entry
IndicaOnline is a comprehensive cannabis management platform tailored for dispensaries, cultivators, and manufacturers, focusing on compliance, POS, and inventory control. It excels in seed-to-sale tracking with seamless integrations to state systems like Metrc and BioTrack, ensuring accurate regulatory reporting and preventing compliance violations. The software also supports e-commerce, delivery management, and analytics to help businesses scale operations while maintaining strict adherence to cannabis regulations.
Pros
- Robust seed-to-sale tracking and Metrc integration for effortless compliance
- Real-time inventory and regulatory reporting to minimize audit risks
- Integrated POS and delivery tools that streamline daily operations
Cons
- Custom pricing can be opaque and higher for small operations
- Learning curve for advanced compliance customizations
- Limited third-party integrations compared to some competitors
Best For
Mid-sized cannabis dispensaries and multi-location operators prioritizing state-compliant tracking and reporting.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at around $250/month per location, scaling with users, stores, and add-ons like delivery or e-commerce.
Viridian Sciences
enterpriseERP solution focused on cannabis compliance, lab testing integration, and supply chain traceability.
Built-in compliance auditing engine that proactively flags regulatory discrepancies in real-time
Viridian Sciences offers a cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) tailored for cannabis testing laboratories, automating sample intake, testing workflows, inventory management, and compliance reporting. It ensures regulatory adherence through integration with state track-and-trace systems like METRC and BioTrack, while maintaining chain-of-custody and data integrity. The platform supports real-time analytics and automated Certificate of Analysis (COA) generation to streamline operations for licensed labs.
Pros
- Seamless integration with METRC and state compliance systems
- Robust sample tracking and chain-of-custody features
- Automated COA generation and real-time reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical lab staff
- Limited focus on non-lab operations like cultivation or retail
- Pricing requires custom quotes, lacking transparency
Best For
Cannabis testing labs needing specialized LIMS for regulatory compliance and workflow automation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting around $5,000/month based on lab size and modules; contact sales for demo and quote.
Trellis
specializedCannabis cultivation and compliance software for tracking plants, inventory, and generating regulatory reports.
Automated METRC reconciliation engine that identifies and resolves compliance discrepancies in real-time
Trellis is a cannabis compliance software platform focused on seed-to-sale tracking, automated state reporting, and inventory management for cultivators, manufacturers, and multi-state operators. It excels in METRC integrations, providing real-time compliance monitoring, plant tagging, and error resolution to prevent regulatory violations. The tool streamlines operations by automating data syncing and generating audit-ready reports, reducing manual work for cannabis businesses.
Pros
- Seamless METRC integration with automated syncing and error fixes
- Strong multi-state compliance support for cultivators and manufacturers
- Real-time inventory and plant tracking reduces audit risks
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Pricing can be high for smaller operations
- Limited features for retail point-of-sale compared to full ERP systems
Best For
Mid-sized cannabis cultivators and manufacturers operating in multiple METRC states who prioritize automated compliance over ease of setup.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $500/month for small operations, scaling with licenses, plants, or users; free demo available.
Leaf Logix
specializedSeed-to-sale compliance platform integrating POS, inventory, and state reporting for cannabis retailers.
Proactive compliance alerts that automatically flag potential violations in real-time
Leaf Logix is a cannabis compliance and operations platform that provides seed-to-sale tracking, inventory management, and automated reporting for dispensaries, cultivators, and manufacturers. It integrates seamlessly with METRC and state regulatory systems, particularly in markets like New Jersey and Pennsylvania, ensuring real-time compliance monitoring and data accuracy. The software also includes POS integration, sales analytics, and mobile accessibility to streamline daily operations while minimizing regulatory risks.
Pros
- Seamless METRC integration for automated compliance reporting
- Real-time inventory tracking with mobile app support
- Strong customer support tailored to cannabis regulations
Cons
- Pricing on the higher end for smaller operations
- Moderate learning curve for advanced features
- Primarily focused on US East Coast markets
Best For
Mid-sized dispensaries and cultivators in METRC-regulated states like NJ and PA needing robust compliance tools.
Pricing
Custom pricing via quote; typically starts at $400-$600/month based on business size, modules, and user licenses.
Cova
specializedDispensary POS system with compliance features for secure transactions, inventory control, and tax reporting.
Real-time METRC seed-to-sale traceability with automated compliance uploads
Cova is a cannabis-specific POS and compliance software that integrates point-of-sale functionality with seed-to-sale tracking and regulatory reporting for dispensaries. It excels in METRC integration for real-time compliance data submission across multiple states, alongside inventory management, e-commerce, and delivery tools. Designed for retail operators, it helps streamline operations while minimizing audit risks in the highly regulated cannabis market.
Pros
- Robust METRC integration for seamless state compliance reporting
- All-in-one POS with inventory and multi-store support
- Strong security features tailored to cannabis regulations
Cons
- Higher pricing with required hardware bundles
- Steeper learning curve for advanced compliance modules
- Limited third-party integrations compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized cannabis dispensaries in METRC states seeking reliable compliance and POS without needing extensive customizations.
Pricing
Starts at $499/month per location for software (Essentials plan), plus one-time hardware costs of $2,000-$5,000; higher tiers up to $1,499/month for Enterprise features.
Conclusion
In the landscape of cannabis compliance software, Metrc leads as the top choice, offering thorough state-mandated traceability across cultivation, manufacturing, and retail. Though Metrc sets the standard, Akerna and BioTrack stand as strong alternatives—Akerna for enterprise management and BioTrack for real-time audit readiness—each addressing distinct operational needs. Regardless of specific requirements, these tools ensure robust compliance, with Metrc emerging as the most comprehensive option.
Ready to streamline compliance? Start with Metrc to leverage its end-to-end capabilities and lay a solid foundation for efficient, regulated cannabis operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison