How to Automate Inventory Management Across Sales Channels

Managing inventory manually can lead to a host of problems: overselling, stockouts, and time wasted on repetitive tasks. Without automation, syncing inventory across multiple platforms becomes chaotic, especially when sales happen in real-time. Key questions arise:

• Do I need to sync inventory across multiple sales channels? If you sell on platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and physical stores, automation ensures accuracy everywhere.
• How do I handle purchase orders? Automated systems can generate purchase orders based on real-time stock levels and sales velocity.
• How do I improve sales forecasting? Tools that track inventory trends and sales velocity help you predict demand and avoid overstocking or stockouts.
• Who needs access to real time inventory? Obviously your staff will need access but also keep in mind your sales team. Your CRM should ensure real-time inventory levels for accurate quotes and opportunity pipelines.

Automation is the key to streamlining these processes and scaling your business efficiently.

Top Tools for Automating Inventory Management

Shopify

Best For: Direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands selling only on Shopify.

Pros:

• Built-in inventory tracking tailored for Shopify stores.
• Seamless integration with Shopify POS systems for online and in-person sales.
• Easy setup for small businesses.

Cons:

• Limited functionality for multi-channel sellers; additional apps or tools may be needed.

Cin7 Core

Best For: Small to medium-sized businesses managing multiple sales channels.

Pros:

• Real-time inventory syncing across Shopify, Amazon, and physical stores.
• Advanced stock projections to avoid stockouts or overstocking.
• Automated purchase orders for better supplier management.

Cons:

• Unnecessary expense and complexity for single-channel sellers.

Ensure Your Inventory Solution Syncs to Your CRM System

For wholesale sellers, syncing your inventory system to a CRM is a game-changer. A CRM tailored for B2B operations, like SellifyCRM, integrates seamlessly with tools like Shopify and Cin7 Core. This integration offers:

• Real-time inventory syncing to streamline order management.
• Centralized data for better customer relationship management.
• Automated sales tracking and smart tasking to boost reorder rates.

Summary and Next Steps

To choose the right tool for automating inventory management, consider your business needs:

• Evaluate your current challenges, such as multi-channel selling or manual order handling.
• Identify critical features like inventory syncing, purchase order automation, or sales forecasting.
• Select a tool that aligns with your operational scale and integrates with your existing systems.
• Streamline your inventory processes and focus on growing your business with the right automation tools. Inventory automation and smart CRM integration can be a gamechanger for your business.