ZarMoney Online Accounting Blog

Beyond Spreadsheets: 8 Powerful Retail Inventory Management Software

Written by ZarMoney | May 27, 2024

If you're still using spreadsheets to manage your store's inventory, you might be missing out on some great tools that can make your life easier. 

In this blog post, we'll introduce you to 8 powerful software options that can handle your inventory needs better than spreadsheets. 

These tools can save you time, reduce errors, and help you keep track of your stock more efficiently. 

Let's find out how these software solutions can transform the way you manage your inventory.

List of 8 Powerful Retail Inventory Management Software

  1. ZarMoney
  2. QuickBooks
  3. Lightspeed
  4. Zoho Books
  5. Ordoro
  6. inFlow Inventory
  7. Sage X3
  8. Cin7 Core

1. ZarMoney

ZarMoney is a cloud-based inventory management software designed to help businesses optimize their inventory processes. It provides a full suite of tools to manage everything from warehouse operations to inventory control, all in one place. 

Whether you're looking to improve efficiency or expand your business, ZarMoney offers flexible solutions for retail inventory management.

Features of ZarMoney

Top 3 Features of ZarMoney

1. Real-Time Warehouse Management

ZarMoney's real-time warehouse management feature allows you to view and manage all your warehouses' locations by location. This helps in analyzing product status and history efficiently.

2. Smart Inventory Management

This feature offers global access to your inventory data, allowing you to manage inventory counts, sales, and stock updates from anywhere, just with an internet connection.

3. Optimized Departments and Information

ZarMoney enhances coordination among different departments by providing real-time product information, which aids in vendor evaluation, demand prediction, and tracking supply status.

Pros of ZarMoney

  • Integrates multiple inventory management functions into a single platform.
  • Offers real-time data access from anywhere.
  • Improves operational efficiency through detailed analytics and reporting.

Cons of ZarMoney

  • Can be overwhelming for beginners due to its extensive features.

Pricing of ZarMoney

ZarMoney has two pricing plans

  • 15 Days Free Trial
  • Small Business $20 / month / 2 users
  • Enterprise $350 / month / 30+ users

Customer Support of ZarMoney

  • Knowledge Base
  • FAQs/Forum
  • Phone Support
  • Email/Help Desk
  • Chat
  • 24/7 (Live rep)

Supported Platforms of ZarMoney

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
  • iOS mobile app
  • Android mobile app

Reviews

Rating

ZarMoney has been given a rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Software advice.

Final Verdict onZarMoney

ZarMoney is a great choice for retail inventory management because it combines extensive features with flexibility, making it suitable for businesses looking to scale up their inventory processes. With its set of tools, ZarMoney helps make informed decisions and manage operations more effectively.

2. QuickBooks 

QuickBooks is a well-known tool that helps small and medium-sized businesses manage their inventory easily. It’s especially good for keeping track of stock, understanding what needs to be ordered, and making sure you never run out of what you need to keep your business moving.

Features of QuickBooks

  • Inventory tracking
  • Stock value tracking in real-time
  • Purchase order management
  • Product images, categories, and pricing organization
  • Cost calculation using FIFO (first-in, first-out)
  • Sales and tax reports
  • Tracking different types of inventory items

Top 3 Features of QuickBooks

1. Inventory Tracking

QuickBooks automatically updates your stock levels as sales are made and purchases are received, helping you keep a clear view of what's in stock and what’s selling.

2. Stock Value Tracking

The software updates your financial records as stock values change, giving you a real-time look at your business's financial health.

3. Purchase Order Management

QuickBooks helps you track orders from suppliers and alerts you when it’s time to reorder, ensuring you always have the right amount of inventory.

Pros of QuickBooks

  • Simple and intuitive interface, easy to use.
  • Real-time updates help with accurate stock and financial management.
  • Extensive tracking and reporting features enhance decision-making.

Cons of QuickBooks

  • Might be more than needed for very small businesses or those without inventory.

Pricing of QuickBooks

  • Simple Start: $18/month
  • Essentials: $27/month
  • Plus: $38/month
  • Advanced: $76/month

Customer Support of QuickBooks

  • 24/7 phone support
  • Live chat
  • Community forums
  • Online knowledge base

Supported Platforms of QuickBooks

  • Desktop (Windows and macOS)
  • Mobile (iOS and Android)
  • Web-based access

Reviews

Rating

QuickBooks Online has been given a rating of 4.3 out of 5 on Software advice.

Final Verdict on QuickBooks

QuickBooks is a great choice for businesses that need reliable, easy-to-use inventory management. With its wide range of features and real-time tracking capabilities, it not only simplifies inventory management but also integrates with other financial aspects of your business, making it an invaluable tool for growth and efficiency.

3. Lightspeed

Lightspeed is a powerful retail management system that's perfect for businesses looking to optimize their operations. It's designed to help manage sales, inventory, and customer relationships all in one platform, making it easier for store owners to keep up with every part of their business.

Features of Lightspeed

  • Real-time inventory tracking
  • Integrated point of sale (POS)
  • Customer management
  • Sales reporting and analytics
  • Multi-store capability
  • Order management
  • eCommerce integration
  • Loyalty program management
  • Customizable product details

Top 3 Features of Lightspeed

1. Real-Time Inventory Tracking

Lightspeed provides immediate updates on your stock levels, allowing you to see what’s available, what’s low, and what needs to be reordered at any moment.

2. Integrated Point of Sale (POS)

You can combine sales, inventory management, and customer profiles in one system, which simplifies transactions and keeps your store running smoothly.

3. Customer Management

This feature helps you track customer preferences, purchase history, and contact information, making it easier to enhance customer service and target marketing efforts.

Pros of Lightspeed

  • Real-time tracking helps maintain accurate stock levels.
  • Multistore management from a single account.
  • Strong eCommerce integration for online sales.

Cons of Lightspeed

  • May be more expensive than some competitors.
  • Can be complex to set up and learn initially.
  • Some features require higher-tier plans.
  • Limited customization options for smaller retailers.

Pricing of Lightspeed

  • Basic: $89/month
  • Core: $149/month
  • Plus: $239/month

Customer Support of Lightspeed

  • 24/7 customer support via phone and email
  • Online chat support
  • Help center with articles and tutorials
  • Community forum for user discussions

Supported Platforms of Lightspeed

  • iOS app for mobile sales
  • Desktop application for Mac and PC
  • Web-based platform accessible from any browser

Reviews

Rating

Lightspeed has been rated 3.7 out of 5 on Software advice.

Final Verdict on Lightspeed

Lightspeed is an excellent choice for retail stores that need an all-in-one solution for managing inventory, sales, and customers. With its extensive features and strong support for multi-store operations, it's especially designed for growing businesses looking to expand their physical and online presence.

4. Zoho Books

Zoho Books is a smart accounting solution designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It helps automate business processes, including sales, inventory, and finances. This system is built to provide real-time insights into your operations, making it easier to manage your inventory and keep your business running smoothly.

Features of Zoho Books

  • Real-time inventory tracking
  • Automated reorder points
  • Detailed inventory reports
  • Multi-warehouse management
  • Barcode scanning
  • Purchase order management
  • Sales order management
  • Item kitting and bundling
  • Integration with e-commerce platforms

Top 3 Features of Zoho Books

1. Real-Time Inventory Tracking

Zoho Books offers live updates on inventory levels, allowing businesses to see current stock, pending orders, and sales data at a glance.

2. Automated Reorder Points

Set reorder points to automatically alert you when it’s time to restock, ensuring you never run out of key items.

3. Detailed Inventory Reports

Generate detailed reports to analyze sales trends, stock levels, and overall inventory health, helping you make informed decisions.

Pros of Zoho Books

  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
  • Excellent automation features for inventory and accounting tasks.
  • Strong reporting tools provide valuable insights into business operations.
  • Efficiently integrates with other Zoho apps and various third-party services.

Cons of Zoho Books

  • Can become expensive as additional features and users are added.
  • Some reports and features can be complex for beginners.
  • Limited customization options for invoices and sales forms.
  • Customer support response times can vary.

Pricing of Zoho Books

  • Free Plan: Available for businesses with turnover less than a specific threshold (varies by country).
  • Standard: $29 per organization/month billed annually.
  • Professional: $89 per organization/month billed annually.
  • Premium: $129 per organization/month billed annually.
  • Enterprise: $249 per organization/month billed annually.

Customer Support of Zoho Books

  • 24/5 customer support via phone, email, and chat.
  • Extensive online help documentation.
  • Community forums for user interactions.
  • Regular webinars and training sessions.

Supported Platforms of Zoho Books

  • Android and iOS mobile apps.
  • Web-based platform accessible through any modern web browser.
  • No dedicated desktop application, but integrations are available for desktop functionality.

Reviews

Rating

Zoho Books has been given a rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Software advice.

Final Verdict on Zoho Books

Zoho Books is a great choice for businesses looking for integrated accounting software that handles inventory management efficiently. Its strong automation and reporting capabilities make it a valuable tool for maintaining control over your finances and stock, especially for businesses that are scaling up.

5. Ordoro

Ordoro is a platform designed to manage everything that an online retailer needs. It's not just about inventory; Ordoro also handles shipping, warehousing, and even some marketing tasks. If you're selling on multiple channels, Ordoro can simplify your operations by syncing everything in one place.

Features of Ordoro

  • Multichannel inventory syncing
  • Batch shipping label creation
  • Dropshipping management
  • Kitting and bundling
  • Barcode scanning
  • Custom packing slips
  • Advanced analytics
  • Shipping rate comparison
  • Automated workflows

Top 3 Features of Ordoro

1. Multichannel Inventory Syncing

Ordoro keeps your inventory up-to-date across all your sales channels. This means no more overselling or running out of stock unexpectedly.

2. Batch Shipping Label Creation

Save time by printing multiple shipping labels at once. Whether you're sending out ten packages or a hundred, Ordoro makes it quick and easy.

3. Dropshipping Management

Manage your dropshipping needs directly from the platform. Ordoro communicates with suppliers to ensure products are shipped directly to your customers without hassle.

Pros of Ordoro

  • Simplifies management of sales across multiple online channels.
  • Automates repetitive tasks like shipping and inventory updates.
  • Provides detailed reports to help understand business performance.
  • Excellent integration with major e-commerce platforms and marketplaces.

Cons of Ordoro

  • Pricing can be high for small businesses.
  • Initial setup and learning curve may be challenging.
  • Limited customization options for specific business needs.
  • Customer support can be slow during peak times.

Pricing of Ordoro

  • Starts at $349/mo

Customer Support of Ordoro

  • Email support with dedicated account managers for higher plans.
  • Knowledge base available online.
  • Webinars and training resources for new users.

Supported Platforms of Ordoro

  • Web-based platform accessible on any device with internet access.
  • No native mobile apps, but the web interface is mobile-friendly.

Reviews

Rating

Ordoro has been given a rating of 4.8 out of 5 on Software advice.

Final Verdict onOrdoro

Ordoro is a solid choice if you’re looking to optimize your e-commerce operations. It's particularly good for businesses that operate across multiple online platforms and need a unified approach to manage inventory and shipping efficiently. While it might be a bit pricey for smaller operations, the time and hassle it saves could be well worth the investment.

6. inFlow Inventory

inFlow Inventory is an efficient tool for managing inventory and orders. It's built to help small to medium-sized businesses keep track of products, handle sales, and even manage purchases. If you need something that gets the job done without a lot of fuss, inFlow Inventory might be just what you're looking for.

Features of inFlow Inventory

  • Real-time inventory tracking
  • Barcode scanning
  • Customizable product categories
  • Purchase order management
  • Sales order management
  • Stock adjustments and transfers
  • Customer and vendor management
  • Reporting and forecasting
  • Multi-warehouse management

Top 3 Features of inFlow Inventory

1. Inventory Tracking

Stay up to date with your stock levels. inFlow lets you know what you have, what’s running low, and what needs to be reordered.

2. Barcode Scanning

Speed up your inventory management with barcode scanning. It makes checking in and checking out products quick and reduces errors.

3. Customizable Product Categories

Organize your products the way you want. inFlow lets you customize categories so you can keep everything neat and find items fast.

Pros of inFlow Inventory

  • User-friendly interface that’s easy to navigate.
  • Effective for managing multiple warehouses.
  • Enhances productivity with barcode scanning.
  • Offers detailed reports for better business decisions.

Cons of inFlow Inventory

  • Might lack some advanced features required by larger businesses.
  • Integration with other systems can be limited.
  • Customer support responsiveness varies.
  • Mobile app features are not as extensive as the desktop version.

Pricing of inFlow Inventory

  • Light: $79 per month
  • Standard: $219 per month
  • Plus: $439 per month

Customer Support of inFlow Inventory

  • Email and phone support.
  • Online help center with articles and how-to guides.
  • Community forums for user interaction.

Supported Platforms of inFlow Inventory

  • Windows for desktop use.
  • Mobile apps for iOS and Android for managing on the go.
  • Web app available for access from any modern browser.

Reviews

Rating

inFlow Inventory has been given a rating of 4.8 out of 5 on Software advice.

Final Verdict oninFlow Inventory

inFlow Inventory is a great choice for small to medium-sized businesses looking for a reliable, no-frills inventory management system. While it may not have every high-end feature, its core functions are more than enough for most businesses to manage their inventory effectively.

7. Sage X3

Sage X3 is an all-in-one inventory management software that helps businesses keep track of their stock in a smart way. It's designed for businesses that not only want to manage their inventory but also want to enhance their overall supply chain efficiency, from purchase to sales to customer satisfaction.

Features of Sage X3

  • Barcode and tagging
  • Reporting tools
  • Inventory forecasting
  • Embedded cybersecurity layers
  • Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud-based systems
  • Automatic order tracking
  • Customizable inventory reports
  • Multi-channel integration

Top 3 Features of Sage X3

1. Barcode and Tagging

Sage X3 uses barcodes to record important details about products. This simplifies tracking and reduces mistakes caused by manual entry.

2. Automatic Order Tracking

This feature automatically updates your stock levels as orders are filled, making sure you always have the right amount of inventory.

3. Customizable Inventory Reports

Sage X3 allows you to generate various reports to monitor inventory levels, expenses, and more. You can customize these reports to fit your specific business needs.

Pros of Sage X3

  • Improves accuracy by minimizing human errors through automation.
  • Increases efficiency with fast and user-friendly operations.
  • Supports growth with scalable features that adapt to your business needs.

Cons of Sage X3

  • Might be complex for very small businesses or those new to using inventory software.
  • Higher cost compared to simpler inventory management systems.
  • Requires internet connectivity to access cloud-based features.
  • The initial setup and integration can be time-consuming.

Pricing of Sage X3

Sage X3 offers customized pricing based on the specific needs and scale of your business. You can contact them directly for a quote.

Customer Support of Sage X3

  • Phone support is available during business hours.
  • Email support with a promised quick response.
  • Online resources, including tutorials and FAQs.

Supported Platforms of Sage X3

  • Web-based platform, accessible from any internet-enabled device.
  • No specific mobile apps, but the web interface is optimized for mobile use.

Reviews

Rating

Sage X3 has been given a rating of 4.2 out of 5 on Software advice.

Final Verdict on Sage X3

Sage X3 is ideal for businesses looking for a powerful and comprehensive inventory management system that does more than just track stock. It’s particularly useful for companies that need a system that integrates with their broader ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) needs, enhancing efficiency across multiple aspects of the business. 

8. Cin 7 Core

Cin7 Core is the last inventory management system we’re reviewing, and it’s a tool aimed at businesses that need more than just basic inventory tracking. It’s designed to integrate inventory management with sales channels, supply chains, and fulfillment processes, making it ideal for businesses looking to scale and streamline their operations across multiple platforms.

Features of Cin7 Core

  • Real-time inventory tracking
  • Integrated point of sale (POS) system
  • Order management
  • Multi-channel sales integration
  • Purchase and supplier management
  • Warehouse management
  • Built-in B2B eCommerce platform
  • Reporting and forecasting tools
  • EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) capabilities

Top 3 Features of Cin7 Core

1. Real-Time Inventory Tracking

Keep a finger on the pulse of your stock levels with real-time updates. Cin7 Core ensures that you always know what’s in stock, helping you manage sales and replenishment efficiently.

2. Integrated Point of Sale (POS)

Cin7 Core comes with an integrated POS system, making it easy to sell in-store or at events while keeping your inventory in sync.

3. Multi-Channel Sales Integration

Sell on multiple platforms like online, in physical stores, or through marketplaces and keep all your sales data in one place. Cin7 Core streamlines these processes so you can focus on growing your business.

Pros of Cin7 Core

  • Extensive integration options with multiple sales channels and marketplaces.
  • Live tracking allows for accurate inventory and order management.
  • Advanced features like EDI support and a built-in B2B platform.
  • Detailed analytics help in making informed business decisions.

Cons of Cin7 Core

  • The complexity of the system may require a learning curve.
  • Higher cost than simpler inventory systems.
  • Setup and customization can be time-consuming.
  • Requires good internet connectivity for optimal performance.

Pricing of Cin7 Core

Pricing details are typically custom based on the business requirements and usage, so you need to contact them directly for a quote.

Customer Support of Cin7 Core

  • 24/7 customer support via phone and email.
  • Online training and webinars.
  • Dedicated account manager for premium plans.

Supported Platforms of Cin7 Core

  • Web-based platform accessible from any internet-enabled device.
  • No specific mobile apps, but the web interface is optimized for mobile use.

Reviews

Rating

Cin 7 Core has been given a rating of 4.3 out of 5 on Software advice.

Final Verdict on Cin7 Core

Cin7 Core is an integrated solution to manage inventory across various sales channels and supply chains. It's particularly suited for medium to large businesses that require functionality and have the resources to implement and maintain a comprehensive system. While it might be overkill for smaller operations, its depth of features and scalability make it a great investment for growing companies.

Table Comparison - Top 3 Retail Inventory Management Software

Feature

ZarMoney

Cin7 Core

inFlow Inventory

Real-time Inventory Tracking

Multi-Channel Integration

Integrated POS

Automated Reordering

Barcode Scanning

Advanced Reporting

E-commerce Integration

Multi-Warehouse Management

Customer Management

Dropshipping Management

Best of the Best 

1. ZarMoney

ZarMoney handles everything from inventory to invoices, making it easy for any retail store. If your store is growing and you need better tools to keep up, know that ZarMoney’s inventory tracking software is built just for that. It's also great for managing sales online, being praised as one of the best e-commerce inventory management systems.

2. Cin7 Core

Cin7 Core is all about connecting your sales channels and inventory in one place. It helps businesses manage everything smoothly, especially if you sell both online and in physical stores. Cin7 Core is often highlighted for its effectiveness in retail inventory management software needs.

3. inFlow Inventory

inFlow Inventory makes inventory management simple, especially for smaller businesses that don’t need complicated systems. It’s perfect for keeping track of stock with real-time updates and barcode options. For those juggling sales and billing, consider inFlow, which is highlighted in the best retail invoicing software roundup.

Conclusion 

Moving beyond spreadsheets to specialized retail inventory management software can significantly change your business operations. 

Each tool mentioned offers unique features that cater to different business needs, helping you keep track of stock more efficiently and accurately. 

If you're looking for software that truly stands out and has extensive capabilities, consider ZarMoney as your go-to option for managing your retail inventory effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What makes inventory management software better than spreadsheets?

Inventory management software automates many tasks, reduces errors, and provides real-time updates that spreadsheets just can't match, including improving inventory management features and decreasing inventory costs.

2. Can I use these software options for a small business?

Yes, these software tools are designed to scale, making them suitable for small businesses that are looking to grow and manage inventory more effectively, including sample inventory.

3. How does ZarMoney help with e-commerce inventory management?

ZarMoney integrates effortlessly with various e-commerce platforms, providing real-time tracking and synchronization of inventory across all sales channels, making it a powerful sales software solution for retail sales.

4. Is training provided for ZarMoney software?

Yes, ZarMoney offers extensive training and support to help you get started and make the most of all the features available, including remarketing inventory management.

5. Can inventory management software handle multiple store locations?

Yes, most modern inventory management software, including the ones discussed, supports multi-location management, helping you track inventory across several inventory locations.

6. What is the cost of implementing retail inventory management software?

Costs vary depending on the software chosen, the number of users, and the specific needs of your business. Most providers offer tiered pricing to suit different budgets, are effective in managing multichannel sales, and can be a suitable sales solution for the service industry.