Quick Overview
- 1#1: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based inventory management software that automates purchase orders, sales fulfillment, and multi-warehouse tracking.
- 2#2: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory control solution with seamless QuickBooks integration for purchase orders, manufacturing, and order management.
- 3#3: Cin7 - Core inventory platform that handles purchase orders, multi-channel sales, and real-time stock visibility for retailers.
- 4#4: DEAR Inventory - Cloud ERP for inventory, purchase orders, manufacturing, and accounting with strong automation features.
- 5#5: Katana MRP - Real-time cloud inventory and manufacturing resource planning software with automated purchase order generation.
- 6#6: inFlow Inventory - On-premise and cloud inventory management tool for purchase orders, sales, and barcode scanning.
- 7#7: Unleashed - Cloud-based inventory software focused on purchase order automation, multi-location tracking, and B2B sales.
- 8#8: Odoo - Open-source ERP platform with integrated inventory and purchase order management for businesses of all sizes.
- 9#9: NetSuite - Comprehensive cloud ERP system offering advanced inventory control, procurement, and purchase order processing.
- 10#10: MRPeasy - Cloud manufacturing ERP that manages inventory, production planning, and purchase orders for small manufacturers.
Tools were evaluated and ranked based on features (automation, integration, multi-location support), reliability, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring they cater to both small businesses and large enterprises with varying operational demands.
Comparison Table
Explore the world of Inventory and Purchase Order Software with our comparison table, showcasing tools like Zoho Inventory, Fishbowl Inventory, Cin7, DEAR Inventory, Katana MRP, and additional options. This resource simplifies decision-making by highlighting features, workflow efficiency, and integration potential to help readers find the right software for their operations.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based inventory management software that automates purchase orders, sales fulfillment, and multi-warehouse tracking. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory control solution with seamless QuickBooks integration for purchase orders, manufacturing, and order management. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | Cin7 Core inventory platform that handles purchase orders, multi-channel sales, and real-time stock visibility for retailers. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | DEAR Inventory Cloud ERP for inventory, purchase orders, manufacturing, and accounting with strong automation features. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Katana MRP Real-time cloud inventory and manufacturing resource planning software with automated purchase order generation. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | inFlow Inventory On-premise and cloud inventory management tool for purchase orders, sales, and barcode scanning. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Unleashed Cloud-based inventory software focused on purchase order automation, multi-location tracking, and B2B sales. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 8 | Odoo Open-source ERP platform with integrated inventory and purchase order management for businesses of all sizes. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 9 | NetSuite Comprehensive cloud ERP system offering advanced inventory control, procurement, and purchase order processing. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | MRPeasy Cloud manufacturing ERP that manages inventory, production planning, and purchase orders for small manufacturers. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
Cloud-based inventory management software that automates purchase orders, sales fulfillment, and multi-warehouse tracking.
Advanced inventory control solution with seamless QuickBooks integration for purchase orders, manufacturing, and order management.
Core inventory platform that handles purchase orders, multi-channel sales, and real-time stock visibility for retailers.
Cloud ERP for inventory, purchase orders, manufacturing, and accounting with strong automation features.
Real-time cloud inventory and manufacturing resource planning software with automated purchase order generation.
On-premise and cloud inventory management tool for purchase orders, sales, and barcode scanning.
Cloud-based inventory software focused on purchase order automation, multi-location tracking, and B2B sales.
Open-source ERP platform with integrated inventory and purchase order management for businesses of all sizes.
Comprehensive cloud ERP system offering advanced inventory control, procurement, and purchase order processing.
Cloud manufacturing ERP that manages inventory, production planning, and purchase orders for small manufacturers.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based inventory management software that automates purchase orders, sales fulfillment, and multi-warehouse tracking.
Smart reorder points with vendor-managed inventory (VMI) for automated, predictive restocking
Zoho Inventory is a comprehensive cloud-based platform specializing in inventory management and purchase order automation for small to medium-sized businesses. It enables real-time tracking across multiple warehouses, serial/batch number management, and automated reorder points to prevent stockouts. The software excels in purchase order creation, vendor management, 3-way matching for payments, and seamless integrations with Zoho Books, Shopify, Amazon, and more, streamlining the entire procurement and fulfillment process.
Pros
- Extensive inventory features including multi-location support, kits/bundles, and barcode scanning
- Robust purchase order tools with vendor portals, approvals, and automated workflows
- Deep integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and shipping platforms for end-to-end automation
Cons
- Advanced reporting and customizations locked behind higher-tier plans
- Steeper learning curve for complex setups despite intuitive UI
- Mobile app lacks some desktop functionalities
Best For
Small to medium businesses seeking scalable inventory and procurement management with strong ecosystem integrations.
Pricing
Free plan (up to 20 online orders/month); paid plans start at $29/mo (Standard), $79/mo (Professional), $159/mo (Elite), billed annually.
Fishbowl Inventory
specializedAdvanced inventory control solution with seamless QuickBooks integration for purchase orders, manufacturing, and order management.
Real-time, two-way QuickBooks integration that syncs inventory, orders, and financials automatically
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust on-premise inventory management software tailored for small to midsize businesses, offering advanced tracking of stock levels, purchase orders, sales orders, and manufacturing workflows. It supports multi-location inventory, lot and serial number tracking, barcode scanning, and cycle counting to streamline warehouse operations. The platform stands out for its deep, real-time two-way integration with QuickBooks, ensuring seamless accounting synchronization without manual data entry.
Pros
- Seamless real-time integration with QuickBooks and other ERPs
- Comprehensive inventory tools including multi-location, lot/serial tracking, and manufacturing BOMs
- Powerful purchase order automation with vendor management and receiving
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Upfront perpetual licensing costs plus annual maintenance
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Mid-sized distributors, manufacturers, and warehouses using QuickBooks that need detailed inventory and PO control.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,395 for Warehouse edition and $6,595 for Manufacturing, plus ~20% annual maintenance/support fees.
Cin7
enterpriseCore inventory platform that handles purchase orders, multi-channel sales, and real-time stock visibility for retailers.
Real-time synchronization across unlimited sales channels and warehouses via 700+ native integrations
Cin7 is a comprehensive cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for retailers, wholesalers, and e-commerce businesses, providing real-time tracking across multiple warehouses, sales channels, and locations. It excels in purchase order automation, supplier management, and order fulfillment, with seamless integrations to over 700 apps including Shopify, Amazon, QuickBooks, and Xero. The software centralizes inventory data to prevent stockouts or overstocking, while offering B2B portals and advanced reporting for scaling operations.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ platforms for multi-channel sync
- Real-time inventory visibility across unlimited locations
- Robust purchase order automation and supplier portal
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex setups
- High pricing unsuitable for very small businesses
- Customer support can be slow during peak times
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce retailers and wholesalers with multiple sales channels needing centralized inventory control and automated purchase orders.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting at $349/month for Operations plan (billed annually), scaling to $599+ for Core and Control plans with more users and features.
DEAR Inventory
enterpriseCloud ERP for inventory, purchase orders, manufacturing, and accounting with strong automation features.
Deep, native two-way integrations with over 100 platforms including QuickBooks, Xero, Shopify, and WooCommerce for automated data sync.
DEAR Inventory is a robust cloud-based inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses handling complex inventory needs. It provides real-time stock tracking across multiple locations, automated purchase order generation, and seamless sales order fulfillment integrated with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Amazon. The platform also supports light manufacturing, B2B portals, and deep integrations with accounting tools such as QuickBooks and Xero for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and POS systems
- Advanced inventory tools including multi-location tracking and lot/serial number management
- Built-in purchase order automation and supplier management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Higher pricing may not suit very small businesses
- Custom reporting requires workarounds or add-ons
Best For
Growing SMBs with multi-channel sales, multiple warehouses, and light manufacturing requirements.
Pricing
Starts at $199 AUD/month for Starter (up to 5 users), $349 for Growth, $599 for Corporate, billed annually with custom Enterprise options.
Katana MRP
specializedReal-time cloud inventory and manufacturing resource planning software with automated purchase order generation.
Visual production planning board with drag-and-drop scheduling and real-time MRP calculations
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software designed for small to medium-sized manufacturers to manage inventory, production, and purchases in real-time. It provides tools for tracking stock levels across multiple locations, automating purchase orders based on reorder points, and handling bills of materials (BOMs) for efficient production planning. The platform integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting software like QuickBooks, enabling seamless order-to-fulfillment workflows.
Pros
- Real-time inventory tracking with multi-warehouse support
- Automated purchase order generation and supplier management
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced features
- Learning curve for complex BOM and production setups
- Limited advanced reporting in entry-level plans
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers seeking integrated inventory, production scheduling, and purchase order automation.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Maker plan for up to 100 orders), $299/month (Manufacturer), up to custom enterprise pricing; 14-day free trial available.
inFlow Inventory
specializedOn-premise and cloud inventory management tool for purchase orders, sales, and barcode scanning.
Hybrid cloud/on-premise deployment with full offline mobile capabilities
inFlow Inventory is a comprehensive inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering robust tools for tracking stock levels, managing purchase orders, sales, and light manufacturing across multiple locations. It supports barcode scanning through a dedicated mobile app, real-time reporting, and seamless integrations with platforms like QuickBooks, Shopify, and WooCommerce. The software provides both cloud-based and on-premise deployment options, making it flexible for various business needs.
Pros
- Multi-location inventory tracking with real-time sync
- Strong mobile app for barcode scanning and offline use
- Deep integrations with QuickBooks and e-commerce platforms
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams or advanced features
- Reporting lacks some advanced customization options
- On-premise version requires technical setup
Best For
Small to medium businesses with multiple warehouses or retail outlets needing reliable inventory control and purchase order automation.
Pricing
Cloud: starts at $89/month (1 user, Basic); $129/month (Pro, up to 5 users); On-premise: $999-$2,999 one-time license + $289-$599/year support.
Unleashed
specializedCloud-based inventory software focused on purchase order automation, multi-location tracking, and B2B sales.
Precise landed cost tracking that allocates freight, duties, and overheads to inventory for accurate costing and profitability.
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers, offering real-time tracking across multiple locations. It excels in purchase order creation, approval workflows, supplier management, and goods receiving, with features like batch/serial tracking and landed cost allocation. The platform integrates with accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks, plus e-commerce systems, streamlining inventory and procurement processes.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility and control
- Automated purchase order management with approvals and 3-way matching
- Seamless integrations with accounting and e-commerce platforms
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for complex configurations
- Reporting customization is somewhat limited
Best For
Medium-sized wholesalers and distributors requiring robust, scalable inventory and purchase order automation.
Pricing
Starts at $85 AUD/month (Solo plan, 1 user), scales to $485 AUD/month (Advanced, 10 users) or custom Enterprise; annual billing offers discounts.
Odoo
enterpriseOpen-source ERP platform with integrated inventory and purchase order management for businesses of all sizes.
Intelligent reordering rules that automatically generate purchase orders from inventory forecasts and min/max stock levels
Odoo is an open-source ERP platform with powerful inventory and purchase order modules that enable real-time stock tracking, multi-warehouse management, and automated procurement processes. It supports features like reordering rules, RFQs, purchase approvals, and integration with suppliers for seamless order fulfillment. Businesses can handle lot/serial tracking, inventory valuations, and purchase analytics within a unified system.
Pros
- Highly customizable modules with deep integration between inventory and purchases
- Advanced automation like auto-generated POs based on stock forecasts
- Free community edition with robust core functionality
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and customization
- Performance can lag with very large inventories without proper hosting
- Enterprise features and support add significant costs
Best For
Growing SMBs needing scalable, integrated inventory and procurement in a full ERP suite.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise plans start at $24.90/user/month (billed annually) including apps and hosting.
NetSuite
enterpriseComprehensive cloud ERP system offering advanced inventory control, procurement, and purchase order processing.
Real-time, multi-subsidiary inventory synchronization with advanced demand planning and replenishment automation
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform that excels in inventory management and purchase order automation, offering real-time visibility across multi-location warehouses, lot and serial number tracking, and demand forecasting. Its purchase order module streamlines vendor management, approvals, and three-way matching with integrated accounting. Designed for scalability, it integrates seamlessly with financials, CRM, and order management for end-to-end supply chain control.
Pros
- Advanced multi-location inventory with lot/serial tracking and cycle counting
- Automated PO workflows with vendor portals and approval hierarchies
- Deep integration with ERP modules for real-time analytics and forecasting
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex customization
- High implementation costs and long setup time
- Premium pricing not ideal for small businesses
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing scalable, integrated inventory and procurement within a full ERP ecosystem.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at ~$1,000/month base + $99/user/month, with implementation fees often $50K+.
MRPeasy
specializedCloud manufacturing ERP that manages inventory, production planning, and purchase orders for small manufacturers.
MRP-driven production scheduling that automatically generates precise purchase orders from material requirements planning
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software designed primarily for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering robust inventory management and automated purchase order functionalities. It provides real-time stock tracking across multiple warehouses, bill of materials (BOM) handling with infinite nesting, and intelligent PO generation based on production schedules and material needs. The platform integrates these with production planning, CRM, and accounting for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive inventory control with lot/serial traceability and multi-warehouse support
- Automated purchase orders triggered by MRP calculations and production forecasts
- Integrated production scheduling with Gantt charts for efficient material planning
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for full manufacturing features
- Steeper learning curve for non-manufacturers or advanced BOM setups
- Limited standalone inventory tools without broader ERP commitment
Best For
Small to medium manufacturers needing tightly integrated inventory, purchase orders, and production planning.
Pricing
Starts at €49/user/month (Basic), €99/user/month (Production), €149/user/month (Extended); billed annually with minimum 5 users.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools provide strong support for inventory and purchase order management, with Zoho Inventory rising as the top pick due to its seamless automation of purchase orders, sales fulfillment, and multi-warehouse tracking. Fishbowl Inventory stands out for its advanced QuickBooks integration, tailored for manufacturing and order management, while Cin7 excels in real-time stock visibility and multi-channel sales handling. Each tool caters to distinct business needs, yet Zoho leads as the most versatile solution.
Take action to optimize your operations—explore Zoho Inventory to experience its automated workflows and take charge of your inventory management effectively.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison