Quick Overview
- 1#1: Zoho Inventory - Cloud-based inventory management software that automates stock tracking, order fulfillment, and warehouse operations for small businesses.
- 2#2: Fishbowl Inventory - Robust warehouse management system with advanced inventory control, barcode scanning, and QuickBooks integration for small to medium warehouses.
- 3#3: Cin7 - All-in-one inventory and warehouse management platform supporting multi-channel sales, picking, and stock optimization for growing businesses.
- 4#4: Katana MRP - Real-time manufacturing resource planning and warehouse inventory software for small production-focused warehouses.
- 5#5: inFlow Inventory - User-friendly inventory management tool for small warehouses handling purchasing, sales, and order fulfillment with barcode support.
- 6#6: Odoo Inventory - Open-source ERP inventory module providing warehouse management, picking lists, and shipping for small operations.
- 7#7: Unleashed - Cloud inventory software for wholesalers with real-time stock visibility, multi-warehouse support, and order automation.
- 8#8: DEAR Inventory - Comprehensive cloud ERP for inventory control, warehouse picking, and POS integration tailored to small distributors.
- 9#9: Sortly - Visual inventory tracking app with QR codes and folders for simple small warehouse organization and asset management.
- 10#10: Veeqo - E-commerce inventory and shipping management software with warehouse tools for order fulfillment and label printing.
Tools were selected and ranked based on functional depth (e.g., automation, integration, multi-channel support), user-friendliness, reliability, and value, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits for small warehouses of all types
Comparison Table
Finding the ideal small warehouse management software is essential for streamlining operations, and this comparison table examines popular tools like Zoho Inventory, Fishbowl Inventory, Cin7, Katana MRP, inFlow Inventory, and more. Readers will gain insights into key features, pricing models, and suitability to identify the best fit for their specific business needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zoho Inventory Cloud-based inventory management software that automates stock tracking, order fulfillment, and warehouse operations for small businesses. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | Fishbowl Inventory Robust warehouse management system with advanced inventory control, barcode scanning, and QuickBooks integration for small to medium warehouses. | enterprise | 8.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Cin7 All-in-one inventory and warehouse management platform supporting multi-channel sales, picking, and stock optimization for growing businesses. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 4 | Katana MRP Real-time manufacturing resource planning and warehouse inventory software for small production-focused warehouses. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | inFlow Inventory User-friendly inventory management tool for small warehouses handling purchasing, sales, and order fulfillment with barcode support. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Odoo Inventory Open-source ERP inventory module providing warehouse management, picking lists, and shipping for small operations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | Unleashed Cloud inventory software for wholesalers with real-time stock visibility, multi-warehouse support, and order automation. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | DEAR Inventory Comprehensive cloud ERP for inventory control, warehouse picking, and POS integration tailored to small distributors. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Sortly Visual inventory tracking app with QR codes and folders for simple small warehouse organization and asset management. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | Veeqo E-commerce inventory and shipping management software with warehouse tools for order fulfillment and label printing. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
Cloud-based inventory management software that automates stock tracking, order fulfillment, and warehouse operations for small businesses.
Robust warehouse management system with advanced inventory control, barcode scanning, and QuickBooks integration for small to medium warehouses.
All-in-one inventory and warehouse management platform supporting multi-channel sales, picking, and stock optimization for growing businesses.
Real-time manufacturing resource planning and warehouse inventory software for small production-focused warehouses.
User-friendly inventory management tool for small warehouses handling purchasing, sales, and order fulfillment with barcode support.
Open-source ERP inventory module providing warehouse management, picking lists, and shipping for small operations.
Cloud inventory software for wholesalers with real-time stock visibility, multi-warehouse support, and order automation.
Comprehensive cloud ERP for inventory control, warehouse picking, and POS integration tailored to small distributors.
Visual inventory tracking app with QR codes and folders for simple small warehouse organization and asset management.
E-commerce inventory and shipping management software with warehouse tools for order fulfillment and label printing.
Zoho Inventory
specializedCloud-based inventory management software that automates stock tracking, order fulfillment, and warehouse operations for small businesses.
Intelligent multi-warehouse optimization with automated stock transfers and smart reorder alerts
Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based warehouse management solution tailored for small businesses, offering comprehensive tools for inventory tracking, order fulfillment, and multi-warehouse operations. It supports real-time stock visibility, barcode scanning, serial and batch number tracking, and seamless integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and shipping carriers such as UPS and FedEx. The software automates reordering, generates insightful reports, and scales effortlessly as your warehouse grows, making it a top choice for efficient small-scale warehouse management.
Pros
- Robust multi-warehouse support with real-time inventory syncing across locations
- Extensive integrations with 50+ e-commerce, accounting, and shipping apps
- Mobile app for barcode scanning and on-the-go warehouse management
Cons
- Advanced reporting requires higher-tier plans
- Steeper learning curve for complex custom workflows
- Free plan has order and user limitations
Best For
Small warehouses and SMBs seeking an affordable, scalable solution with strong multi-channel order fulfillment and Zoho ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Free plan for basics (1 warehouse, 20 online orders/mo); paid plans from $29/mo (Standard, annual billing) to $199/mo (Ultimate) per organization.
Fishbowl Inventory
enterpriseRobust warehouse management system with advanced inventory control, barcode scanning, and QuickBooks integration for small to medium warehouses.
Real-time, two-way synchronization with QuickBooks for automatic inventory and financial updates.
Fishbowl Inventory is a powerful warehouse management software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering comprehensive inventory control, order fulfillment, and manufacturing tools. It excels in multi-location tracking, barcode scanning, lot and serial number management, and seamless integrations with accounting systems like QuickBooks. The platform streamlines warehouse operations from receiving to shipping, making it suitable for growing warehouses needing detailed stock visibility.
Pros
- Deep QuickBooks integration for real-time inventory sync
- Robust multi-location and lot/serial tracking
- Strong support for manufacturing and order fulfillment
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup
- Higher upfront costs for smaller operations
- User interface feels somewhat dated
Best For
Small warehouses using QuickBooks that require advanced inventory and multi-location management without changing their accounting system.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $4,395 for Fishbowl Warehouse (single user), plus ~20% annual maintenance; subscription tiers from $439/month.
Cin7
enterpriseAll-in-one inventory and warehouse management platform supporting multi-channel sales, picking, and stock optimization for growing businesses.
Real-time multi-location inventory synchronization across unlimited channels
Cin7 is a cloud-based inventory and warehouse management platform designed for small to medium businesses handling multi-channel sales. It offers real-time stock tracking across multiple locations, automated picking, packing, and shipping workflows, plus deep integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and POS systems. This makes it a powerful solution for small warehouses aiming to centralize operations and reduce manual errors in fulfillment.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 700+ apps for seamless multi-channel sync
- Robust warehouse tools like batch picking and stocktake automation
- Advanced reporting and analytics for inventory insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth
- Higher pricing may strain very small operations
- Initial setup requires significant configuration time
Best For
Small warehouses managing omnichannel sales with multiple inventory locations needing real-time synchronization and fulfillment automation.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month (Core plan, billed annually), $599/month (Pro), with custom Enterprise pricing.
Katana MRP
specializedReal-time manufacturing resource planning and warehouse inventory software for small production-focused warehouses.
Live MRP engine that automatically generates production and purchase orders from sales demand in real-time
Katana MRP is a cloud-based manufacturing resource planning (MRP) software that excels in real-time inventory tracking, production scheduling, and order management for small businesses. It provides multi-warehouse visibility, automates procurement and manufacturing workflows, and integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks. While strong for inventory control in manufacturing contexts, it serves as a capable warehouse management solution for small operations needing production oversight alongside stock handling.
Pros
- Real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations with low-stock alerts
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and sales platforms
- Visual production scheduler for efficient manufacturing planning
Cons
- Lacks advanced WMS tools like optimized picking routes or labor management
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, less ideal for pure warehousing
- Limited customization for non-manufacturing warehouse workflows
Best For
Small manufacturers managing inventory across warehouses who need integrated production planning and real-time stock visibility.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Maker plan for up to 100 orders/month), $299/month (Producer), $799+/month (Business); billed annually with custom enterprise options.
inFlow Inventory
specializedUser-friendly inventory management tool for small warehouses handling purchasing, sales, and order fulfillment with barcode support.
Lightning-fast barcode scanning via the mobile app, enabling quick cycle counts and receiving even in busy warehouses.
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management solution tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, particularly those with warehouses needing efficient stock tracking. It provides tools for multi-location inventory control, purchase and sales order management, barcode scanning, and customizable reporting. The software integrates seamlessly with platforms like QuickBooks, Shopify, and WooCommerce, making it suitable for order fulfillment in small warehouse environments.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with minimal learning curve
- Powerful mobile app for real-time barcode scanning and counts
- Strong integrations with e-commerce and accounting tools
Cons
- Limited advanced WMS features like wave picking or labor tracking
- Reporting lacks deep customization without add-ons
- Pricing scales per user, which can increase costs for teams
Best For
Small warehouse managers seeking straightforward, mobile-friendly inventory control for order fulfillment without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $89/month (billed annually) for Premium plan (1 user, basic features); scales to $439/month for Enterprise (unlimited users, advanced tools).
Odoo Inventory
enterpriseOpen-source ERP inventory module providing warehouse management, picking lists, and shipping for small operations.
Deep integration across the entire Odoo app suite for unified inventory, sales, and procurement management
Odoo Inventory is a robust module within the open-source Odoo ERP suite designed for managing warehouse operations, including real-time stock tracking, automated picking/packing/shipping workflows, and multi-location inventory control. It supports barcode scanning, lot/serial number tracking, inventory forecasting, and seamless integration with sales, purchases, and manufacturing apps. This makes it suitable for small warehouses needing scalable, all-in-one business management without multiple disjointed tools.
Pros
- Comprehensive features like real-time tracking, barcode support, and multi-warehouse management
- Seamless integration with Odoo's full ERP ecosystem for end-to-end operations
- Free community edition with high customizability for small businesses
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive configuration options
- Advanced features and support require paid Enterprise edition
- Can feel overwhelming or overkill for very basic small warehouse needs
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses seeking an integrated, scalable ERP solution with strong inventory capabilities.
Pricing
Free open-source Community edition; Enterprise starts at $24.90/user/month (billed annually) with full features and support.
Unleashed
specializedCloud inventory software for wholesalers with real-time stock visibility, multi-warehouse support, and order automation.
Live multi-warehouse stock synchronization with automatic low-stock alerts
Unleashed is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for small to medium businesses in wholesale, distribution, and light manufacturing sectors. It offers real-time inventory tracking across multiple warehouse locations, automates purchase orders, sales fulfillment, and batch/serial number management. The software integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Amazon, as well as accounting tools such as Xero and QuickBooks, making it suitable for small warehouses handling stock control and order processing.
Pros
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility and tracking
- Seamless integrations with e-commerce and accounting software
- Strong support for batch, serial, and expiry date management
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, less ideal for micro-businesses
- Lacks advanced WMS features like RFID or full automation workflows
- Initial setup and customization can have a moderate learning curve
Best For
Small warehouses in wholesale or distribution needing real-time stock control and multi-channel order integration without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$85 USD/month for up to 120 orders (billed annually), scaling to $500+ for higher volumes.
DEAR Inventory
enterpriseComprehensive cloud ERP for inventory control, warehouse picking, and POS integration tailored to small distributors.
Configurable smart picking lists with wave processing and mobile app support for efficient warehouse fulfillment
DEAR Inventory (now part of Cin7) is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for small to medium businesses, providing real-time stock tracking, multi-location warehouse support, and automated workflows for purchasing, sales, and fulfillment. It excels in handling picking, packing, lot/serial tracking, and light manufacturing within warehouses. The software integrates deeply with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like QuickBooks or Xero, streamlining operations for growing SMBs.
Pros
- Robust multi-warehouse inventory tracking with bin locations and real-time visibility
- Advanced picking/packing workflows with mobile barcode scanning
- Seamless integrations with 100+ apps including e-commerce and accounting systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth and customization options
- Pricing can be expensive for very small warehouses with minimal users
- Occasional reports of slow performance during peak usage
Best For
Small warehouses of growing e-commerce or retail businesses needing integrated inventory control across sales channels.
Pricing
Tiered subscription starting at $299 USD/month (Growth plan, annual billing) for up to 3 users, scaling to $625+/month for larger teams; includes free trial.
Sortly
specializedVisual inventory tracking app with QR codes and folders for simple small warehouse organization and asset management.
Visual item catalog with attached photos for instant recognition and organization
Sortly is a user-friendly visual inventory management software designed for tracking assets and stock with photos, barcodes, and QR codes. It allows users to organize items into hierarchical folders representing warehouse locations like shelves or bins, with features for custom fields, low-stock alerts, and basic reporting. Ideal for small-scale operations, it supports mobile scanning and multi-user access but lacks advanced warehouse functionalities like wave picking or full ERP integration.
Pros
- Intuitive visual interface with item photos for quick identification
- Easy barcode/QR scanning via mobile app
- Affordable plans scalable for small teams
Cons
- Lacks advanced WMS tools like lot/serial tracking or automated replenishment
- Limited reporting and analytics depth
- No native supplier or purchase order management
Best For
Small warehouses or retail businesses needing simple, visual inventory tracking without complex automation.
Pricing
Free plan (100 items); Simple ($29/mo, 500 items); Advanced ($59/mo, unlimited items); Enterprise (custom).
Veeqo
specializedE-commerce inventory and shipping management software with warehouse tools for order fulfillment and label printing.
Discounted multi-carrier shipping rates integrated directly into the picking workflow
Veeqo is a cloud-based inventory management and shipping platform tailored for e-commerce businesses with small warehouses. It enables real-time stock tracking across multiple sales channels, streamlines picking, packing, and shipping workflows, and generates discounted labels for major carriers. While strong in order fulfillment, it provides essential warehouse tools like purchase order management and basic reporting without advanced automation.
Pros
- Completely free core inventory and shipping tools
- Seamless multi-channel integrations (e.g., Amazon, Shopify)
- Intuitive picking lists and label generation
Cons
- Limited advanced WMS features like lot/serial tracking or cycle counting
- Reporting lacks deep customization
- Less suited for non-e-commerce warehouses
Best For
Small e-commerce businesses handling moderate order volumes that prioritize cost-free inventory sync and shipping over complex warehouse automation.
Pricing
Free for all core features including unlimited users, orders, and shipping labels; optional paid add-ons for premium support.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed tools, Zoho Inventory emerges as the top choice, offering seamless automation and efficient warehouse operations for small businesses. Fishbowl Inventory provides robust control and integration for slightly more complex setups, while Cin7 stands out as an all-in-one platform for growing operations. Together, these solutions address diverse warehouse needs, ensuring optimal performance.
Dive into efficiency—try Zoho Inventory now to transform your warehouse management experience.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison