Effective inventory management is crucial for Shopify store owners looking to avoid stockouts, overstock, and lost sales. With the right tools, you can optimize your inventory, predict future sales, and maintain the right inventory levels to meet customer demand. In this article, we’ll explore the 11 best Shopify inventory forecasting apps that can help you stay on top of your inventory, reduce costs, and boost sales.
Over 48,991 websites currently run Shopify Plus, with nearly 20,000 distinct merchants. (source)
What to Look for in a Shopify Inventory Forecasting App
When selecting a Shopify inventory forecasting app, consider the following features to ensure it meets your store’s needs:
- Real-time stock sync: Ensure your inventory levels are accurate across all sales channels.
- Demand forecasting: Predict future sales trends and avoid stockouts or excess inventory.
- Low stock alerts: Get notifications when products in stock run low, so you can reorder inventory in time.
- Automated purchase orders: Streamline your workflow by automating the reordering process.
- Inventory planning tools: Manage complex inventory needs with features like inventory planner forecasting and stock transfer.
Read More:7 Best Shopify SKU and Barcode Apps
the 9 Best Shopify Inventory Forecasting Apps
1. Fabrikatör Inventory Assistant
Fabrikatör is designed to serve as your virtual head of operations, providing comprehensive support for inventory management, forecasting, and automating purchase orders. This app is ideal for large eCommerce operations that need precise inventory planning and real-time insights.
- Key Features:
- Advanced demand forecasting using AI-powered tools.
- Automation of purchase orders based on sales trends.
- Inventory planner for organizing stock by categories, SKUs, and locations.
- Customizable dashboards and reports for inventory data analysis.
- Pros:
- Highly customizable to fit various business needs.
- Integrates well with multiple sales channels.
- Strong customer support and responsive development team.
- Cons:
- High monthly cost, starting at $350, which may be prohibitive for smaller stores.
- Requires time to learn and fully utilize all features.
- User Reviews & Ratings:
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Review Summary: Users appreciate the detailed analytics and automation features but note the learning curve associated with the app.
2. Stocky by Shopify
Stocky is a Shopify-owned inventory management app designed specifically for merchants using Shopify POS. It provides robust tools for inventory management, including forecasting and purchase order automation.
- Key Features:
- Native integration with Shopify POS for seamless inventory sync.
- Low stock alerts to prevent stockouts.
- Purchase order management and creation based on sales data.
- Detailed inventory reports to help manage stock levels.
- Pros:
- Easy to set up and use for existing Shopify users.
- Free with Shopify POS Pro subscription.
- Comprehensive features designed specifically for retail stores.
- Cons:
- Limited to Shopify POS users; not ideal for stores that don’t use POS.
- Some users report a lack of advanced features compared to other apps.
- User Reviews & Ratings:
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Review Summary: Users find Stocky useful for its integration with Shopify but wish for more advanced features.
3. Sumtracker Inventory App
Sumtracker is a powerful tool that helps Shopify merchants manage inventory across multiple sales channels, making it easier to keep track of stock, bundles, and purchase orders.
- Key Features:
- Multi-channel inventory sync including platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Amazon.
- Automated reorder points to maintain optimal inventory levels.
- Inventory planning for bundled products and kits.
- Low stock alerts and detailed inventory tracking reports.
- Pros:
- Ideal for multi-channel sellers.
- Easy to use with a clean and intuitive interface.
- Effective in preventing stockouts and managing overstock.
- Cons:
- Higher pricing tiers can be costly for smaller stores.
- Some users report occasional syncing issues with multiple channels.
- User Reviews & Ratings:
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Review Summary: Sumtracker is praised for its versatility across sales channels, though some users have experienced occasional technical glitches.
4. Prediko
Prediko is an AI-powered inventory forecasting hero that helps Shopify merchants predict customer demand, optimize inventory levels, and prevent dead stock.
- Key Features:
- AI-driven demand forecasting tailored to your store’s sales patterns.
- Seasonal trend analysis and forecast demand for better inventory planning.
- Integration with Shopify to pull sales data and adjust forecasts in real-time.
- Advanced inventory planner forecasting features for complex product assortments.
- Pros:
- High forecasting accuracy with AI-driven predictions.
- Easy integration with Shopify and other sales platforms.
- Great customer support and regular updates.
- Cons:
- Higher cost compared to some competitors.
- May require initial setup time to customize according to store needs.
- User Reviews & Ratings:
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Review Summary: Prediko is highly rated for its accuracy in predicting future sales and helping stores manage inventory levels effectively.
5. Katana Cloud Inventory
Katana offers a comprehensive inventory management solution that integrates with Shopify, providing real-time control over inventory, production, and order fulfillment.
- Key Features:
- Real-time visibility over production and inventory management.
- Seamless integration with Shopify for inventory tracking and stock control.
- Automated inventory updates and stock sync across multiple locations.
- Detailed analytics and inventory reports to optimize stock levels.
- Pros:
- Excellent for businesses that manage both production and sales.
- Easy-to-use interface with comprehensive support for inventory planning.
- Great at reducing waste and optimizing cash flow.
- Cons:
- Can be complex for smaller businesses without manufacturing needs.
- Higher pricing tiers may not be suitable for all store sizes.
- User Reviews & Ratings:
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Review Summary: Users appreciate the all-in-one nature of Katana, though it may be overkill for smaller stores.
6. EasyEcom Inventory Management
EasyEcom is a versatile inventory management software that simplifies inventory tracking and synchronization across multiple channels, making it an excellent choice for high-volume sellers.
- Key Features:
- Multi-channel inventory sync for platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and more.
- Automated purchase order generation to streamline restocking.
- Comprehensive inventory reports and analytics to monitor stock levels.
- Low stock alerts and real-time stock visibility.
- Pros:
- Ideal for stores selling across multiple platforms.
- Easy to set up and manage, with powerful analytics tools.
- Strong support for international selling and multi-warehouse management.
- Cons:
- Some users report occasional issues with platform syncing.
- Customer support response times can vary.
- User Reviews & Ratings:
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Review Summary: EasyEcom is well-regarded for its ability to manage inventory across various channels, though syncing issues can occasionally arise.
7. Back In Stock
Back In Stock helps Shopify merchants avoid lost sales by notifying customers when products are restocked, thus ensuring a better shopping experience and higher conversion rates.
- Key Features:
- Automated notifications for customers when products are back in stock.
- Customizable notification forms to match your brand’s design.
- Integration with Shopify to track inventory levels and automate restock alerts.
- Detailed reporting on restock notification performance.
- Pros:
- Increases customer satisfaction by reducing missed sales opportunities.
- Easy to set up with Shopify stores.
- Provides valuable insights into product demand.
- Cons:
- Limited to restock notifications; not a full inventory management solution.
- Some users report issues with email notifications being delayed.
- User Reviews & Ratings:
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Review Summary: Back In Stock is praised for its simplicity and effectiveness, though it’s best used alongside other inventory tools.
8. ShipHero Inventory & Shipping
ShipHero is a comprehensive inventory management and shipping platform designed for Shopify merchants who manage large volumes of orders. It streamlines inventory tracking, order management, and fulfillment from a single, unified platform, making it ideal for growing eCommerce businesses.
- Key Features:
- Inventory tracking across multiple warehouses with real-time stock visibility.
- Integrated order fulfillment and shipping, automating the entire process from inventory to delivery.
- Advanced analytics for inventory reports, helping optimize stock levels and reorder processes.
- Low stock alerts and automatic purchase order creation to prevent stockouts.
- Pros:
- Comprehensive solution covering both inventory and shipping.
- Helps reduce fulfillment errors with automated processes.
- Excellent support for large-scale operations with multiple warehouses.
- Cons:
- High monthly cost, starting at $1,995/month, which may be a barrier for smaller businesses.
- Some users report a steep learning curve for setting up and optimizing the system.
- User Reviews & Ratings:
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Review Summary: Users appreciate the robust features for inventory and shipping management, though the setup process can be complex.
9. Katana Cloud Inventory
Katana offers a cloud-based inventory management system that is especially beneficial for Shopify merchants involved in manufacturing. It integrates seamlessly with Shopify and provides real-time control over both inventory and production processes.
- Key Features:
- Real-time inventory control that syncs with Shopify for accurate stock levels.
- Integration with manufacturing processes, helping manage raw materials and finished goods.
- Automated inventory updates and stock sync across multiple locations.
- Analytics and reporting tools to track production efficiency and optimize inventory management.
- Pros:
- Ideal for businesses that manage both production and sales.
- Streamlines both manufacturing and inventory processes.
- Provides robust analytics for optimizing inventory planning.
- Cons:
- Might be more complex than necessary for stores that do not manage production.
- Higher cost can be a concern for smaller businesses.
- User Reviews & Ratings:
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Review Summary: Users appreciate the integration of inventory and manufacturing processes, although it might be too complex for simpler retail operations.
How to Choose the Right Inventory Forecasting App for Your Shopify Store
When selecting an inventory forecasting app for your Shopify store, consider factors such as your store size, sales volume, and the complexity of your inventory needs. Look for apps that offer accurate forecasting, real-time inventory sync, and detailed inventory reports. Additionally, consider the level of customer support provided and whether the app offers a free trial so you can test its features before committing.
FAQs
How do these apps handle inventory across multiple locations?
These apps provide inventory sync across multiple locations in real-time, ensuring that your stock levels are accurate no matter where your inventory is stored.
Can these apps manage returns and exchanges?
Yes, most of these apps include features for managing returns and exchanges, helping you maintain accurate inventory levels and optimize your inventory management.
What’s the setup time for these Shopify inventory apps?
Setup times vary depending on the complexity of the app, but most offer straightforward integration with Shopify, allowing you to start managing your inventory quickly.
What happens if a product is overselling?
If a product is overselling, some apps, like Stocky or Prediko, will notify you to adjust your inventory levels or place an immediate reorder. Additionally, apps with advanced inventory forecasting can help predict and prevent overselling by accurately matching inventory levels to customer demand.
Can these apps help with seasonal inventory management?
Yes, many of these apps, such as Prediko and Katana Cloud Inventory, offer seasonality forecasting features. They analyze sales data from previous years to predict spikes or drops in demand during certain times of the year, helping you optimize your inventory planning and avoid stockouts or excess inventory
How do these apps integrate with other platforms?
Most of the apps listed, like Sumtracker and EasyEcom, support multi-channel inventory sync. This means they can integrate with other platforms like Amazon, eBay, or Etsy, ensuring your inventory levels are consistent across all your sales channels.
Do these apps support automation of purchase orders?
Yes, apps like Fabrikatör and Automat Reports automate the purchase order process by generating orders when inventory reaches a predefined threshold. This automation helps maintain optimal inventory levels without manual intervention.
What if I have multiple warehouses?
Apps like ShipHero and Katana Cloud Inventory support inventory tracking across multiple warehouses. They provide real-time visibility into inventory levels at each location, allowing you to manage and transfer stock between warehouses efficiently.
Are there options for smaller Shopify stores with limited budgets?
Yes, several apps offer affordable pricing and free trials. For instance, Back In Stock and Sumtracker offer lower-cost plans that provide essential features suitable for smaller businesses. Many apps also offer free trials so you can evaluate the tool before committing.
How do these apps handle product bundles or kits?
Some apps, like Sumtracker and Katana, offer specialized features for managing product bundles or kits. They automatically adjust inventory levels based on the components used in each bundle, ensuring accurate stock management across all products.
Conclusion
Effective inventory management is essential for running a successful Shopify store. By utilizing the right inventory forecasting apps, you can maintain optimal inventory levels, avoid stockouts, and reduce the risk of holding excess inventory. The 11 apps reviewed in this article offer a range of features designed to streamline inventory management, from real-time stock sync and demand forecasting to automated purchase orders and detailed inventory reports. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, choosing the right tool can help you optimize your operations, improve cash flow, and ultimately boost sales. Evaluate your specific needs and take advantage of free trials to find the perfect app to help your Shopify store thrive in 2024.
