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Manufacturing Engineering

Top 10 Best Manufacturing Inventory Management Software of 2026

Discover the top 10 best manufacturing inventory management software to streamline operations. Compare features, find the best fit. Explore now.

Rajesh Patel

Rajesh Patel

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Effective inventory management is a cornerstone of manufacturing success, directly impacting production efficiency, cost control, and customer trust—with the right software acting as a strategic enabler. Navigating the diverse options available, from cloud-based MRP tools to modular ERP platforms, requires careful consideration to align with unique operational needs.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: MRPeasy - Cloud-based MRP software that integrates production planning, inventory management, procurement, and CRM for small to medium manufacturers.
  2. 2#2: Katana MRP - Visual manufacturing ERP tool for real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order fulfillment in small businesses.
  3. 3#3: Fishbowl Inventory - Robust inventory management solution with manufacturing orders, bill of materials, and multi-location warehouse control.
  4. 4#4: Odoo - Modular open-source ERP platform featuring inventory management, manufacturing execution, and supply chain automation.
  5. 5#5: ERPNext - Open-source ERP system with built-in manufacturing, inventory tracking, quality control, and production planning modules.
  6. 6#6: NetSuite - Cloud ERP offering advanced inventory management, demand planning, and work order processing for manufacturing enterprises.
  7. 7#7: Epicor Kinetic - Industry-specific ERP with comprehensive inventory control, shop floor management, and supply chain visibility for manufacturers.
  8. 8#8: Plex - Smart manufacturing platform providing real-time inventory tracking, MES, and quality management in a cloud-native environment.
  9. 9#9: DELMIAworks - Integrated ERP and MES software for discrete and process manufacturers handling inventory, production, and quality assurance.
  10. 10#10: Prodsmart - Real-time shop floor management system with inventory control, production monitoring, and performance analytics for manufacturers.

Tools were ranked based on key factors including comprehensive feature sets (integrations, scalability, real-time tracking), user-centric quality (reliability, support, intuitive design), practical ease of use (onboarding, workflow efficiency), and long-term value (ROI, adaptability to growth).

Comparison Table

Effective manufacturing inventory management is vital for optimizing operations and reducing costs; this comparison table examines key tools like MRPeasy, Katana MRP, Fishbowl Inventory, Odoo, ERPNext, and more. It details features, integration strengths, and suitability for various business scales, empowering readers to select the right software for their unique needs.

1MRPeasy logo9.7/10

Cloud-based MRP software that integrates production planning, inventory management, procurement, and CRM for small to medium manufacturers.

Features
9.8/10
Ease
9.4/10
Value
9.5/10
2Katana MRP logo9.1/10

Visual manufacturing ERP tool for real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order fulfillment in small businesses.

Features
9.3/10
Ease
9.5/10
Value
8.7/10

Robust inventory management solution with manufacturing orders, bill of materials, and multi-location warehouse control.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
8.3/10
4Odoo logo8.4/10

Modular open-source ERP platform featuring inventory management, manufacturing execution, and supply chain automation.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
9.0/10
5ERPNext logo8.6/10

Open-source ERP system with built-in manufacturing, inventory tracking, quality control, and production planning modules.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.4/10
Value
9.6/10
6NetSuite logo8.7/10

Cloud ERP offering advanced inventory management, demand planning, and work order processing for manufacturing enterprises.

Features
9.4/10
Ease
7.2/10
Value
7.8/10

Industry-specific ERP with comprehensive inventory control, shop floor management, and supply chain visibility for manufacturers.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
6.8/10
Value
7.4/10
8Plex logo8.7/10

Smart manufacturing platform providing real-time inventory tracking, MES, and quality management in a cloud-native environment.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.5/10
Value
8.0/10

Integrated ERP and MES software for discrete and process manufacturers handling inventory, production, and quality assurance.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
7.3/10
Value
7.9/10
10Prodsmart logo8.4/10

Real-time shop floor management system with inventory control, production monitoring, and performance analytics for manufacturers.

Features
8.6/10
Ease
8.8/10
Value
8.0/10
1
MRPeasy logo

MRPeasy

specialized

Cloud-based MRP software that integrates production planning, inventory management, procurement, and CRM for small to medium manufacturers.

Overall Rating9.7/10
Features
9.8/10
Ease of Use
9.4/10
Value
9.5/10
Standout Feature

Visual Gantt-based production scheduler that dynamically adjusts plans for material shortages, machine capacity, and priorities in real-time

MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP/ERP software designed specifically for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering comprehensive tools for production planning, inventory management, and order fulfillment. It streamlines operations with features like BOM management, real-time shop floor tracking, automated scheduling, and integrated CRM and procurement. Ideal for make-to-order and make-to-stock businesses, it provides end-to-end visibility to reduce waste and improve efficiency.

Pros

  • Advanced production scheduling with Gantt charts and automatic rescheduling based on real-time data
  • Robust inventory control including lot tracking, serial numbers, and multi-warehouse support
  • All-in-one platform integrating CRM, purchasing, and financial reporting for seamless workflows

Cons

  • Higher pricing tiers can become expensive for larger teams
  • Initial setup may require data migration effort for complex BOMs
  • Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise-level ERPs

Best For

Small to medium-sized discrete manufacturers seeking an intuitive, scalable MRP solution for make-to-order production without needing IT expertise.

Pricing

Starts at $49/user/month (billed annually) for Basic plan; scales to $79/user/month for Professional and custom Enterprise pricing.

Visit MRPeasymrpeasy.com
2
Katana MRP logo

Katana MRP

specialized

Visual manufacturing ERP tool for real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order fulfillment in small businesses.

Overall Rating9.1/10
Features
9.3/10
Ease of Use
9.5/10
Value
8.7/10
Standout Feature

Live MRP engine that automatically generates and schedules manufacturing orders based on real-time demand and stock levels

Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturers, offering real-time inventory tracking, production planning, and order management. It automates bill of materials (BOM) processing, shop floor execution, and integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks. The platform emphasizes visual dashboards and kanban-style workflows to simplify complex manufacturing processes.

Pros

  • Intuitive visual interface with kanban boards for production planning
  • Seamless integrations with 100+ apps including Shopify and Xero
  • Real-time inventory visibility across multiple warehouses

Cons

  • Advanced features like multi-level BOMs locked behind higher tiers
  • Reporting and analytics could be more customizable
  • Customer support response times vary for non-enterprise users

Best For

Small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking an easy-to-use MRP system for scaling production without heavy IT involvement.

Pricing

Starts at $99/month (Maker plan for basic inventory), up to $2,499/month (Enterprise); billed annually with a free trial.

Visit Katana MRPkatanamrp.com
3
Fishbowl Inventory logo

Fishbowl Inventory

specialized

Robust inventory management solution with manufacturing orders, bill of materials, and multi-location warehouse control.

Overall Rating8.6/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
8.3/10
Standout Feature

Native, two-way QuickBooks Desktop integration that automatically posts inventory transactions to general ledger without double-entry

Fishbowl Inventory is a robust on-premise inventory management software tailored for small to mid-sized businesses, with specialized tools for manufacturing operations. It enables precise tracking of inventory across multiple warehouses, management of bills of materials (BOMs), work orders, production scheduling, and barcode scanning for efficient fulfillment. The platform excels in automating inventory adjustments and integrates deeply with QuickBooks to streamline accounting without manual data entry.

Pros

  • Seamless, native integration with QuickBooks Desktop for real-time accounting sync
  • Comprehensive manufacturing capabilities including multi-level BOMs, routings, and work order management
  • Strong multi-location inventory tracking with barcode and RFID support

Cons

  • Primarily Windows-based interface feels dated compared to modern cloud competitors
  • Steeper learning curve for advanced manufacturing and customization features
  • Higher upfront costs may deter very small businesses

Best For

Small to medium-sized manufacturers using QuickBooks who need detailed production planning and multi-warehouse inventory control.

Pricing

One-time license starts at $4,395 for standard edition (1-10 users); Warehouse edition at $5,147; annual maintenance ~20%; subscription from $169/month; add-ons for advanced manufacturing extra.

Visit Fishbowl Inventoryfishbowlinventory.com
4
Odoo logo

Odoo

enterprise

Modular open-source ERP platform featuring inventory management, manufacturing execution, and supply chain automation.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
9.0/10
Standout Feature

Fully integrated Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) with dynamic BOMs and real-time production scheduling

Odoo is a modular, open-source ERP platform with comprehensive manufacturing and inventory management capabilities, enabling real-time stock tracking, multi-warehouse operations, and lot/serial number traceability. Its Manufacturing module supports production planning, Bills of Materials (BOMs), work orders, and quality control, integrating seamlessly with procurement and sales. This makes it suitable for streamlining end-to-end manufacturing processes in a unified system.

Pros

  • Highly customizable modular architecture with deep manufacturing features like MRP, PLM, and maintenance integration
  • Real-time inventory visibility across multiple locations with advanced traceability
  • Scalable from small shops to enterprises with strong automation and reporting

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for setup and customization without developer support
  • Performance can lag in very large deployments without proper hosting
  • Enterprise features require paid subscription, limiting free tier depth

Best For

Small to mid-sized manufacturers seeking an affordable, all-in-one ERP for integrated inventory and production management.

Pricing

Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise starts at ~$25/user/month (app-based pricing).

Visit Odooodoo.com
5
ERPNext logo

ERPNext

enterprise

Open-source ERP system with built-in manufacturing, inventory tracking, quality control, and production planning modules.

Overall Rating8.6/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.4/10
Value
9.6/10
Standout Feature

Integrated open-source Manufacturing Execution System (MES) with real-time shop floor tracking and automatic inventory adjustments

ERPNext is a fully open-source ERP platform that excels in manufacturing and inventory management, offering tools like multi-level Bill of Materials (BOM), production planning, work orders, shop floor execution, and perpetual inventory tracking with serial/batch support. It enables real-time stock valuation using methods like FIFO, Moving Average, and LIFO, alongside quality control, subcontracting, and warehouse management. The system integrates manufacturing seamlessly with CRM, accounting, and procurement for end-to-end visibility.

Pros

  • Comprehensive open-source manufacturing modules including BOM, work orders, and quality inspections
  • Real-time inventory tracking with serial/batch management and multiple valuation methods
  • Highly customizable without licensing fees, ideal for tailored workflows

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring technical expertise
  • Functional but dated user interface compared to modern SaaS tools
  • Performance can lag with very large-scale operations without optimization

Best For

Small to medium manufacturing businesses needing a cost-effective, fully customizable ERP with strong inventory and production planning capabilities.

Pricing

Free open-source self-hosted version; Frappe Cloud hosting starts at $10/user/month (Basic) up to $25/user/month (Pro), with enterprise support available.

Visit ERPNexterpnext.com
6
NetSuite logo

NetSuite

enterprise

Cloud ERP offering advanced inventory management, demand planning, and work order processing for manufacturing enterprises.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.4/10
Ease of Use
7.2/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Advanced Production Management with multi-level BOMs, routings, and real-time shop floor execution

NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP platform that provides comprehensive manufacturing inventory management, enabling real-time tracking of raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods across multiple locations. It includes advanced tools like MRP, BOM management, demand planning, lot/serial tracking, and shop floor control to optimize production and supply chain efficiency. The system integrates inventory seamlessly with financials, procurement, and order management for end-to-end visibility.

Pros

  • Highly scalable with robust MRP, production planning, and multi-location inventory support
  • Deep integration across ERP modules for real-time financial and operational insights
  • Advanced analytics and customizable dashboards for manufacturing KPIs

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex setup requiring implementation partners
  • High cost, especially for smaller manufacturers
  • Overkill for simple inventory needs without full ERP adoption

Best For

Mid-to-large manufacturers with complex operations needing integrated ERP and advanced inventory controls.

Pricing

Quote-based subscription starting at ~$1,000/user/month, plus implementation fees ($50K+ typical) and add-ons.

Visit NetSuitenetsuite.com
7
Epicor Kinetic logo

Epicor Kinetic

enterprise

Industry-specific ERP with comprehensive inventory control, shop floor management, and supply chain visibility for manufacturers.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
6.8/10
Value
7.4/10
Standout Feature

Advanced Material Requirements Planning (MRP) with multi-level pegging and finite capacity scheduling for precise inventory control in complex manufacturing.

Epicor Kinetic is a cloud-based ERP platform designed specifically for manufacturing operations, offering robust inventory management capabilities including real-time tracking, demand forecasting, and multi-location support. It integrates seamlessly with production planning, procurement, and quality control to optimize supply chain efficiency. As a comprehensive solution, it supports complex manufacturing environments with lot and serial number traceability, MRP, and advanced analytics for inventory optimization.

Pros

  • Comprehensive inventory tools with MRP, lot/serial tracking, and demand planning tailored for manufacturers
  • Scalable for multi-site operations with real-time visibility and strong integration across ERP modules
  • Advanced customization via low-code tools and AI-driven insights for inventory optimization

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring significant training and consulting
  • High cost structure, especially for smaller manufacturers
  • Interface can feel dated in some areas despite browser-based updates

Best For

Mid-sized to large manufacturers seeking an integrated ERP with deep inventory and production management capabilities.

Pricing

Quote-based subscription pricing, typically starting at $175-$300 per user/month with implementation costs often exceeding $50,000.

8
Plex logo

Plex

enterprise

Smart manufacturing platform providing real-time inventory tracking, MES, and quality management in a cloud-native environment.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.5/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Real-time IIoT-connected inventory visibility with infinite traceability from raw materials to finished products

Plex is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and ERP platform that excels in inventory management for discrete and process manufacturers. It provides real-time visibility into raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods with advanced lot, serial, and container traceability. The system integrates inventory data seamlessly with production scheduling, quality control, supply chain management, and shop floor operations to optimize manufacturing efficiency.

Pros

  • Real-time inventory tracking and traceability across the supply chain
  • Seamless integration with IIoT devices and shop floor equipment for automated data capture
  • Scalable for mid-to-large manufacturers with robust MES/ERP capabilities

Cons

  • High implementation costs and lengthy setup for complex environments
  • Steep learning curve for non-technical users
  • Less ideal for very small manufacturers due to pricing and feature depth

Best For

Mid-sized to large discrete manufacturers seeking an integrated MES with advanced inventory management and real-time production insights.

Pricing

Quote-based subscription starting at around $100,000 annually, scaled by users, production volume, and modules; no public tiered pricing.

Visit Plexplex.com
9
DELMIAworks logo

DELMIAworks

enterprise

Integrated ERP and MES software for discrete and process manufacturers handling inventory, production, and quality assurance.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
7.3/10
Value
7.9/10
Standout Feature

Real-time MES-ERP integration for end-to-end visibility from raw materials to finished goods

DELMIAworks is a robust ERP platform tailored for manufacturing, with advanced inventory management features including real-time tracking, lot/serial traceability, and demand-driven replenishment. It integrates inventory control with production planning, quality management, and supply chain operations to optimize material flow and reduce stockouts. Originally IQMS and now part of Dassault Systèmes, it supports discrete, repetitive, and process manufacturing environments with scalable, industry-specific tools.

Pros

  • Comprehensive real-time inventory visibility and traceability
  • Deep integration with MES for shop floor control
  • Scalable for mid-to-large manufacturers with customizable modules

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex implementation
  • Higher upfront costs and customization fees
  • User interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS tools

Best For

Mid-sized to enterprise-level manufacturers needing an integrated ERP for precise inventory and production management.

Pricing

Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically $15,000+ initial setup, $100-300/user/month for cloud subscriptions, varying by modules and scale.

Visit DELMIAworksdelmiaworks.com
10
Prodsmart logo

Prodsmart

specialized

Real-time shop floor management system with inventory control, production monitoring, and performance analytics for manufacturers.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
8.6/10
Ease of Use
8.8/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Geolocated real-time operator tracking via mobile app for precise shop floor visibility and accountability

Prodsmart is a cloud-based Manufacturing Execution System (MES) that delivers real-time visibility into shop floor operations, with strong capabilities in inventory tracking, production monitoring, and resource management for manufacturers. It supports barcode/RFID scanning, material traceability, and work order execution via mobile apps, enabling paperless operations and OEE optimization. Ideal for streamlining manufacturing workflows, it integrates with ERPs to provide end-to-end control from raw materials to finished goods.

Pros

  • Real-time inventory tracking and material traceability with mobile scanning
  • Intuitive mobile-first interface for shop floor workers
  • Customizable dashboards and OEE reporting for quick insights

Cons

  • Pricing scales quickly for larger operations
  • Limited built-in advanced analytics without add-ons
  • Heavy reliance on stable internet for cloud functionality

Best For

Small to medium-sized manufacturers needing affordable, real-time shop floor and inventory control without complex IT setups.

Pricing

Quote-based; starts around $500/month for basic plans, scaling with users, sites, and modules (Essentials, Advanced, Enterprise tiers).

Visit Prodsmartprodsmart.com

Conclusion

The top tools cater to varied manufacturing needs, with MRPeasy leading as the top choice, offering seamless integration of production planning, inventory management, procurement, and CRM for small to medium operations. Katana MRP stands out for real-time tracking and agile production scheduling, ideal for small businesses, while Fishbowl Inventory excels with robust multi-location control and bill of materials management, making it a strong pick for complex workflows.

MRPeasy logo
Our Top Pick
MRPeasy

Don't miss the chance to enhance efficiency—start with MRPeasy to experience integrated, scalable solutions that streamline your operations and drive growth.