Quick Overview
- 1#1: CDK Global - Provides a comprehensive dealer management system handling sales, service, parts, inventory, and finance for construction equipment dealers.
- 2#2: Epicor - Offers robust ERP software for equipment distributors managing inventory, supply chain, CRM, and operational workflows.
- 3#3: Reynolds and Reynolds - Delivers integrated DMS solutions with advanced features for parts, service, sales tracking, and dealer operations in heavy equipment.
- 4#4: Oracle NetSuite - Cloud ERP platform that unifies financials, inventory management, order processing, and CRM for construction dealers.
- 5#5: Microsoft Dynamics 365 - Integrated cloud-based ERP and CRM system for streamlining sales, service, finance, and supply chain in dealer environments.
- 6#6: IFS - Enterprise software focused on asset management, field service, and maintenance for construction equipment dealerships.
- 7#7: Infor - CloudSuite distribution ERP optimizing inventory, procurement, sales, and warehousing for equipment dealers.
- 8#8: SAP Business One - ERP solution for small to midsize dealers handling accounting, inventory, sales, and customer management.
- 9#9: SYSPRO - Flexible ERP system supporting manufacturing, distribution, and dealer operations with strong inventory control.
- 10#10: Sage 300 - Construction-focused ERP for job costing, project management, accounting, and distribution in dealer settings.
Tools were evaluated based on feature relevance (including sales, inventory, and service capabilities), user experience, scalability, and value, ensuring alignment with the unique needs of construction equipment distribution.
Comparison Table
Construction dealers rely on tailored management software to streamline operations, and this comparison table evaluates top solutions like CDK Global, Epicor, Reynolds and Reynolds, Oracle NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics 365, and more. It breaks down key features, usability, and scalability, helping readers identify the best fit for their business needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CDK Global Provides a comprehensive dealer management system handling sales, service, parts, inventory, and finance for construction equipment dealers. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Epicor Offers robust ERP software for equipment distributors managing inventory, supply chain, CRM, and operational workflows. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | Reynolds and Reynolds Delivers integrated DMS solutions with advanced features for parts, service, sales tracking, and dealer operations in heavy equipment. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 6.9/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 4 | Oracle NetSuite Cloud ERP platform that unifies financials, inventory management, order processing, and CRM for construction dealers. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | Microsoft Dynamics 365 Integrated cloud-based ERP and CRM system for streamlining sales, service, finance, and supply chain in dealer environments. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 6 | IFS Enterprise software focused on asset management, field service, and maintenance for construction equipment dealerships. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Infor CloudSuite distribution ERP optimizing inventory, procurement, sales, and warehousing for equipment dealers. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | SAP Business One ERP solution for small to midsize dealers handling accounting, inventory, sales, and customer management. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | SYSPRO Flexible ERP system supporting manufacturing, distribution, and dealer operations with strong inventory control. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.3/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | Sage 300 Construction-focused ERP for job costing, project management, accounting, and distribution in dealer settings. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Provides a comprehensive dealer management system handling sales, service, parts, inventory, and finance for construction equipment dealers.
Offers robust ERP software for equipment distributors managing inventory, supply chain, CRM, and operational workflows.
Delivers integrated DMS solutions with advanced features for parts, service, sales tracking, and dealer operations in heavy equipment.
Cloud ERP platform that unifies financials, inventory management, order processing, and CRM for construction dealers.
Integrated cloud-based ERP and CRM system for streamlining sales, service, finance, and supply chain in dealer environments.
Enterprise software focused on asset management, field service, and maintenance for construction equipment dealerships.
CloudSuite distribution ERP optimizing inventory, procurement, sales, and warehousing for equipment dealers.
ERP solution for small to midsize dealers handling accounting, inventory, sales, and customer management.
Flexible ERP system supporting manufacturing, distribution, and dealer operations with strong inventory control.
Construction-focused ERP for job costing, project management, accounting, and distribution in dealer settings.
CDK Global
enterpriseProvides a comprehensive dealer management system handling sales, service, parts, inventory, and finance for construction equipment dealers.
OEM-specific parts matrix and real-time inventory synchronization that minimizes downtime for heavy construction equipment repairs
CDK Global offers a comprehensive Dealer Management System (DMS) tailored for construction equipment dealers, streamlining operations across sales, service, parts inventory, finance, and CRM. It integrates seamlessly with OEM data feeds from manufacturers like Caterpillar and John Deere, providing real-time inventory visibility, advanced warranty processing, and robust analytics for equipment lifecycle management. The platform supports mobile access for technicians and salespeople, enabling efficient field service and deal finalization on the go.
Pros
- Deep integration with construction OEMs for accurate parts lookup and warranty claims
- Comprehensive end-to-end functionality covering heavy equipment sales, service, and finance
- Powerful analytics and reporting tools for optimizing inventory and profitability
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- High implementation and customization costs
- Limited flexibility for very small dealers without dedicated IT support
Best For
Large to enterprise-level construction equipment dealerships seeking a scalable, OEM-integrated DMS to manage complex operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing quoted per dealer location, typically starting at $5,000-$10,000/month based on size and modules, with implementation fees.
Epicor
enterpriseOffers robust ERP software for equipment distributors managing inventory, supply chain, CRM, and operational workflows.
Advanced OEM integrations enabling automated warranty claims, parts ordering, and service bulletins directly within the DMS
Epicor provides a comprehensive ERP and Dealer Management System (DMS) tailored for construction equipment dealerships, managing everything from inventory and sales to service, parts, rentals, and financials. It offers industry-specific workflows, OEM integrations for warranty processing and parts ordering, and advanced analytics for multi-location operations. Designed for heavy equipment dealers, it scales with business growth while ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
Pros
- Robust OEM integrations for seamless parts and warranty management
- Scalable for multi-site dealerships with strong inventory and service tools
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics for data-driven decisions
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity
- Steep learning curve for users
- Customization often requires professional services
Best For
Mid-to-large construction equipment dealerships with multiple locations seeking an integrated ERP-DMS solution.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically subscription-based starting at $500+ per user/month, with quotes required for full modules and implementation.
Reynolds and Reynolds
enterpriseDelivers integrated DMS solutions with advanced features for parts, service, sales tracking, and dealer operations in heavy equipment.
Reynolds 360° Reporting for unified analytics across sales, service, and parts operations
Reynolds and Reynolds provides a robust Dealer Management System (DMS) primarily designed for automotive dealerships but with adaptable features for construction equipment dealers, handling inventory tracking, sales processes, service scheduling, parts management, and customer relationship management. It integrates CRM, digital retailing tools, and financial services to streamline operations across the dealership lifecycle. While not natively tailored for heavy machinery or construction-specific needs like rental modules or equipment telematics, its core DMS functionalities offer a solid foundation for mid-sized construction dealers.
Pros
- Comprehensive inventory and parts management suitable for equipment tracking
- Strong integration with CRM and reporting tools for sales and service insights
- Reliable digital document management and F&I processing
Cons
- Limited customization for construction-specific features like heavy equipment rentals or telematics
- Steep learning curve and dated interface in some modules
- High implementation costs and less competitive pricing for non-automotive verticals
Best For
Mid-sized construction equipment dealerships seeking a proven all-in-one DMS with automotive-grade reliability but willing to adapt general tools.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $5,000+ per month for mid-sized dealers plus one-time setup fees; quotes required.
Oracle NetSuite
enterpriseCloud ERP platform that unifies financials, inventory management, order processing, and CRM for construction dealers.
Integrated rental and yard management SuiteApps for tracking equipment utilization and location in real-time.
Oracle NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform offering comprehensive financials, inventory management, CRM, and supply chain tools adaptable for construction equipment dealerships. It supports dealer-specific needs like parts inventory, service management, warranty tracking, rental operations, and project accounting through customizable SuiteApps. As an all-in-one solution, it provides real-time visibility and scalability for managing heavy equipment sales, service, and distribution across multiple locations.
