Quick Overview
- 1#1: Katana MRP - Cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software that provides real-time visibility into production, inventory, and supply chain for small manufacturers.
- 2#2: MRPeasy - Affordable cloud MRP system designed for small manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory tracking, and procurement efficiently.
- 3#3: Fishbowl Inventory - Robust inventory and warehouse management software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for small business supply chain operations.
- 4#4: Cin7 - Integrated platform for inventory management, order fulfillment, and multichannel sales to streamline supply chain for growing SMBs.
- 5#5: DEAR - Cloud inventory and supply chain management software with built-in purchasing, manufacturing, and POS for small to medium businesses.
- 6#6: Zoho Inventory - Scalable inventory tracking and order management tool integrated with Zoho suite for small business supply chain needs.
- 7#7: Odoo - Open-source ERP platform offering modular supply chain, inventory, and manufacturing apps tailored for small businesses.
- 8#8: Unleashed - Real-time cloud inventory software focused on multi-location stock control and supply chain automation for wholesalers.
- 9#9: Ordoro - Ecommerce-focused inventory and fulfillment software that automates supply chain processes for small online retailers.
- 10#10: inFlow Inventory - User-friendly inventory management software with purchasing and sales order features for small business supply chains.
We ranked these tools based on their ability to deliver comprehensive features, user-friendly design, reliable performance, and strong value, ensuring they cater to diverse small business needs like inventory tracking, order fulfillment, and cross-channel sales.
Comparison Table
Small businesses depend on effective supply chain management software to optimize operations, and this comparison table explores top tools like Katana MRP, MRPeasy, Fishbowl Inventory, Cin7, and DEAR, enabling readers to understand how each fits their unique workflow needs. By examining features, scalability, and usability, the table helps small business owners identify software that aligns with their growth goals and operational budget.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Katana MRP Cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software that provides real-time visibility into production, inventory, and supply chain for small manufacturers. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | MRPeasy Affordable cloud MRP system designed for small manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory tracking, and procurement efficiently. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Fishbowl Inventory Robust inventory and warehouse management software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for small business supply chain operations. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Cin7 Integrated platform for inventory management, order fulfillment, and multichannel sales to streamline supply chain for growing SMBs. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | DEAR Cloud inventory and supply chain management software with built-in purchasing, manufacturing, and POS for small to medium businesses. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Zoho Inventory Scalable inventory tracking and order management tool integrated with Zoho suite for small business supply chain needs. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 7 | Odoo Open-source ERP platform offering modular supply chain, inventory, and manufacturing apps tailored for small businesses. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 8 | Unleashed Real-time cloud inventory software focused on multi-location stock control and supply chain automation for wholesalers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Ordoro Ecommerce-focused inventory and fulfillment software that automates supply chain processes for small online retailers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | inFlow Inventory User-friendly inventory management software with purchasing and sales order features for small business supply chains. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
Cloud-based manufacturing resource planning software that provides real-time visibility into production, inventory, and supply chain for small manufacturers.
Affordable cloud MRP system designed for small manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory tracking, and procurement efficiently.
Robust inventory and warehouse management software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for small business supply chain operations.
Integrated platform for inventory management, order fulfillment, and multichannel sales to streamline supply chain for growing SMBs.
Cloud inventory and supply chain management software with built-in purchasing, manufacturing, and POS for small to medium businesses.
Scalable inventory tracking and order management tool integrated with Zoho suite for small business supply chain needs.
Open-source ERP platform offering modular supply chain, inventory, and manufacturing apps tailored for small businesses.
Real-time cloud inventory software focused on multi-location stock control and supply chain automation for wholesalers.
Ecommerce-focused inventory and fulfillment software that automates supply chain processes for small online retailers.
User-friendly inventory management software with purchasing and sales order features for small business supply chains.
Katana MRP
specializedCloud-based manufacturing resource planning software that provides real-time visibility into production, inventory, and supply chain for small manufacturers.
Live MRP engine that automatically calculates material needs and production schedules based on real-time sales and inventory data
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and supply chain automation. It streamlines the entire process from purchasing raw materials and managing bills of materials (BOMs) to fulfilling sales orders and shop floor execution. With seamless integrations to e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks, it provides end-to-end visibility and control over manufacturing operations.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location inventory tracking with automated reorder points
- Visual drag-and-drop production scheduling for efficient planning
- Robust integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and sales platforms
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small or solo operations
- Reporting and analytics lack deep customization options
- Mobile app is functional but lacks full desktop feature parity
Best For
Small to medium-sized make-to-order or make-to-stock manufacturers seeking intuitive supply chain and production management.
Pricing
Plans start at $99/month (Essentials) up to $799/month (Business), billed annually with discounts; 14-day free trial available.
MRPeasy
specializedAffordable cloud MRP system designed for small manufacturers to handle production planning, inventory tracking, and procurement efficiently.
Drag-and-drop Gantt chart for dynamic, visual production scheduling that automatically adjusts to changes in demand or capacity.
MRPeasy is a cloud-based MRP (Material Requirements Planning) software designed specifically for small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses. It provides end-to-end supply chain management, including production planning, inventory tracking, procurement, BOM management, and shop floor control. The platform offers real-time visibility into operations, helping users forecast demand, schedule production efficiently, and integrate with accounting tools for seamless financial management.
Pros
- Comprehensive MRP tools tailored for discrete and process manufacturing
- Real-time production scheduling with intuitive Gantt charts
- Strong inventory and lot traceability features reducing waste
Cons
- Higher pricing may strain very small operations
- Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise ERP
- Customization options are somewhat restricted
Best For
Small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking an all-in-one MRP solution for make-to-order or make-to-stock production.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month (Basic, billed annually) for up to 10 users, with Gold ($99/user/month) and custom Enterprise plans available.
Fishbowl Inventory
enterpriseRobust inventory and warehouse management software that integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for small business supply chain operations.
Bi-directional QuickBooks Desktop integration for automatic inventory and financial data synchronization
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering real-time tracking, multi-location support, and advanced features for warehousing, manufacturing, and order fulfillment. It excels in barcode scanning, cycle counting, and bill of materials management, making it ideal for distributors and light manufacturers. The software's standout strength is its seamless, two-way integration with QuickBooks Desktop, automating inventory updates and financial syncing without manual data entry.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time accounting sync
- Powerful manufacturing and multi-location inventory tools
- Strong support for barcode scanning and mobile warehouse operations
Cons
- Windows desktop-only (no native cloud or Mac support)
- Steeper learning curve for non-accounting users
- Higher upfront costs compared to subscription-based competitors
Best For
QuickBooks-using small to mid-sized distributors and manufacturers needing advanced inventory and light manufacturing capabilities.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $4,395 for single-user (Fishbowl Warehouse), plus $1,395 per additional user; annual maintenance ~20% of license fee.
Cin7
enterpriseIntegrated platform for inventory management, order fulfillment, and multichannel sales to streamline supply chain for growing SMBs.
UniWeb: a unified dashboard providing real-time visibility and control over inventory across all sales channels, warehouses, and suppliers in one place.
Cin7 is a comprehensive cloud-based supply chain management platform designed for small to medium businesses handling complex inventory across multiple sales channels, warehouses, and suppliers. It provides end-to-end visibility and automation for inventory control, order management, procurement, and fulfillment, integrating seamlessly with e-commerce platforms, POS systems, and accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero. This makes it particularly effective for omnichannel retailers and distributors looking to streamline operations without silos.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ apps for e-commerce, accounting, and POS
- Real-time inventory tracking across unlimited channels and locations
- Powerful automation for orders, procurement, and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth
- Higher pricing may strain tiniest businesses
- Customer support can be inconsistent
Best For
Growing small businesses managing multi-channel sales, multiple warehouses, and complex supply chains.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month for Core plan (billed annually, based on order volume); higher tiers like Pro ($599+) and Enterprise (custom).
DEAR
enterpriseCloud inventory and supply chain management software with built-in purchasing, manufacturing, and POS for small to medium businesses.
Real-time multi-channel inventory syncing with automated reorder points
DEAR (dear.com) is a cloud-based inventory and supply chain management software designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering tools for procurement, multi-location inventory tracking, sales order fulfillment, and light manufacturing. It automates purchase orders, stock replenishment, and picking/packing processes while integrating seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks or Xero. This enables efficient supply chain visibility and control without heavy IT involvement.
Pros
- Robust multi-location inventory and batch/serial tracking
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
- Automated purchasing and light manufacturing capabilities
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly for higher volumes
- Reporting lacks depth for complex analytics
- Some users report occasional sync delays with integrations
Best For
Small retailers, wholesalers, and manufacturers needing integrated inventory management across sales channels.
Pricing
Starts at $199/month (Standard, billed annually) up to $599/month (Enterprise), based on order volume.
Zoho Inventory
enterpriseScalable inventory tracking and order management tool integrated with Zoho suite for small business supply chain needs.
Seamless, real-time synchronization across Zoho apps and 50+ external platforms for unified supply chain visibility
Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based solution tailored for small businesses to manage inventory, orders, and supply chain processes efficiently. It provides tools for multi-warehouse tracking, purchase order automation, serial/batch number management, and seamless integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and shipping carriers. As part of the Zoho ecosystem, it syncs effortlessly with Zoho Books, CRM, and other apps to streamline end-to-end operations from procurement to fulfillment.
Pros
- Comprehensive integrations with Zoho suite and third-party e-commerce/shipping tools
- Multi-warehouse and multi-channel inventory syncing for real-time accuracy
- Affordable plans including a free tier for very small operations
Cons
- Limited advanced supply chain analytics like AI-driven forecasting
- Customization requires Zoho Creator or developer support
- Reporting dashboards lack depth compared to enterprise SCM tools
Best For
Small businesses needing affordable, integrated inventory and order management that scales with Zoho's ecosystem.
Pricing
Free for up to 20 online orders/month; paid plans from $29/user/month (Standard) to $149/user/month (Elite), billed annually.
Odoo
enterpriseOpen-source ERP platform offering modular supply chain, inventory, and manufacturing apps tailored for small businesses.
Advanced warehouse automation with push/pull rules, routes, and seamless integration across procurement, inventory, and manufacturing modules
Odoo is a modular, open-source ERP platform offering comprehensive supply chain management tools tailored for small businesses, including inventory tracking, procurement, manufacturing, and warehouse operations. It enables real-time stock visibility, automated purchasing, order fulfillment, and multi-warehouse management with features like barcode scanning and lot/serial traceability. Businesses can integrate SCM seamlessly with sales, CRM, and accounting modules for end-to-end efficiency.
Pros
- Highly modular with extensive SCM apps for inventory, purchasing, and manufacturing
- Cost-effective with a free community edition and scalable enterprise options
- Real-time tracking and automation features like replenishment rules and multi-warehouse support
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and customization
- Community version lacks some advanced enterprise features
- Performance can lag with very large inventories without proper hosting
Best For
Small businesses seeking an affordable, all-in-one ERP with robust supply chain tools that grow with their operations.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually) plus per-app fees, with Odoo Online hosting options.
Unleashed
specializedReal-time cloud inventory software focused on multi-location stock control and supply chain automation for wholesalers.
Advanced multi-location inventory syncing with automated replenishment across global warehouses
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management software designed for small to medium-sized businesses handling complex supply chains. It provides real-time tracking of stock across multiple warehouses, automates purchasing and sales orders, and supports batch/serial number tracking for compliance. The platform integrates deeply with accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks, as well as e-commerce platforms like Shopify, enabling efficient order fulfillment and demand forecasting.
Pros
- Real-time multi-warehouse inventory visibility and control
- Robust integrations with accounting, POS, and e-commerce platforms
- Batch, serial, and expiry tracking for regulated industries
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, less ideal for very low-volume businesses
- Limited native manufacturing and production planning features
- Occasional reports of integration sync delays
Best For
Small to medium wholesalers, distributors, and retailers managing multi-location inventory with international sales.
Pricing
Starts at $85 AUD/month (Lite: up to 200 orders); tiers up to $599 AUD/month (Enterprise: 10,000+ orders), billed annually with monthly options at 20% premium.
Ordoro
specializedEcommerce-focused inventory and fulfillment software that automates supply chain processes for small online retailers.
BuyLists for intelligent, automated purchase order creation and vendor management based on sales velocity and stock levels
Ordoro is a cloud-based supply chain management platform tailored for small to medium-sized e-commerce businesses, offering end-to-end inventory, order, and warehouse management. It integrates with major marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Shopify, providing real-time inventory syncing, automated purchasing from vendors, and optimized multi-carrier shipping. The software also includes tools for purchase order management, reporting, and scalability across multiple warehouses.
Pros
- Seamless multi-channel inventory synchronization and real-time tracking
- Automated vendor purchasing and replenishment via BuyLists
- Strong shipping integrations with major carriers and label printing
Cons
- Initial setup and customization can have a learning curve
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume
- Customer support primarily email-based with limited phone options
Best For
Small e-commerce businesses selling across multiple online marketplaces that need integrated inventory and order fulfillment automation.
Pricing
Starts at $59/month (Launch plan, up to 100 orders/mo), $199/month (Growth), $499/month (Scale), and $649+/month (Unlimited); annual discounts available.
inFlow Inventory
specializedUser-friendly inventory management software with purchasing and sales order features for small business supply chains.
Hybrid offline/online mode with automatic cloud sync for uninterrupted inventory management in low-connectivity environments
inFlow Inventory is a user-friendly inventory management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses handling retail, wholesale, or light manufacturing operations. It provides real-time stock tracking, purchase and sales order management, barcode scanning via mobile apps, and multi-location support. The platform integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and e-commerce tools like Shopify, offering both cloud-based and on-premise deployment options for flexible supply chain control.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile barcode scanning and offline capabilities for on-the-go inventory management
- Strong multi-location inventory tracking and customizable reporting
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Shopify, and other SMB tools
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and forecasting compared to enterprise solutions
- Per-user pricing can become costly as teams grow
- Customization options are somewhat basic for complex workflows
Best For
Small retailers, wholesalers, or distributors needing straightforward, reliable inventory control without full-scale ERP complexity.
Pricing
Cloud plans start at $89/month (1 user, basic features) up to $439/month (unlimited users, advanced tools); on-premise perpetual license from $999 one-time plus annual maintenance.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools collectively elevate small business supply chain operations, with Katana MRP emerging as the top choice for its real-time visibility into production, inventory, and supply chain. MRPeasy and Fishbowl Inventory follow, offering affordability and QuickBooks integration respectively, each tailored to distinct business needs.
Explore Katana MRP to streamline your supply chain—whether scaling production or managing complex workflows, it delivers the tools to enhance efficiency and control. Don’t miss MRPeasy and Fishbowl Inventory either, as they provide strong alternatives for specific requirements.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.