Quick Overview
- 1#1: Fishbowl Inventory - Advanced inventory management software specializing in precise serial number and lot tracking for manufacturing and distribution businesses.
- 2#2: Odoo Inventory - Comprehensive open-source ERP module offering robust serial number tracking, traceability, and warranty management within a full business suite.
- 3#3: Cin7 - Omnichannel inventory platform with advanced serial number tracking, barcode scanning, and multi-location support for e-commerce and retail.
- 4#4: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based inventory system that enables efficient serial number tracking, order fulfillment, and integration with e-commerce platforms.
- 5#5: Unleashed - Cloud inventory software designed for real-time serial number tracking, batch management, and supply chain visibility.
- 6#6: Snipe-IT - Open-source IT asset management tool providing detailed serial number tracking, check-in/out, and custom fields for hardware lifecycle.
- 7#7: Asset Panda - Mobile-first asset tracking platform with serial number management, QR code scanning, and maintenance scheduling features.
- 8#8: EZOfficeInventory - Cloud-based asset management software offering serial number tracking, custom workflows, and audit-ready reporting.
- 9#9: GLPI - Open-source IT service management suite with comprehensive serial number tracking for assets, inventory, and helpdesk integration.
- 10#10: Sortly - Visual inventory app supporting simple serial number tracking, photo attachments, and barcode scanning for small businesses.
We ranked these tools based on robust tracking capabilities, usability, reliability, and overall value, ensuring they meet the diverse demands of businesses ranging from small enterprises to large organizations.
Comparison Table
Serial number tracking software is vital for managing assets, compliance, and customer interactions, with varied tools to meet different operational needs. This comparison table explores top options including Fishbowl Inventory, Odoo Inventory, Cin7, Zoho Inventory, Unleashed, and more, detailing key features, pricing, and usability to help readers identify the best fit. Whether for small businesses or larger enterprises, the table provides actionable insights to evaluate tools effectively.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fishbowl Inventory Advanced inventory management software specializing in precise serial number and lot tracking for manufacturing and distribution businesses. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Odoo Inventory Comprehensive open-source ERP module offering robust serial number tracking, traceability, and warranty management within a full business suite. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 3 | Cin7 Omnichannel inventory platform with advanced serial number tracking, barcode scanning, and multi-location support for e-commerce and retail. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 4 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based inventory system that enables efficient serial number tracking, order fulfillment, and integration with e-commerce platforms. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 5 | Unleashed Cloud inventory software designed for real-time serial number tracking, batch management, and supply chain visibility. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Snipe-IT Open-source IT asset management tool providing detailed serial number tracking, check-in/out, and custom fields for hardware lifecycle. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 7 | Asset Panda Mobile-first asset tracking platform with serial number management, QR code scanning, and maintenance scheduling features. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | EZOfficeInventory Cloud-based asset management software offering serial number tracking, custom workflows, and audit-ready reporting. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | GLPI Open-source IT service management suite with comprehensive serial number tracking for assets, inventory, and helpdesk integration. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 10 | Sortly Visual inventory app supporting simple serial number tracking, photo attachments, and barcode scanning for small businesses. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
Advanced inventory management software specializing in precise serial number and lot tracking for manufacturing and distribution businesses.
Comprehensive open-source ERP module offering robust serial number tracking, traceability, and warranty management within a full business suite.
Omnichannel inventory platform with advanced serial number tracking, barcode scanning, and multi-location support for e-commerce and retail.
Cloud-based inventory system that enables efficient serial number tracking, order fulfillment, and integration with e-commerce platforms.
Cloud inventory software designed for real-time serial number tracking, batch management, and supply chain visibility.
Open-source IT asset management tool providing detailed serial number tracking, check-in/out, and custom fields for hardware lifecycle.
Mobile-first asset tracking platform with serial number management, QR code scanning, and maintenance scheduling features.
Cloud-based asset management software offering serial number tracking, custom workflows, and audit-ready reporting.
Open-source IT service management suite with comprehensive serial number tracking for assets, inventory, and helpdesk integration.
Visual inventory app supporting simple serial number tracking, photo attachments, and barcode scanning for small businesses.
Fishbowl Inventory
enterpriseAdvanced inventory management software specializing in precise serial number and lot tracking for manufacturing and distribution businesses.
End-to-end serialized inventory tracking with automated compliance reporting and BOM-level serial assignment in manufacturing
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust warehouse management and inventory control software renowned for its advanced serial number tracking capabilities, enabling businesses to monitor individual items throughout their lifecycle from receiving to shipping. It supports barcode scanning, RFID integration, and multi-location inventory, ensuring precise traceability and compliance with regulations like FDA or aerospace standards. Designed for scalability, it integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and other ERPs, making it ideal for manufacturers and distributors handling serialized stock.
Pros
- Exceptional serial number tracking with full lifecycle visibility and audit trails
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and barcode/RFID hardware for efficient operations
- Scalable for multi-warehouse environments with manufacturing support
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and customization
- Primarily on-premise deployment, with cloud options requiring additional configuration
- Higher upfront costs may deter very small businesses
Best For
Mid-sized manufacturers, distributors, and warehouses needing precise serial number traceability and ERP integration.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $4,395 for standard edition plus $65/user/month maintenance; subscription plans from $439/month.
Odoo Inventory
enterpriseComprehensive open-source ERP module offering robust serial number tracking, traceability, and warranty management within a full business suite.
Bidirectional traceability reports linking serial numbers from supplier receipts to customer deliveries
Odoo Inventory is a powerful module in the open-source Odoo ERP suite designed for comprehensive warehouse management, with robust serial number tracking for individual item traceability. It enables assigning unique serial numbers to products during receipts, internal moves, and deliveries, ensuring compliance and recall capabilities. Integrated with sales, purchases, manufacturing, and accounting, it provides real-time visibility and automated validation to prevent errors in stock operations.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full ERP suite for end-to-end traceability
- Advanced reporting and analytics on serial numbers
- Mobile barcode scanning for efficient tracking
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for custom configurations
- Some advanced automation features exclusive to Enterprise edition
- Performance can lag in very large-scale deployments without optimization
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses seeking scalable serial tracking within an integrated ERP system.
Pricing
Free Community edition; Enterprise plans start at $24.90/user/month (annual billing) with hosting.
Cin7
enterpriseOmnichannel inventory platform with advanced serial number tracking, barcode scanning, and multi-location support for e-commerce and retail.
Real-time 3-way inventory sync across sales channels, POS, and B2B portals while maintaining serial number accuracy and traceability
Cin7 is a comprehensive cloud-based inventory management platform that includes robust serial number tracking capabilities for businesses dealing with unique item identification. It allows users to assign, track, and manage serial numbers across multiple warehouses, sales channels, and order processes, ensuring real-time visibility and traceability. The software integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms, POS systems, and accounting tools like Xero, making it ideal for multi-channel operations. While not exclusively focused on serial tracking, its features support compliance and accuracy in industries like electronics and retail.
Pros
- Excellent multi-warehouse and multi-channel serial number tracking with real-time sync
- Strong integrations with 700+ apps for seamless workflows
- Detailed reporting and audit trails for compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced serial tracking setup
- Higher pricing may not suit small businesses focused solely on serials
- Limited native mobile app functionality for on-the-go scanning
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce and retail businesses needing serial number tracking integrated with full inventory and order management.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month for Core plan (up to 250 orders/mo), scales to $999+/month for Omni Enterprise with unlimited orders; custom quotes available.
Zoho Inventory
enterpriseCloud-based inventory system that enables efficient serial number tracking, order fulfillment, and integration with e-commerce platforms.
Real-time serial number lifecycle tracking across multiple warehouses with automated inbound/outbound validation and detailed audit reports.
Zoho Inventory is a comprehensive cloud-based inventory management platform that provides robust serial number tracking capabilities, allowing users to assign, scan, and monitor individual item serials from procurement to fulfillment. It supports barcode/QR code scanning via mobile apps, multi-warehouse tracking, and integration with sales/purchase orders for accurate lifecycle management. Detailed reports and compliance features make it suitable for industries requiring precise asset traceability.
Pros
- Seamless serial number scanning and validation with mobile app support
- Strong integrations with Zoho ecosystem and third-party tools like Shopify
- Affordable pricing with a functional free tier for small operations
Cons
- Advanced serial tracking features locked behind higher-tier plans
- Interface can feel overwhelming for serial-only users due to broader inventory focus
- Limited native support for complex custom serial workflows without developer help
Best For
Small to medium businesses already in the Zoho ecosystem needing reliable, integrated serial number tracking for inventory and order management.
Pricing
Free plan for up to 20 orders/month; paid plans start at $29/month (Standard) up to $199/month (Ultimate), billed annually.
Unleashed
enterpriseCloud inventory software designed for real-time serial number tracking, batch management, and supply chain visibility.
Multi-currency and multi-location serial number tracking with automated stock adjustments and recall capabilities
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management software designed for wholesalers, distributors, and manufacturers, with robust serial number tracking capabilities for precise asset traceability. It allows users to assign, scan, and monitor individual serial numbers throughout the supply chain, from procurement to sales and returns, ensuring compliance with regulations like FDA or warranty requirements. The platform supports batch, lot, and serial tracking in multi-location warehouses, integrating with accounting tools like Xero and e-commerce platforms for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive serial, batch, and lot tracking with mobile scanning support
- Real-time visibility across multiple warehouses and integrations with Xero/QuickBooks
- Strong reporting for audits, warranties, and recalls using serial data
Cons
- Serial tracking is part of broader inventory features, not a standalone specialized tool
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, less ideal for very small operations
- Initial setup and customization for serial workflows can require training
Best For
Medium-sized distributors and manufacturers needing integrated inventory management with reliable serial number tracking for compliance and traceability.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on order volume and users; starts around $99/month for small plans, up to $500+/month for enterprise.
Snipe-IT
specializedOpen-source IT asset management tool providing detailed serial number tracking, check-in/out, and custom fields for hardware lifecycle.
Enforced unique serial number validation with full audit trails and check-in/out history per asset
Snipe-IT is a free, open-source IT asset lifecycle management tool that excels in tracking hardware and other assets via serial numbers, including check-in/out, depreciation, and maintenance scheduling. It supports multi-location deployments, user assignments, and custom fields for detailed inventory management. The platform generates reports and audits to ensure serial number accuracy and compliance.
Pros
- Completely free open-source community edition with robust serial number tracking and asset history
- Customizable fields, API integration, and detailed reporting for audits
- Supports bulk imports and multi-site deployments for scalable tracking
Cons
- Self-hosting requires technical setup and server maintenance
- Interface feels dated and has a moderate learning curve
- Advanced features like SSO and priority support locked behind paid enterprise plans
Best For
IT admins in small to mid-sized organizations seeking a cost-free, self-hosted solution for serial number-based asset tracking.
Pricing
Free self-hosted community edition; hosted plans start at $29.99/month for 100 assets, enterprise custom pricing for advanced features.
Asset Panda
specializedMobile-first asset tracking platform with serial number management, QR code scanning, and maintenance scheduling features.
No-code custom relationships linking serial-tracked assets to users, vendors, and maintenance history
Asset Panda is a cloud-based asset management platform designed for tracking physical assets, including detailed serial number management through barcode and QR code scanning. It supports custom fields, workflows, check-in/out processes, and maintenance scheduling to maintain accurate inventory records. The software provides mobile accessibility and reporting tools for audits and compliance, making it suitable for IT, facilities, and equipment-heavy operations.
Pros
- Highly customizable fields and workflows for precise serial number tracking
- Strong mobile app with offline scanning capabilities
- Advanced reporting and audit trails for compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and customization
- Pricing scales quickly for larger inventories
- Occasional reports of slow customer support response
Best For
Mid-sized businesses and IT departments managing distributed assets with serial numbers across multiple locations.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at ~$1,500/year for up to 250 assets; scales per asset/user with tiers like Essentials ($1/user/mo min) and Enterprise.
EZOfficeInventory
specializedCloud-based asset management software offering serial number tracking, custom workflows, and audit-ready reporting.
Automated warranty expiration and maintenance scheduling tied directly to individual serial numbers
EZOfficeInventory is a cloud-based asset management platform designed for tracking office inventory, IT equipment, and tools by serial number, barcode, or QR code. It enables users to manage check-in/check-out processes, schedule maintenance, track warranties, and generate detailed reports on asset locations and usage. The software supports custom fields for precise serial number logging and integrates with mobile apps for on-the-go scanning and updates.
Pros
- Robust serial number tracking with barcode/QR scanning and custom fields
- Comprehensive reporting and audit trails for asset lifecycle management
- Mobile app support for real-time updates and check-ins
Cons
- Pricing scales with asset count or users, which can get expensive for large inventories
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization and reporting features
- Limited integrations compared to enterprise-level competitors
Best For
Medium-sized businesses and IT departments needing detailed serial number tracking for equipment maintenance and inventory audits.
Pricing
Starts at $35/month for Essentials (up to 100 assets); Professional plan at $65/month for unlimited assets and advanced features.
GLPI
specializedOpen-source IT service management suite with comprehensive serial number tracking for assets, inventory, and helpdesk integration.
FusionInventory plugin for automatic network discovery and serial number population from SNMP, agents, or scans
GLPI is an open-source IT Service Management (ITSM) platform with robust inventory management capabilities, allowing detailed tracking of hardware assets including serial numbers, models, locations, and warranty information. It supports manual entry, barcode scanning, and automatic discovery through plugins like FusionInventory to populate and maintain serial number databases. Beyond basic tracking, it integrates asset data with helpdesk ticketing for lifecycle management and reporting.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Comprehensive inventory module for serial number tracking, search, and reporting
- Extensible with plugins for auto-discovery and integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and configuration
- Outdated user interface that can feel clunky
- Requires self-hosting and technical maintenance
Best For
IT teams in small to medium organizations needing integrated asset tracking with serial numbers alongside helpdesk functionality.
Pricing
Free open-source (self-hosted); optional paid plugins, support, and hosting services available.
Sortly
specializedVisual inventory app supporting simple serial number tracking, photo attachments, and barcode scanning for small businesses.
Visual photo catalog that pairs item images directly with serial numbers for effortless identification and search
Sortly is a user-friendly visual inventory management platform designed for tracking physical assets, including support for serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes, and custom fields. It allows users to organize items into folders, locations, and kits, with mobile scanning and photo uploads for easy identification. While effective for basic serial number tracking like warranty management and asset audits, it lacks advanced enterprise features such as automated bulk serial validation or deep API integrations.
Pros
- Intuitive visual interface with photo thumbnails for quick serial number lookups
- Seamless mobile barcode/QR scanning and serial entry
- Affordable entry-level plans with unlimited users
Cons
- Item limits on lower tiers restrict scalability for large inventories
- Limited advanced serial tracking tools like duplicate prevention or bulk imports
- Fewer integrations compared to dedicated asset management software
Best For
Small businesses and teams seeking simple, visual serial number tracking for tools, equipment, or products without enterprise-scale needs.
Pricing
Free for up to 100 items; Basic $29/mo (100 items), Pro $59/mo (500 items), Enterprise custom.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools offer varied strengths, with Fishbowl Inventory leading as the top choice for precise serial number tracking in manufacturing and distribution. Odoo Inventory stands out as a robust open-source ERP option, providing integrated traceability and warranty management, while Cin7 excels for omnichannel retail and e-commerce with advanced tracking and barcode scanning. Each tool caters to specific needs, ensuring a solution for diverse operational focus areas.
Don’t miss out—evaluate Fishbowl Inventory to leverage its advanced serial number tracking capabilities and boost your business efficiency today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