Pros
- Highly scalable and integrated ERP with real-time data
- Robust customization via SuiteApps for dealer workflows
- Advanced analytics and multi-location support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation
- High pricing not ideal for small dealers
- Overkill for basic dealer management needs
Best For
Large construction equipment dealerships needing enterprise-grade ERP integration for complex operations.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at $10,000-$25,000/year for base plans, plus per-user fees ($99+/user/month) and implementation costs.
Microsoft Dynamics 365
enterpriseIntegrated cloud-based ERP and CRM system for streamlining sales, service, finance, and supply chain in dealer environments.
Integrated Field Service and IoT capabilities for real-time equipment tracking, predictive maintenance, and mobile technician dispatch
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP and CRM platform that can be customized for construction dealer management, handling inventory, sales, service, parts ordering, and financials through modules like Supply Chain Management, Field Service, and Project Operations. It enables dealers to manage equipment rentals, service contracts, customer relationships, and project billing in an integrated environment. While not a purpose-built DMS, its extensibility via Power Apps and Microsoft ecosystem integrations makes it viable for larger operations.
Pros
- Highly customizable with modules for inventory, field service, and project operations tailored to construction dealers
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365, Power BI, and Azure for analytics and collaboration
- Scalable for enterprise-level operations with AI-driven insights via Copilot
Cons
- Requires significant customization and implementation expertise, increasing setup time and costs
- High subscription pricing may not suit small to mid-sized dealers
- Steep learning curve despite low-code tools, often needing dedicated training
Best For
Large construction equipment dealers needing an enterprise-grade, fully integrated ERP/CRM within the Microsoft ecosystem.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$100/user/month for core apps, up to $200+ for full ERP suites; custom enterprise pricing with implementation fees.
IFS
enterpriseEnterprise software focused on asset management, field service, and maintenance for construction equipment dealerships.
AI-powered IFS Cloud Service Management for predictive field service and optimized technician dispatching
IFS (ifs.com) is an enterprise-grade ERP platform designed for asset-intensive industries, including construction equipment dealerships, offering integrated modules for dealer management such as inventory, sales, service, rental fleet, CRM, and financials. The IFS Cloud solution provides real-time visibility, mobile field service capabilities, and AI-driven insights to streamline operations from parts ordering to warranty management. It excels in complex, global dealer networks by unifying back-office and frontline processes.
Pros
- Comprehensive ERP integration covering sales, service, parts, and finance tailored for heavy equipment dealers
- Strong asset management and predictive maintenance tools for construction fleets
- Scalable cloud platform with global support and industry-specific configurations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring significant customization
- High upfront costs and ongoing fees not ideal for small dealers
- Less intuitive interface compared to niche DMS solutions
Best For
Large-scale construction equipment dealers with complex, international operations needing a full ERP suite beyond basic DMS.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; SaaS model typically starts at $100K+ annually for mid-sized dealers, scaling with users and modules.
Infor
enterpriseCloudSuite distribution ERP optimizing inventory, procurement, sales, and warehousing for equipment dealers.
Seamless OEM portal integrations for real-time warranty claims, parts pricing, and service bulletins directly within the DMS
Infor offers enterprise-grade Dealer Management System (DMS) solutions, particularly through products like Infor CloudSuite Distribution and industry-specific modules for construction equipment dealers. It streamlines operations across sales, inventory management, parts ordering, service workflows, warranty processing, and financials in a unified ERP platform. Designed for heavy equipment and construction machinery dealerships, it supports multi-site operations, OEM integrations, and advanced reporting to optimize dealer performance.
Pros
- Comprehensive industry-specific features for construction equipment dealers including robust service and warranty management
- Strong scalability for multi-location enterprises with deep OEM integrations
- Advanced analytics and reporting for inventory optimization and profitability insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring significant customization
- High upfront costs and ongoing fees not ideal for smaller dealers
- User interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native DMS competitors
Best For
Large-scale construction equipment dealerships with complex, multi-site operations needing enterprise ERP integration.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments with per-user licensing and implementation fees.
SAP Business One
enterpriseERP solution for small to midsize dealers handling accounting, inventory, sales, and customer management.
Material Requirements Planning (MRP) for efficient parts procurement and assembly in equipment service operations
SAP Business One is a comprehensive ERP platform designed for small to medium-sized businesses, providing integrated modules for financials, sales, purchasing, inventory, CRM, and service management. For construction dealer management, it excels in tracking heavy equipment inventory, parts sales, service contracts, and warranty processing through customizable workflows and add-ons. While not exclusively built for construction dealers, its flexibility supports rental tracking, job costing, and compliance reporting with proper configuration.
Pros
- Robust inventory and multi-location management for equipment and parts
- Integrated service module for maintenance scheduling and technician dispatch
- Advanced reporting and analytics for sales forecasting and profitability
Cons
- High initial implementation costs and customization needs
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- Overkill for small dealers without dedicated industry templates out-of-the-box
Best For
Mid-sized construction equipment dealers needing a scalable ERP with deep financial and operational integration.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$3,200 per user plus 22% annual maintenance; cloud subscription from $99/user/month (varies by partner and modules).
SYSPRO
enterpriseFlexible ERP system supporting manufacturing, distribution, and dealer operations with strong inventory control.
Infinite Insights analytics engine for predictive inventory optimization and demand forecasting in equipment parts
SYSPRO is a comprehensive ERP platform tailored for manufacturing, distribution, and service industries, including construction equipment dealers through its modular inventory, financials, and CRM capabilities. It enables management of heavy equipment sales, parts inventory, service contracts, and rental operations with strong supply chain and reporting tools. While customizable for dealer workflows, it excels in enterprise-scale operations rather than niche dealer-specific automations.
Pros
- Robust inventory and supply chain management with lot/serial tracking
- Highly customizable modules for complex dealer operations
- Scalable for multi-location construction dealerships
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup
- High implementation and customization costs
- Lacks out-of-the-box construction dealer-specific features like OEM integrations
Best For
Large construction equipment dealers needing a flexible, enterprise ERP for inventory, finance, and operations integration.
Pricing
Quote-based; typically $15,000+ annually for mid-tier deployments with modules and users, plus implementation fees.
Sage 300
enterpriseConstruction-focused ERP for job costing, project management, accounting, and distribution in dealer settings.
Advanced job costing engine that allocates costs across projects, rentals, and service jobs in real-time for precise dealer profitability analysis
Sage 300 is a robust ERP platform primarily designed for construction, real estate, and distribution industries, providing comprehensive financial management, project accounting, job costing, and inventory control. For construction dealer management, it handles equipment sales, rentals, service billing, and inventory tracking through its distribution modules, though it often requires customizations or add-ons for full dealer workflows. It supports multi-entity operations and integrates with field service tools, making it suitable for mid-sized dealers with complex financial needs.
Pros
- Powerful job costing and project management for construction-specific financial tracking
- Scalable inventory and distribution modules supporting lot/serial tracking for equipment dealers
- Strong multi-company and multi-currency capabilities for growing dealer networks
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring extensive training
- Limited native dealer management features like advanced service scheduling without add-ons
- High implementation and customization costs
Best For
Mid-sized construction equipment dealers needing integrated ERP with emphasis on accounting and project-based financials rather than pure CRM or service ticketing.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing; typically $100-$300 per user/month depending on modules, with implementation fees often exceeding $50,000.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed tools, CDK Global stands as the top choice, offering a comprehensive system that integrates sales, service, parts, inventory, and finance for construction equipment dealers. Epicor and Reynolds and Reynolds follow strongly—Epicor for robust ERP and supply chain management, Reynolds for integrated DMS with advanced heavy equipment tools—each providing unique strengths to suit different operational needs. Success hinges on aligning with specific business goals, but CDK Global leads with its all-encompassing capabilities.
Don’t settle for less—begin exploring CDK Global today to experience its optimized workflows and take your dealership’s operations to new heights.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison