Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Executive summary
Inventory management software helps retailers track stock accurately, reduce shrinkage, prevent stockouts, and make faster decisions across every location. The right system improves visibility, cash flow, and operational efficiency. The wrong one creates gaps, errors, and unnecessary loss.This guide explains what inventory management software does, the main types available, and the benefits retailers should expect. It also includes a list of top inventory management software systems for 2026 and shows how Solink adds visual context to inventory events so teams can investigate issues faster.
Key takeaways
- Inventory management software helps track stock, sales, orders, and reordering in real time.
- Common system types include cloud-based, POS-integrated, standalone, WMS, multichannel, and RFID platforms.
- Key benefits include better visibility, lower shrinkage, improved cash flow, and fewer stockouts.
The right inventory management system (IMS) can make or break your retail operation. When you know exactly what’s in stock – and what isn’t – across every location, you cut waste, reduce theft, and make faster purchasing decisions. The wrong system (or no system at all) leaves you guessing.
Below, you’ll find a breakdown of what inventory management software does, the main types available, the benefits you should expect, and a comprehensive list of the best inventory management software systems for retail businesses in 2026.See how Solink can help you obtain operational control over your business.
Key takeaways
Below, you’ll find a breakdown of what inventory management software does, the main types available, the benefits you should expect, and a comprehensive list of the best inventory management software systems for retail businesses in 2026.See how Solink can help you obtain operational control over your business.
Key takeaways
- What IMS does: Inventory management software helps you track stock levels, sales, orders, and reordering across your business.
- System types: Retailers can choose from cloud-based or on-premises systems, standalone platforms, POS-integrated tools, and specialized options like barcode, WMS, multichannel, and RFID systems.
- Core benefits: The right IMS gives you real-time visibility, reduces theft and shrinkage, improves cash flow, and helps prevent stockouts.
- Where Solink fits: Solink adds visual context to inventory events so you can see what happened, understand why it happened, and act faster.
What is inventory management software?
Inventory management software (IMS) is a digital tool designed to oversee and organize stock levels, sales, and orders within a business. The primary goal is to maintain an optimal inventory level, ensuring that products are in the right place, at the right time, and in the correct quantity.
Together, these capabilities give retailers end-to-end visibility into what they have, where it is, and what action to take next.
- Real-time stock tracking: Monitor inventory levels as products are received, moved, sold, returned, or written off.
- Barcode and QR code scanning: Speed up receiving, counting, and lookup tasks with faster, more accurate item identification.
- Low-stock alerts: Get notified when inventory drops below a set threshold so you can reorder before stockouts happen.
- Cloud-based syncing: Keep inventory data updated across locations, devices, and teams without manual reconciliation.
- Reporting and analytics: Review inventory movement, sales patterns, and performance trends to support better decisions.
- Integration with other tools: Connect inventory data with POS systems, e-commerce platforms, accounting software, and platforms like Solink for added operational context.
Together, these capabilities give retailers end-to-end visibility into what they have, where it is, and what action to take next.
What are the different types of inventory management systems?
Retail inventory management software (IMS) can be cloud-based or on-premises, and it can be part of your POS or standalone. Cloud-based systems are now the dominant choice for multi-location retailers because they sync data automatically, require no on-site servers, and let teams access inventory from any device. POS-integrated systems bundle inventory tracking with payment processing and sales reporting, while standalone platforms focus exclusively on stock management and often provide deeper warehouse or supply chain features.
Depending on your specific needs, one or a combination of the following types of retail inventory management software may be the best fit for your retail operation.
Depending on your specific needs, one or a combination of the following types of retail inventory management software may be the best fit for your retail operation.
Barcode scanning systems
Barcode scanning systems help retailers quickly scan products using handheld devices or mobile apps for fast, accurate tracking. Many modern platforms also support QR codes, giving you more flexibility in how you label and identify items. This type is especially useful for stores with high volume, rapid turnover, or frequent physical inventory counts. This type helps retailers quickly scan products for easy tracking. This is especially useful for stores with high volume or rapid turnover.
Warehouse management systems (WMS)
Aimed at larger operations, these manage stock within a warehouse setting. They include features for shelf space allocation, picking, and receiving.
Order management systems
Focused on the sales aspect, these platforms integrate inventory levels with sales orders, often linking to e-commerce platforms or marketplaces.
Multichannel systems
These are designed for businesses operating in multiple sales channels. They centralize inventory data from online stores, physical retail, social commerce platforms, and third-party marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. The key advantage is real-time stock synchronization: when an item sells online, your in-store count updates automatically, reducing overselling and stockouts.
RFID systems
These use radio-frequency identification for tracking items. They’re generally faster and can collect more data than traditional barcode systems but are more expensive.
What are the benefits of using retail inventory management software?
The biggest benefits of retail inventory management software are real-time visibility into stock levels, reduced theft and shrinkage, improved cash flow, and a better customer experience. Beyond those headline outcomes, a good IMS streamlines day-to-day operations and gives you data to make smarter purchasing and staffing decisions.
Here are 10 benefits to consider:
These benefits become even more powerful when paired with other operational tools. Solink’s AI-Driven Video Intelligence Platform connects video to your business data so you can see exactly what happened during an inventory event—whether it’s a receiving error, a miscount at the register, or suspected theft. Instead of just knowing something is missing, you know why, and you can act on it.
Here are 10 benefits to consider:
- Real-time tracking: Get instant updates on stock levels, which is crucial for timely decision-making. Add remote video monitoring to have eyes on every inventory event from receiving to POS transactions.
- Streamlined operations: Automation of manual tasks reduces human error and speeds up processes.
- Less wastage: Automated systems can predict when products will go out of date, allowing you to take preventive actions.
- Improved cash flow: Knowing exactly what’s in stock helps with better purchasing decisions, positively impacting your cash flow.
- Control operational shrink: Gain better insights into lost inventory due to issues like damage or miscounting.
- Data-driven decisions: Advanced analytics features enable more accurate forecasts and trend analysis.
- Reduce external theft: Real-time tracking can alert you to discrepancies that could indicate theft.
- Uncover internal theft: With employee activity tracking, you can identify suspicious behavior that may indicate internal theft.
- Enhanced customer experience: Accurate stock levels mean fewer out-of-stock instances, leading to happier customers.
- Scalability: As your business grows, a good system can adapt and expand its capabilities accordingly.
These benefits become even more powerful when paired with other operational tools. Solink’s AI-Driven Video Intelligence Platform connects video to your business data so you can see exactly what happened during an inventory event—whether it’s a receiving error, a miscount at the register, or suspected theft. Instead of just knowing something is missing, you know why, and you can act on it.
COO guide to AI-driven retail loss prevention and risk reduction
Retailers lose an estimated $132 billion annually to shrink – and that’s only part of the total loss picture.
And retailers know it. The report found 89% of retail leaders are aware of total retail loss, and 64% report it has already impacted the way their organization manages loss. Yet only 55% say they can actually calculate total retail loss across their business, largely because the data required is still siloed, incomplete, or inconsistently captured across functions.
Download the guide by filling out the form.
And retailers know it. The report found 89% of retail leaders are aware of total retail loss, and 64% report it has already impacted the way their organization manages loss. Yet only 55% say they can actually calculate total retail loss across their business, largely because the data required is still siloed, incomplete, or inconsistently captured across functions.
Download the guide by filling out the form.
26 best inventory management software systems
Here’s our compiled list of the 26 best inventory management software systems available in 2026, designed to suit a variety of needs and budgets. We’ve grouped them alphabetically so you can scan quickly. For each, you’ll find a summary of what it does, who it’s built for, and where it fits (standalone, POS-integrated, or part of a larger suite).
Blueyonder is an enterprise-level inventory management system suitable for large retailers and businesses with intricate supply chains. It offers both on-premises and cloud-based solutions, allowing for increased operational flexibility. Standout features include real-time analytics, machine learning-driven forecasting, and seamless integration with various operational tools.
It targets a wide array of industries such as retail, manufacturing, and logistics. Given its complexity and associated costs, Blueyonder is generally not suited for small- to mid-sized businesses. However, for larger operations requiring a comprehensive solution, it is a top-tier option.
It targets a wide array of industries such as retail, manufacturing, and logistics. Given its complexity and associated costs, Blueyonder is generally not suited for small- to mid-sized businesses. However, for larger operations requiring a comprehensive solution, it is a top-tier option.
Brightpearl is a cloud-based retail operating system designed to integrate inventory management, accounting, and other core retail processes into a single platform. It’s particularly strong in managing multi-channel sales, making it ideal for retailers who operate both online and in physical locations.
The system is designed mainly for small- to medium-sized businesses and aims to simplify operations by automating workflows. Its integrated approach means it functions both as an inventory system and as part of a broader POS platform. The platform is targeted at various retail sectors, including fashion, beauty, and home & garden.
The system is designed mainly for small- to medium-sized businesses and aims to simplify operations by automating workflows. Its integrated approach means it functions both as an inventory system and as part of a broader POS platform. The platform is targeted at various retail sectors, including fashion, beauty, and home & garden.
ChannelAdvisor is a cloud-based solution geared toward e-commerce retailers who sell on multiple platforms. It excels in centralized inventory management and analytics tools designed to optimize online presence. The platform is known for its robust multi-channel support, including marketplaces like Amazon and eBay.
ChannelAdvisor is a fit for medium- to large-sized businesses looking to manage complex online sales strategies across various platforms. It is not typically used as part of a POS system but serves as a strong standalone inventory management system for those focused on e-commerce.
ChannelAdvisor is a fit for medium- to large-sized businesses looking to manage complex online sales strategies across various platforms. It is not typically used as part of a POS system but serves as a strong standalone inventory management system for those focused on e-commerce.
Cin7 is a cloud-based inventory management software solution that also includes a built-in POS system. It offers features like real-time stock tracking, automated reordering, and integration with e-commerce platforms. It’s designed to be an all-in-one solution for inventory, sales, and supply chain management.
Cin7 is targeted at small- to mid-sized businesses in a range of industries including fashion, food and beverage, and electronics. Its flexibility makes it a strong choice for retailers who want a comprehensive, integrated system that can grow along with their business.
Cin7 is targeted at small- to mid-sized businesses in a range of industries including fashion, food and beverage, and electronics. Its flexibility makes it a strong choice for retailers who want a comprehensive, integrated system that can grow along with their business.
Finale Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management system known for its adaptability and ease of use. It supports a broad array of business models, including e-commerce, wholesale, and manufacturing. Features like batch tracking, multi-location support, and high-level customization options set it apart.
The software is aimed at small- to mid-sized enterprises, serving as a standalone inventory management system. Finale Inventory is versatile and user-friendly, making it a strong choice for businesses that are looking for a system that is easy to implement and can adapt to changing needs.
The software is aimed at small- to mid-sized enterprises, serving as a standalone inventory management system. Finale Inventory is versatile and user-friendly, making it a strong choice for businesses that are looking for a system that is easy to implement and can adapt to changing needs.
Fishbowl Inventory is a popular standalone inventory management solution with both on-premises and cloud-based options. It specializes in warehouse management and manufacturing inventory, providing features like barcode scanning, asset tracking, and work order management.
Primarily aimed at small- to medium-sized businesses, Fishbowl Inventory is popular in industries like manufacturing, wholesale, and retail. It has broad compatibility with other software and can integrate seamlessly with QuickBooks, making it a good fit for businesses already using this accounting software.
Primarily aimed at small- to medium-sized businesses, Fishbowl Inventory is popular in industries like manufacturing, wholesale, and retail. It has broad compatibility with other software and can integrate seamlessly with QuickBooks, making it a good fit for businesses already using this accounting software.
inFlow Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management system known for its user-friendly interface and robust feature set. It offers real-time stock tracking, barcode scanning, and comprehensive reporting tools, making it an all-encompassing solution for inventory needs. inFlow has expanded into a family of products – including inFlow Stockroom for asset tracking and inFlow Manufacturing for production workflows – along with proprietary hardware like a smart scanner and label printer.
This software is designed mainly for small- and mid-sized businesses in retail, wholesale, and manufacturing. Whether you’re a single-person operation or a growing team, inFlow’s scalable solution offers options that can evolve with your business.
This software is designed mainly for small- and mid-sized businesses in retail, wholesale, and manufacturing. Whether you’re a single-person operation or a growing team, inFlow’s scalable solution offers options that can evolve with your business.
Katana is a modern, cloud-based inventory and production management software specially designed for scaling manufacturers and online sellers. The platform’s auto-booking system prioritizes orders for you, meaning you don’t have to manually assign production tasks to your workshop.
Targeting small- to medium-sized manufacturing companies, Katana aims to make the production process more transparent and efficient. It is highly customizable and can easily be integrated with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, making it a comprehensive choice for those operating online.
Targeting small- to medium-sized manufacturing companies, Katana aims to make the production process more transparent and efficient. It is highly customizable and can easily be integrated with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, making it a comprehensive choice for those operating online.
Linnworks is a cloud-based, multi-channel inventory management system. It shines in its ability to integrate multiple sales channels and centrally manage operations. Notable features include bulk listing, order management, and real-time stock synchronization.
The platform is designed for medium to large enterprises and is popular in sectors like fashion, electronics, and automotive. Its focus on multi-channel selling makes it an optimal choice for businesses with diversified sales platforms, including both e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail.
The platform is designed for medium to large enterprises and is popular in sectors like fashion, electronics, and automotive. Its focus on multi-channel selling makes it an optimal choice for businesses with diversified sales platforms, including both e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail.
Megaventory is a cloud-based inventory management software with a focus on simplicity and user accessibility. Its key features include order fulfillment, manufacturing management, and detailed reporting analytics. The software is versatile and supports multiple languages and currencies.
It is geared toward small- and medium-sized businesses, with particular strength in the retail, wholesale, and manufacturing sectors. Its intuitive user interface and straightforward functionalities make it an excellent choice for businesses looking for a no-fuss, efficient inventory management solution.
It is geared toward small- and medium-sized businesses, with particular strength in the retail, wholesale, and manufacturing sectors. Its intuitive user interface and straightforward functionalities make it an excellent choice for businesses looking for a no-fuss, efficient inventory management solution.
NetSuite’s cloud-based inventory management software is part of its larger suite of enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions. It offers extensive features like real-time inventory visibility, demand planning, and warehouse management.
Designed for medium to large enterprises, NetSuite is a fit for a variety of industries such as retail, wholesale, and manufacturing. Its scalability and depth of features make it suitable for complex, multi-location inventory systems.
Designed for medium to large enterprises, NetSuite is a fit for a variety of industries such as retail, wholesale, and manufacturing. Its scalability and depth of features make it suitable for complex, multi-location inventory systems.
Odoo is an open-source suite of business applications, including a comprehensive inventory management module. It’s cloud-based but also offers an on-premises version. Key features include real-time tracking, automated workflows, and advanced routing mechanisms like drop-shipping and cross-docking.
This software is ideal for small to large businesses and can fit various industries, including retail, manufacturing, and services. Its modular approach allows businesses to start with the inventory app and add more functionalities as they grow, making it highly scalable.
This software is ideal for small to large businesses and can fit various industries, including retail, manufacturing, and services. Its modular approach allows businesses to start with the inventory app and add more functionalities as they grow, making it highly scalable.
Orderhive is a cloud-based order management system that also offers robust inventory management features. Its capabilities include real-time tracking, multichannel selling, and automated order processing.
This software is geared towards small- to medium-sized businesses in the e-commerce and retail sectors. Orderhive aims to simplify complex processes, offering a central dashboard to manage orders, inventory, and shipping.
This software is geared towards small- to medium-sized businesses in the e-commerce and retail sectors. Orderhive aims to simplify complex processes, offering a central dashboard to manage orders, inventory, and shipping.
Ordoro is a cloud-based inventory and shipping management platform designed specifically for e-commerce retailers. It excels in centralizing orders from multiple sales channels and offers built-in shipping rate comparisons, batch processing, and analytics.
Aimed at small- to medium-sized e-commerce businesses, Ordoro integrates well with a variety of shopping carts and marketplaces. It serves as a standalone system, focusing on simplifying shipping and inventory management to help retailers save time and reduce errors.
Aimed at small- to medium-sized e-commerce businesses, Ordoro integrates well with a variety of shopping carts and marketplaces. It serves as a standalone system, focusing on simplifying shipping and inventory management to help retailers save time and reduce errors.
QuickBooks Commerce, formerly known as TradeGecko, is a powerful cloud-based inventory and order management software. It offers seamless integration with other QuickBooks products, which is a boon for businesses already in the QuickBooks ecosystem. Key features include stock tracking, order management, and multi-currency support.
Designed for small- to medium-sized businesses, QuickBooks Commerce is commonly used in wholesale, manufacturing, and retail. Its ability to integrate with various e-commerce platforms and marketplaces makes it a versatile choice for businesses operating in multiple sales channels.
Designed for small- to medium-sized businesses, QuickBooks Commerce is commonly used in wholesale, manufacturing, and retail. Its ability to integrate with various e-commerce platforms and marketplaces makes it a versatile choice for businesses operating in multiple sales channels.
SalesWarp offers advanced inventory management features and is known for its order orchestration capabilities. It’s a cloud-based platform that provides real-time visibility into all stages of the supply chain.
Aimed at medium to large businesses, SalesWarp is most suitable for multi-channel retailers. Its strong point is centralized management, allowing you to sync and manage orders, products, and customer data across various systems.
Aimed at medium to large businesses, SalesWarp is most suitable for multi-channel retailers. Its strong point is centralized management, allowing you to sync and manage orders, products, and customer data across various systems.
SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) is a cloud-based solution designed for large enterprises with complex supply chains. It offers advanced inventory optimization and demand forecasting features, among others.
As part of the larger SAP ecosystem, IBP is targeted at large enterprises and is often used in industries such as manufacturing, retail, and distribution. Its strengths lie in its analytics capabilities and the ability to integrate with other SAP modules.
As part of the larger SAP ecosystem, IBP is targeted at large enterprises and is often used in industries such as manufacturing, retail, and distribution. Its strengths lie in its analytics capabilities and the ability to integrate with other SAP modules.
ShipBob Merchant Plus is a cloud-based inventory management software designed to meet the needs of e-commerce businesses. It focuses on streamlined fulfillment by integrating with popular online marketplaces and shopping carts. Key features include real-time inventory tracking, order syncing, and analytics for data-driven decisions.
Targeting e-commerce businesses of all sizes, ShipBob Merchant Plus offers a comprehensive solution for those wanting to optimize their fulfillment strategy. It’s particularly useful for businesses that need to manage inventory stored in multiple locations, including third-party logistics providers.
Targeting e-commerce businesses of all sizes, ShipBob Merchant Plus offers a comprehensive solution for those wanting to optimize their fulfillment strategy. It’s particularly useful for businesses that need to manage inventory stored in multiple locations, including third-party logistics providers.
ShipHero is a cloud-based inventory and order management solution designed primarily for e-commerce businesses. It offers features like batch shipping, barcode scanning, and even outsourced fulfillment options.
Suited for small- to medium-sized e-commerce companies, ShipHero focuses on efficiency and accuracy in both inventory management and shipping processes. Its platform is designed to make online selling simpler, faster, and more cost-effective.
Suited for small- to medium-sized e-commerce companies, ShipHero focuses on efficiency and accuracy in both inventory management and shipping processes. Its platform is designed to make online selling simpler, faster, and more cost-effective.
Shopify offers an inventory management system that’s integrated into its leading commerce platform. It’s cloud-based and allows for seamless tracking of products, orders, and customers across online, social, and in-store channels via Shopify POS.
Mainly targeted at small- to medium-sized businesses, Shopify is a great option whether you’re launching your first online store or managing a growing omnichannel operation. Its user-friendly interface and extensive app marketplace allow for a highly customized and scalable solution.
Mainly targeted at small- to medium-sized businesses, Shopify is a great option whether you’re launching your first online store or managing a growing omnichannel operation. Its user-friendly interface and extensive app marketplace allow for a highly customized and scalable solution.
Sortly is a visual inventory management software that distinguishes itself with a user-friendly, image-based system. It’s cloud-based and allows for easy categorization and tracking of items using pictures, barcodes, and QR codes. Its mobile app supports offline use, so teams can run inventory counts even without a network connection.
Primarily designed for small businesses, Sortly is popular among industries that benefit from visual documentation like healthcare, education, and retail. Custom fields let you track item-specific details beyond the basics. It’s a standalone system ideal for companies that prefer a more intuitive, less text-heavy approach to inventory management.
Primarily designed for small businesses, Sortly is popular among industries that benefit from visual documentation like healthcare, education, and retail. Custom fields let you track item-specific details beyond the basics. It’s a standalone system ideal for companies that prefer a more intuitive, less text-heavy approach to inventory management.
Square for Retail is part of the broader Square ecosystem, functioning both as a POS system and an inventory management solution. It’s cloud-based, focusing on real-time inventory tracking, employee management, and customer engagement. Advanced tiers add barcode label printing, cost-of-goods-sold (COGS) reporting, multi-location stock transfers, and vendor management.
Aimed at small- to medium-sized retail businesses, Square for Retail is particularly effective for brick-and-mortar stores looking to integrate point-of-sale and inventory systems. Its simplicity and ease of use make it accessible, even for those without much technical expertise, while its advanced reporting features support more data-driven decision-making as you grow.
Aimed at small- to medium-sized retail businesses, Square for Retail is particularly effective for brick-and-mortar stores looking to integrate point-of-sale and inventory systems. Its simplicity and ease of use make it accessible, even for those without much technical expertise, while its advanced reporting features support more data-driven decision-making as you grow.
Unleashed Software is a cloud-based inventory management platform that offers a wide range of features including real-time inventory control, reporting, and multi-currency support. It specializes in servicing businesses that manufacture, wholesale, or retail goods.
Targeting small- to medium-sized businesses, Unleashed is versatile enough to serve various industries. The platform is known for its ease of use, powerful APIs, and seamless integrations with various third-party applications like accounting software and e-commerce platforms.
Targeting small- to medium-sized businesses, Unleashed is versatile enough to serve various industries. The platform is known for its ease of use, powerful APIs, and seamless integrations with various third-party applications like accounting software and e-commerce platforms.
Veeqo is a cloud-based platform that caters to omnichannel retailers, offering inventory and shipping management. Features include real-time inventory synchronization, order management, and a variety of shipping options, including bulk shipping.
This software is aimed at medium to large retailers, and it supports integration with popular e-commerce platforms and marketplaces. With its robust set of features, Veeqo aims to be a one-stop-shop for online retailers who require advanced inventory and order management capabilities.
This software is aimed at medium to large retailers, and it supports integration with popular e-commerce platforms and marketplaces. With its robust set of features, Veeqo aims to be a one-stop-shop for online retailers who require advanced inventory and order management capabilities.
Wasp Inventory Control is an on-premises inventory management software that specializes in barcode technology. It offers key features like real-time tracking, audit trails, and low-stock alerts.
This software is suitable for small- to medium-sized businesses and is especially popular among industries requiring high levels of accuracy in their inventory tracking, such as healthcare and manufacturing.
This software is suitable for small- to medium-sized businesses and is especially popular among industries requiring high levels of accuracy in their inventory tracking, such as healthcare and manufacturing.
Zoho Inventory is part of the larger Zoho suite of business productivity tools. This cloud-based inventory management software offers features like multichannel selling, shipping integrations, and inventory control. It aims to be an easy-to-use, scalable solution for businesses of all sizes.
Designed for small- to medium-sized businesses, Zoho Inventory is a good fit for a range of industries including retail, e-commerce, and wholesale. Its strengths lie in its integrative capabilities, as it works seamlessly with other Zoho products and various third-party applications.
Designed for small- to medium-sized businesses, Zoho Inventory is a good fit for a range of industries including retail, e-commerce, and wholesale. Its strengths lie in its integrative capabilities, as it works seamlessly with other Zoho products and various third-party applications.
How Solink improves your inventory management
IMS tells you what. Solink tells you why.
Inventory management software shows you that something changed. Solink’s AI-Driven Video Intelligence Platform adds the visual context behind that change so you can investigate faster, reduce loss, and improve operations across every location.
To see how Solink improves your inventory management, book a demo today.
Inventory management software shows you that something changed. Solink’s AI-Driven Video Intelligence Platform adds the visual context behind that change so you can investigate faster, reduce loss, and improve operations across every location.
- Investigate discrepancies fast: Pair video with transaction data to review receiving errors, register miscounts, and other inventory events in context.
- Reduce shrinkage at the source: Identify root causes and take corrective action to reduce operational shrink.
- Uncover internal and external theft: Use AI pattern detection linked to video evidence to investigate internal theft and external theft.
- Get visibility across every location: Review activity across sites from a single cloud-based platform without traveling store to store.
- Work with what you have: Solink connects to existing cameras, so you don’t need a hardware overhaul to get more value from your video system.
To see how Solink improves your inventory management, book a demo today.
Frequently asked questions
Is there free inventory management software?
Yes. Several inventory management platforms offer free tiers, including Zoho Inventory, Square for Retail, and Sortly. Free plans usually come with limits such as monthly order caps, user limits, or restrictions on locations and advanced features. They can work well for solo operators or early-stage businesses, but most retailers outgrow them as SKU counts, transaction volume, or store locations increase.
Can I use Excel for inventory management?
Yes, Excel can work for basic inventory tracking, especially for small businesses with limited SKUs.
- There are no real-time updates across users or locations.
- It does not integrate directly with POS systems or e-commerce channels the way dedicated IMS platforms do.
- Manual entry becomes error-prone as your inventory grows.
- It does not provide automated alerts for low stock, reorder points, or unusual activity.
What are the 4 types of inventory management?
The four core inventory management methodologies are:
Most businesses use a combination of these approaches, supported by inventory management software that automates tracking, reordering, and reporting.
- Just-in-time (JIT): Orders stock only as needed to minimize storage costs.
- Materials requirements planning (MRP): Uses sales forecasts to guide purchasing and production scheduling.
- Economic order quantity (EOQ): Calculates the ideal order size to balance holding costs and ordering costs.
- Days sales of inventory (DSI): Measures how many days it takes to sell through current stock.
Most businesses use a combination of these approaches, supported by inventory management software that automates tracking, reordering, and reporting.