A man peering through a shelf full of boxes.

What to look for in a manufacturing inventory management system

Manufacturing inventory management isn’t easy, but it’s necessary for sustainable success and growth. Check out this blog for everything you need to know.

What to look for in a manufacturing inventory management system Read More »

Manufacturers know that inventory management is a massive part of the job. And as your business grows, controlling inventory only gets harder.

Thankfully, a robust manufacturing inventory management system simplifies your operations and scales with your business.

This blog looks into everything you need to know about manufacturing inventory management, including the:

  • Different types of inventory.
  • Benefits and challenges of inventory management.
  • Top seven manufacturing inventory management software.

Let’s jump in!

What is manufacturing inventory management?

Manufacturing inventory management is the process of sourcing, storing, and selling inventory in the manufacturing sector.  

It encompasses everything from tracking raw materials to monitoring finished products, ensuring a smooth process that meets customer demands. 

With a manufacturing inventory management system, you:

  • Speed up your inventory processes.
  • Reduce waste.
  • Increase profitability.

The difference between inventory and stock

Although people use the two terms interchangeably, inventory and stock have distinct meanings. 

Inventory refers to your items on hand, including raw materials. Conversely, stock pertains only to finished products ready for sale. 

Types of inventory

Understanding each inventory type is crucial to your manufacturing inventory management.

Raw materials

Raw materials are the unprocessed items you turn into finished goods. Effective inventory management for a small manufacturing business starts with keeping an accurate count of these essential components.

Work-in-progress (WIP)

As products move through the production line, they become works in progress. This inventory type represents items that are becoming finished products but haven’t gotten all the way there yet. To prevent bottlenecks, a robust manufacturing inventory tracking system ensures that WIP items stay organized and continue their path to completion.

Finished goods

At the final stage of your manufacturing process, products become finished goods, ready for sale or distribution. Proper inventory management ensures you’re storing, tracking, and dispatching items effectively to maximize profits and customer satisfaction.

Non-inventory items

Not all items in a manufacturing environment are meant for sale. Non-inventory items, such as maintenance tools or office supplies, play a supporting role. While they don’t directly contribute to production, tracking these items leads to smoother operations and improved organization.

Goods in transit

In the manufacturing industry, goods constantly move between locations. Whether it’s raw materials coming in or finished products going out, goods in transit are any inventory items on the move. Effective inventory management systems ensure you’re monitoring these items, enabling timely deliveries and reducing your risk of loss.

Inventory management challenges for manufacturing businesses

Inventory management comes with its fair share of challenges. Acknowledging these barriers before implementing software is crucial. Below are a few to have on your radar.

  • Demand forecasting: Accurately predicting future demand is tough, and errors lead to overstock or stockouts, both of which have negative financial implications.
  • Shrinkage: Inventory loss due to theft, damage, or mismanagement is detrimental to your cash flow.
  • Complex supply chains: Managing multiple suppliers, especially in a global context, creates tracking and quality control issues.
  • Quality control: Ensuring that the raw materials and finished products meet quality standards consistently is a persistent challenge.
  • Inventory valuation: Deciding on the best method (e.g., FIFO, LIFO) for inventory valuation can impact financial reporting and tax obligations.
  • Human error: Manual processes or data entry can introduce errors, leading to inventory discrepancies.
  • Regulatory compliance: Especially in industries like pharmaceuticals or food and beverage, adhering to regulations in inventory management is crucial and challenging.

What to look for in a manufacturing inventory management system

For any manufacturing business, finding an inventory management solution that’s cost-effective yet comprehensive is essential. Your manufacturing inventory management system should offer: 

  • Real-time tracking.
  • Intuitive reporting.
  • Scalability to adapt to evolving needs. 

Inventory management for small manufacturing business: Top 7 options

Here are your top seven software choices to help with your manufacturing inventory management.

1. SOS Inventory

Product shot of a SOS Inventory dashboard

Image credit: Insightful Accountant 

SOS Inventory is a comprehensive inventory management solution that integrates with QuickBooks Online. It’s well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses looking to get a handle on inventory control and order management.

Key features

  • Central dashboard with real-time inventory tracking.
  • Multi-location and serialized inventory.
  • Order management and fulfillment.

Limitations

  • Limited customization for unique workflows.
  • Only integrates with QuickBooks Online versions.

Pricing

SOS Inventory offers the following three pricing plans:

  • Companion: $59.95 per month with two users included. 
  • Plus: $119.95 per month with three users included.
  • Pro: $169.95 per month with five users included. 

You can buy additional users for these plans at $20 each monthly. SOS Inventory also offers an annual discount and a 14-day free trial.

2. Fishbowl

Fishbowl product dashboard

Image credit: Fishbowl

Fishbowl is a powerful manufacturing inventory management software that integrates well with QuickBooks. Its advanced tracking and forecasting give you a leg up on the competition.

Key features

  • Barcode scanning on your phone or tablet using the Fishbowl Go for iOS mobile app.
  • Inventory management across multiple warehouses with parts tracking, auto reorder points, automatic order creation, and more.
  • Optimized work order management.
  • Inventory requirement predictions based on sales trends.

Limitations

  • Limited reporting capabilities. 
  • Slow customer support.

Pricing

Fishbowl software starts at $4,395, which grants you permanent access with unlimited users. They also offer a free demo. 

You can request a demo or quote through Fishbowl’s website for exact pricing information.

3. NetSuite

Image credit: NetSuite

NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP for manufacturing designed to help you coordinate, control, and manage all your manufacturing operations.

Key features

  • Intelligent order management tool with reporting and analytics.
  • Procurement and job shop floor control.
  • Advanced lead tracking capabilities.
  • Marketing, sales, and customer service features.

Limitations

  • Costly for small businesses.
  • Challenging third-party integrations.
  • Limited reports.
  • Complex and has a steep learning curve.
  • Help resources need to be more consistent and complete.

Pricing

Your total cost depends on three main factors: The core platform, optional modules, and the number of users on your account. Base NetSuite pricing starts at $99 monthly per user on top of a $999 monthly licensing fee.

Note, this is a premium manufacturing inventory tracking system most small and mid-sized businesses can’t afford.

4. Katana Cloud Manufacturing

A screenshot of a Katana MRP dashboard.

Image credit: Katana MRP

Katana MRP is a manufacturing ERP that helps with end-to-end manufacturing processes. It simultaneously supports made-to-order (MTO) and made-to-stock (MTS) workflows.

Key features

  • Live inventory management.
  • Purchase order management.
  • Integrations with Zapier and an open API.

Limitations

  • Complex workflows require clunky workarounds.
  • Lacks essential features like calendars and Gantt charts.

Pricing

Katana MRP offers three subscription options:

  • Essential: $99 per month when billed annually.
  • Advanced: $299 per month when billed annually.
  • Professional: $799 per month when billed annually.

Katana also offers a free 14-day trial.

5. Deskera MRP

Product shot of a Deskera MRP dashboard.

Image credit: Deskera

Deskera MRP aims to optimize your manufacturing process while reducing costs. It’s popular for its comprehensive feature set and integrations with popular accounting, CRM, and HR systems.

Key features

  • Work order management and WIP tracking.
  • Demand forecasting and material requirement planning.
  • Multi-level bill of materials.
  • By-product and scrap management.
  • Machine management.

Limitations

  • Data exports are clunky and incomplete at times.
  • The platform needs to catch up on compliance requirements in some regions.
  • Customer service is slow, and help resources are limited.

Pricing

Deskera offers three pricing plans:

  • Growth: Starts at $1,000 per month annually for up to five users.
  • Mid Market: Starts at $2,000 per month annually for up to ten users.
  • Enterprise: Contact Deskera’s Sales team for a quote.

6. Striven

Image credit: Striven

Striven offers all-in-one solutions for all kinds of businesses, including those in the manufacturing industry.

Particularly helpful for small businesses, Striven simplifies your operations, from sending quotes to inventory control and management.

Key features

  • Customer, vendor, and career portals.
  • Project management with customer collaboration. 
  • Built-in accounting system. 
  • Lead tracking and management.
  • Instant reporting. 

Limitations

  • Limited integrations (i.e., does not integrate with QuickBooks). 
  • Performance issues and occasional crashes.
  • Complex due to many bells and whistles.

Pricing

Striven has three pricing plans:

  • $20 per user per month for up to 20 users, with $99 monthly hosting.
  • $15 per user per month for up to 50 users, with $299 monthly hosting.
  • $10 per user per month for unlimited users, with $499 monthly hosting.

7. Aquilon ERP

Screenshot of an Aquilon ERP dashboard.

Image credit: Capterra

Aquilon is an all-in-one ERP system with a broad user base. It offers financial, distribution, manufacturing, supply chain, and CRM functions.

Key features

  • Centralized dashboard with 360-degree visibility.
  • Audit trails and drill-down analytics.
  • Role-based permissions for better security.
  • Document sharing and storage.

Limitations

  • Reporting options are limited without customization.
  • Missing some popular features, like a real-time general ledger.
  • Payroll is lacking, with no ability to generate T4s.
  • Steep learning curve.

Pricing

Aquilon’s pricing starts at $120 per month. For a more accurate quote, you can contact their Sales team.

Strengthen your manufacturing inventory management with Method

You can’t be everywhere at once, nor should you be. That’s why you need a comprehensive business system that takes work off your team.

So meet Method, your next employee of the month! Method is the #1 lead-to-cash automation tool for manufacturers that use QuickBooks and Xero. Below is a preview of how Method lets you grow your business, not your stress. 

Use Method to automate your key processes, including:

  • Tracking customers’ transactions and interactions.
  • Invoicing and estimates.
  • Payment collection.
  • Customer support.
  • Follow-ups and reminder emails.

With advanced process automation and its two-way sync with your accounting software, Method refines your quote-to-cash cycle and strengthens your bottom line.

See how Method works wonders for manufacturers that use QuickBooks and Xero.

Image credit: Tima Miroshnichenko via Pexels

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7 best practices for warehousing and inventory management

Explore the top strategies in warehousing and inventory management to enhance efficiency in your manufacturing, wholesale, and distribution business.

7 best practices for warehousing and inventory management Read More »

There’s no doubt that warehousing and inventory management holds your manufacturing operations together. Keep reading for seven ways to: 

  • Simplify your warehousing process.
  • Gain control of your inventory systems. 
  • Get your business back on your side.

But first, let’s look at the purpose of warehouse and inventory management.

What is warehouse inventory management?

Warehouse and inventory management is more than just storing products. It ensures a seamless flow from production to your customer’s hands.

Effective warehousing and inventory management organizes the storage, movement, and record-keeping of products in a warehouse. It tracks goods from the moment they enter the warehouse until they’re dispatched to the appropriate distribution channels.

Warehousing and inventory management:

  • Ensures a clear record of every product, its location, and quantity.
  • Minimizes overstocking or stockouts.
  • Establishes consistent monitoring and evaluation protocols, including adjustments as market demands shift.

What do inventory management and warehouse management have in common?

Inventory and warehouse management are the backbone of successful manufacturing, wholesale, and distribution operations. 

Both focus on the efficient storage and movement of goods. Here’s what else warehouse and inventory management have in common:

  • Product tracking during storage, transit, or processing.
  • Storage optimization to safeguard product quality and access.
  • Demand forecasting through sales insights.
  • Waste management, whether it’s space, time, or resources.

However, inventory management zeroes in on product quantities, locations, and statuses. On the other hand, warehouse management dives into the operational aspects of the warehouse, such as:

  • Layout optimization.
  • Strategic labor management.
  • Equipment use and safety.

Push QuickBooks further than ever with Method.

Why warehouse inventory management matters

Warehouse inventory management is critical for several reasons:

  1. Customer satisfaction: Ensures products are available for quick dispatch to satisfy customer demand.
  1. Cost efficiency: Prevent the financial strain of excess inventory, misplacement costs, or losses from expired or compromised goods.
  1. Optimized space utilization: Well-managed inventory ensures that every square foot of the warehouse is effectively used, eliminating the need for unnecessary expansions or external storage solutions.
  1. Accurate data: Real-time inventory data helps you make informed decisions about product lines, purchasing, and sales promotions.
  1. Risk mitigation: Reduce potential hazards like theft, loss, or product obsolescence.

Understanding and effectively managing warehouse inventory is a crucial cog in the supply chain. It ensures you remain profitable, competitive, and responsive to your customers’ needs.

Best practices for warehousing and inventory management

Use the following strategies to optimize your operations and stand out in this increasingly competitive marketplace.

1. Do regular physical inventory checks

Periodic manual counts ensure that your system’s inventory matches the stock. This helps you:

  • Identify discrepancies.
  • Prevent stockouts.
  • Fix potential issues.

Physical checks are the best way to diagnose issues like theft or mislabeling.

2. Monitor product placement

Strategic product placement in the warehouse, based on demand and accessibility, speeds up the picking process. High-demand items should be easily accessible to reduce the time and effort needed to fulfill orders.

One way to speed up material gathering for the assembly line is to store components that are frequently used together adjacently.

3. Reevaluate stock levels

Regularly review your inventory levels to avoid overstocking or stockouts. Doing this optimizes storage space and ensures your capital isn’t tied up in excess stock. 

Take the example of a wholesaler of seasonal items, like winter apparel. The best time for them to review stock levels is in the summer to:

  • Avoid over-purchasing based on the previous year’s demand and forecasted growth.
  • Prevent missing potential sales opportunities.

4. Assess picking methods

Choosing the right picking method, whether wave, zone, or batch picking, is pivotal.

Your chosen method should align with your order profiles and warehouse layout for efficient order fulfillment.

For instance, a large distribution center might use zone picking for large orders, where each picker is assigned a specific area and only picks items in that zone.

5. Use cross-docking

Cross-docking in the distribution industry involves directly transferring products from inbound to outbound trucks with minimal storage in between. This practice:

  • Reduces storage needs.
  • Minimizes handling.
  • Speeds up delivery times.

Let’s assume you have an urgent production run in your manufacturing business. Once you receive the components for manufacturing, these are immediately sent to the assembly line. This is another way that cross-docking minimizes storage and handling times.

6. Work with a 3PL

Collaborating with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider strengthens your logistics as you access their specialized knowledge and infrastructure.

A wholesaler wanting to expand to new regional markets might partner with a 3PL familiar with that region’s distribution channels to avoid the challenges and costs of setting up a new distribution network.

3PL partnerships simplify warehouse and inventory management processes to let you focus on activities like sales and marketing.

7. Implement inventory management software

Inventory software has features that range from real-time tracking to predictive analytics. It automates, monitors, and optimizes your inventory tasks. The right solution offers:

  • Real-time visibility.
  • Forecasting tools.
  • Actionable insights.

Below is an example of inventory software’s impact on your business.

Let’s say you’re a product distributor using inventory software. You can use this tool to predict which products will likely be in demand based on historical data, market trends, and regional events. 

This insight helps you prepare, stock appropriately, and promptly meet your client’s needs.

Sick of hunting for spreadsheets when updating your QuickBooks data?

How to automate warehouse inventory management with Method

Overseeing every operational detail in manufacturing, wholesale, and distribution is impossible. Thankfully, software like Method gets you out of the weeds and into the driver’s seat. 

Below is a quick peek into how Method helps you gain control and grow with confidence. 

Beyond warehousing and inventory management, Method’s lead-to-cash automation:

  1. Eliminates double data entry between your accounting system and other tools with its real-time, two-way sync with QuickBooks and Xero.
  2. Takes routine tasks off your plate so you can focus on value-added activities.

See how Method gives you control and time back.

Image credit: DCStudio

A man in a dimly lit warehouse looking at inventory on a shelf.

Warehouse inventory control: Top 3 processes you need to automate

Is your warehouse inventory control getting out of hand? Check out this blog for the top 3 inventory processes you need to automate.

Warehouse inventory control: Top 3 processes you need to automate Read More »

Did you know that 43% of small businesses don’t track inventory? What’s worse is that this statistic only gets scarier when you realize the pivotal role that inventory control plays in running a successful business. In this blog, you’ll discover:

  • What warehouse inventory control is and why it’s essential.
  • Best practices for inventory control in warehouse.
  • The top three inventory processes to automate.

Let’s get into it!

What is warehouse inventory management?

Warehouse inventory management is a critical aspect of supply chain management that focuses on monitoring, controlling, and managing items stored in a warehouse. 

It encompasses a range of activities, from tracking products as they enter and leave the warehouse to ensuring optimal storage conditions and space utilization. 

Effective warehouse inventory control is not just about counting stock. Instead, it ensures that the right products are available at the right time and in the right quantities. Proper warehouse inventory management: 

  • Minimizes costs.
  • Reduces wastage.
  • Ensures timely order fulfillment.

What is the difference between warehouse management and inventory management?

Warehouse management and inventory management in warehouse facilities, though closely related, serve distinct functions in your supply chain. The main difference between warehouse and inventory management is that warehouse management focuses on the oversight and optimization of your warehouse. It ensures that you: 

  • Track inventory levels properly.
  • Efficiently store your products.
  • Are ready to dispatch anything in-warehouse. 

On the other hand, inventory management encompasses a broader scope, dealing with: 

  • The overall strategy of maintaining stock levels.
  • Forecasting demand.
  • Determining when and how much to reorder. 

In a nutshell, warehouse management is about the operational aspects of handling and storing items. In contrast, inventory management in warehouse facilities is more about strategic planning and decision-making related to stock levels, ensuring that you meet customer demand without overstocking or understocking.

Why is warehouse inventory management important?

Effective warehouse inventory management is more than just keeping tabs on stock levels. It’s a strategic approach that can significantly impact a business’s bottom line. 

Here are the primary reasons to hone your inventory management in warehouse.

1. Improves order fulfillment

Keeping a keen eye on your warehouse inventory ensures you always have the right products when orders come in. As a result, you experience:

  • Fewer backorders.
  • Reduced delays.
  • A smoother fulfillment process.

2. Improves productivity

Efficient warehouse inventory control simplifies your operations and improves staff productivity.

With more organized stock and optimized storage solutions, your warehouse staff pick, pack, and ship items quicker. As a result, you reduce errors and increase efficiency.

3. Faster shipping

With a well-managed inventory system, you also expedite your shipping process. 

With organized, accessible inventory, you can process more orders in less time, speeding up your dispatch times and deliveries to your customers.

4. Cost savings

With poor warehouse inventory control, you’re either overstocked or understocked — and both are costly. Holding too much stock ties up capital and increases storage costs, while too little leads to missed sales opportunities and unhappy customers. 

Careful, well-planned inventory management in warehouse strikes the right balance, reducing your holding costs and minimizing the risk of stockouts.

5. Increased customer satisfaction

At the heart of inventory control is the end customer. Your customers are more likely to have a positive shopping experience when you fulfill their orders accurately and ship them out promptly.

Boosting your customer satisfaction leads to:

  • Increased customer retention.
  • More sales through word of mouth referrals.
  • A better reputation for your business.

Best practices for warehouse inventory control

By integrating the following best practices into your inventory management in warehouse, you’ll ensure a seamless flow of goods, reduce errors, and maximize profitability. 

Use demand forecasting

Anticipate future sales patterns and stock needs by incorporating demand forecasting into your inventory control strategy.

By analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and seasonality, you can make informed decisions about the demand for your product. This tells you how much inventory to hold at a given time, reducing your risk of overstocking or stockouts.

Monitor and improve continuously

Regularly reviewing and refining your processes ensures you stay ahead of potential issues. You can identify areas for improvement and implement changes proactively when you continuously:

  • Collect data to map out sales trends. 
  • Analyze performance metrics and adjust your inventory accordingly.
  • Seek feedback from customers and industry experts. 

Implement warehouse inventory control checks

Routine checks and audits are essential to maintain accurate inventory levels. By periodically verifying physical stock against your records, you’ll: 

Automate warehouse inventory systems

Experts estimate that the global warehouse automation market will surpass $30 billion by 2026, and there’s a good reason for the surge in popularity.

From barcode scanning to advanced software solutions, implementing automation into your warehouse inventory management: 

  • Reduces manual errors and improves accuracy.
  • Speeds up processes and increases efficiency. 
  • Provides real-time insights into your stock levels, improving scalability.
  • Frees you from the chaos of your day-to-day operations.

Warehouse inventory control processes you can automate

It’s clear that automation is the best way to improve your warehouse inventory control, but what areas exactly should you look at? Here’s a look at some processes ripe for automation.

Layout optimization

A well-organized warehouse is the foundation of efficient operations. Automated layout optimization tools suggest the best arrangement of goods for your warehouse based on an analysis of your:

  • Storage space.
  • Product turnover rates.
  • Retrieval patterns.

Optimizing the layout of your warehouse through automation improves everything around inventory control and warehouse management, from finding products easier to creating a more intuitive workflow for your team.

Inventory tracking

Gone are the days of manual stocktaking and tallying. Modern inventory control systems offer automated tracking solutions, from RFID (radio frequency identification) tags to barcode scanners. 

Automated inventory tracking tools provide real-time updates on your: 

  • Stock levels.
  • Product locations. 
  • Movement histories. 

These updates ensure your inventory management in warehouse is accurate and up-to-date at all times.

Reporting and optimizing

An aspect of warehouse inventory control that people often overlook is the importance of making data-driven decisions and evolving inventory processes over time. 

Automated reporting tools compile vast amounts of data, from sales trends to stock turnover rates, and present them in digestible formats. As a result, you can spot patterns and anticipate challenges to optimize your inventory control in warehouse.

How does a warehouse inventory system work?

A warehouse inventory system is a comprehensive tool designed to enhance warehouse inventory control and management. It ensures you efficiently store, track, and manage your goods.

At its core, a warehouse inventory system integrates the various processes associated with inventory management in warehouse. 

It begins with the receipt of goods, where it logs, labels, and assigns your items to specific locations. 

As products move through your warehouse, whether you’re relocating or dispatching them, your warehouse inventory system updates in real-time, ensuring accurate stock levels at all times. 

Additional features of a warehouse inventory system are that it:

  • Analyzes your sales data and forecasts customer demand.
  • Automates repetitive inventory tasks.
  • Suggests reorder points to prevent stockouts. 

Automate your manufacturing workflows with Method

You can’t be everywhere in your warehouse at once, nor should you be. Luckily, I’m here to introduce you to Method, your next employee of the month! 

Method is the #1 process automation tool for manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors that use QuickBooks and Xero. With Method, you save time and aggravation through effective process automation.

By leveraging Method’s intuitive, drag-and-drop interface, you can effortlessly process reorders from your customers and forecast demand for your products. 

Manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors love Method because it:

  • Reduces manual data entry and minimizes errors.
  • Handles routine, monotonous tasks, improving employee morale.
  • Syncs your accounting data from QuickBooks or Xero in real-time.

Get your business back on your side with Method. See how.

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senior woman holding a tablet and smiling in a warehouse

QuickBooks Online inventory management: Everything you need to know

Learn everything you need to know about the capabilities of QuickBooks Online inventory management.

QuickBooks Online inventory management: Everything you need to know Read More »

Managing inventory often feels like a juggling act, especially if you’re a small business. It requires continuous monitoring and strategizing to avoid pitfalls like overstocks and stockouts. 

Luckily, QuickBooks Online inventory management simplifies this complex process. 

In this blog, you’ll explore QuickBooks Online inventory management, diving into: 

  • What it is.
  • Its capabilities.
  • How to make it work for your business. 

You’ll also learn about its limitations and how to overcome them with integrations.

Let’s get started!

Push QuickBooks Online further than ever with Method.

Does QuickBooks Online have inventory management?

A common question among business owners is, “Does QuickBooks Online have inventory management?” The answer is yes, QuickBooks Online offers inventory management tailored to small-to-medium businesses. It tracks your products and simplifies various inventory-related tasks.

Key features of QuickBooks Online inventory management include:

  • Automatic updates for inventory quantities upon sales and purchases.
  • Real-time insights into the value of your inventory.
  • Product and service tracking to monitor sales and shifting costs.

How to set up inventory management in QuickBooks Online

Step 1: Activate inventory tracking

Activating inventory tracking is the first step to effective QuickBooks Online inventory management. To do this: 

  1. Click on account settings by navigating to the gear icon in the upper-right corner. 
  2. Select “Account and settings” and click on “Sales” in the left-hand menu. 
  3. Check the box next to “Track quantity and price/rate” to activate inventory tracking. For items you need to track individually, turn on “Track inventory quantity on hand”.

With inventory tracking enabled, QuickBooks Online provides helpful information about stock levels via real-time insights. This helps you see what items need replenishment or if demand suddenly increases for a particular product.

QuickBooks also tracks costs associated with individual products and services, making it easier for you to identify which items are most profitable and adjust prices accordingly. This makes staying up to date with current stock levels easy.

Step 2: Add your inventory items

Once you activate inventory tracking, it’s time to add your inventory items: 

  1. Navigate to the gear icon and Click “Products and services” from the list of options. 
  2. Select the “New” button and enter details such as:
    1. Name.
    2. Description.
    3. Sales price.
    4. Cost.
    5. Quantity of items on hand. 
  3. You can also add the SKU (if applicable), preferred supplier, and purchasing information. 

Now, you can accurately track total costs and revenues associated with your products or services without manual work. Having an updated record of inventory items in QuickBooks lets you make informed financial decisions quickly, without spending time reconciling data.

Step 3: Monitor stock levels

Running out of supplies results in customer delays and loss of sales, so being proactive with your inventory is one of the best practices for inventory management. Low-stock alerts tell you when it’s time to restock, so you stay ahead of customer orders and avoid potential shortages.

To set up the low-stock alert function, choose a minimum quantity for each item in your inventory list and save your settings. Whenever an item falls below this minimum threshold, QuickBooks will send you an alert via email, or a push notification directly in the app. 

It also helps you identify when you have overstocked, as this causes dangers such as money tied up in unused goods and an increase in storage space you need.

Step 4: Restock items

When you set the alert in Step 4 of your QuickBooks Online inventory management process, QuickBooks notifies you when it’s time to restock. It helps take the guesswork out of hard-to-predict inventory needs.

Restocking is also fast and simple with QuickBooks — you can order directly through the platform to keep all your records in one place.

After you receive orders from your suppliers, you can adjust your quantity on hand in QuickBooks. This keeps your total inventory value accurate.

All this improves your expense tracking capabilities as it informs your decisions around short-term budget considerations and long-term profitability strategies.

Step 5: Generate inventory reports

Whether you’re a small business or a large retailer, reports are essential in monitoring the status of your inventory. They present important information, such as:

  • Your best sellers.
  • Products on hand.
  • Cost of goods.

With this easy-to-access information, you save time analyzing trends. Plus, you gain insights into which products are selling well and any areas for improvement.

Overall, QuickBooks’ reports help shape decisions around purchasing new stock (or replenishing existing stock) to maximize sales opportunities and reduce waste. 

Method CRM lets you run your business, your way.

Limitations of QuickBooks Online inventory management

Industry-specific tools

While QuickBooks Online offers general inventory tracking features suitable for a broad range of businesses, it lacks tools tailored to specific industries.

For example, manufacturing businesses need features like bill of materials and work order management, which aren’t available in QuickBooks Online. Retail companies with multiple sales channels need omnichannel inventory syncing areas, where QuickBooks Online is also not strong.

Advanced reporting

QuickBooks Online inventory management provides basic inventory reports, but if your inventory needs are complex, you might find that these reports lack:

  • Detailed backorder history.
  • Sales forecasting.
  • Intricate analytics on inventory turnover.
  • Lead times.
  • Supplier performance.

User limits

Depending on the version of QuickBooks Online you use, there are restrictions on the number of users you’re allowed. The Plus version allows up to 5 users, while the Advanced version allows up to 25 (with additional costs). 

This limitation poses challenges for larger organizations or those with multiple departments needing access to inventory data.

Customization

While QuickBooks Online offers customization capabilities, it nonetheless:

  • Lacks flexibility in creating custom fields or tags for inventory items.
  • Has difficulty supporting detailed item variations or attributes (like size, color, style, etc.) without workarounds.

Companies with specialized inventory needs will need to integrate QuickBooks Online with other software.

The solution: QuickBooks inventory management integrations

Does QuickBooks Online have inventory management? Now you know the answer is yes — but that’s just the beginning.

While QuickBooks Online inventory management offers a strong foundation, integrations make it a business powerhouse. 

A CRM bridges the gap between sales, customer management, and inventory. Method stands out as the best integrated solution for QuickBooks Online inventory management with its: 

  • Seamless two-way sync with QuickBooks Online. 
  • Enhanced customizability for your specific business needs. 
  • Holistic customer view, from sales interactions to product demand. 
  • Ability to simplify workflows by converting purchase orders to invoices and more.

Start elevating your inventory management with a free trial of Method.

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Top 5 QuickBooks inventory management software integrations

As your business grows, so does your inventory. Check out the top five QuickBooks inventory management software integrations to grow without having your inventory processes hold you back.

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Navigating the world of inventory management is daunting, especially as your business grows. QuickBooks has made strides in providing basic inventory management features, but sometimes, you need more. That’s where software integrations come in. 

In this blog, you’ll discover the top five QuickBooks inventory management software integrations that: 

  • Give you more control over your inventory.
  • Keep you better organized.
  • Boost efficiency and productivity.

Let’s jump in!

Sick of missing invoices and other data in QuickBooks?

What’s the difference between inventory management and supply chain management?

Inventory management and supply chain management are two crucial aspects of a successful business, but they serve different functions. 

Inventory management focuses on tracking and controlling the products within your company. On the other hand, supply chain management encompasses the entire journey of a product, from raw materials to the final delivery to your customer. 

When inventory management becomes complex

As your business grows, so does the complexity of your inventory management. Managing multiple products, suppliers, and warehouses becomes near-impossible on your own.

The more complex your inventory management, the more prone your business is to:

  • Human errors.
  • Inefficiencies in your process.
  • Lost sales opportunities. 

However, with the right strategies and QuickBooks inventory management software add-ons, you can keep things under control and overcome those growing pains with ease.

Does QuickBooks have inventory management?

Yes, QuickBooks does offer inventory management features, but it isn’t a dedicated tool. Using QuickBooks for inventory management tracks your:

  • Inventory levels.
  • Sales and orders.
  • Deliveries. 

That said, the depth of features varies depending on the version of QuickBooks you’re using but, at the end of the day, it’s primary focus is on your accounting. 

If you use QuickBooks Online or QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise, you can manage inventory from the “Products and Services” tab in the “Sales” section.

Image credit: QuickBooks

However, you need to add each item manually, which is tedious and especially difficult if your business handles many products. Also, QuickBooks’ inventory reporting capabilities are quite limited with only a handful of templates to choose from.

So, if you want to use QuickBooks for inventory management, you should also implement third-party QuickBooks inventory management software to make your processes easier and less time-consuming.

How to choose the best inventory software integration

Finding the right QuickBooks inventory management software will make you realize just how much you’ve been missing. But how do you evaluate one system over another?

When choosing your QuickBooks inventory management software integrations, consider factors like: 

  • Ease of use.
  • Scalability.
  • Real-time tracking and updates.
  • Automation features.
  • Compatibility with your existing systems. 

Additionally, look for software that offers robust customer support and has positive reviews from other people in your industry.

What are the benefits of integrating inventory software with QuickBooks?

The primary benefits of integrating QuickBooks inventory management software are that you can:

  • Get more advanced inventory management features. 
  • Automate time-consuming tasks.
  • Generate comprehensive and accurate financial reports.
  • Reduce your risk of errors. 

Ultimately, implementing QuickBooks inventory integrations leads to improved operational efficiency and better decision-making. 

Tired of entering data manually into QuickBooks Desktop?

Top 5 inventory management QuickBooks integrations

1. SOS Inventory

Product shot of a SOS Inventory dashboard

Image credit: Intuitive Accountant

First up is SOS Inventory, a comprehensive inventory management solution designed to integrate seamlessly with QuickBooks Online. It’s particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses looking for advanced inventory control and order management.

Key features

  • Real-time inventory tracking.
  • Multi-location and serialized inventory.
  • Order management and fulfillment.

Limitations

  • Steep learning curve for non-tech savvy users.
  • Limited customization options.
  • Doesn’t integrate with desktop versions of QuickBooks. 

Pricing

SOS Inventory offers the following three pricing plans:

  • Companion: $59.95 per month with 2 users included. 
  • Plus: $119.95 per month with 3 users included.
  • Pro: $169.95 per month with 5 users included. 

For all plans, you can buy additional users for an extra $20 each. Each plan also offers an annual discount and a 14-day free trial.

2. Cin7

Product shot of Cin7 dashboard

Image credit: Neil Patel

The next solution is Cin7, a robust inventory management platform known for its wide range of features, including POS, a B2B portal, and warehouse management. It’s designed to simplify operations and maintain accurate inventory records.

Key features

  • Inventory management.
  • B2B eCommerce portals.
  • Order management and fulfillment.
  • Integrated POS system.
  • Advanced reporting and forecasting.

Limitations

  • Can be overwhelming for small businesses.
  • Customer support is reportedly slow at times.
  • QuickBooks integration has occasional issues with syncing data and incorrect calculations of sales margins.

Pricing

Cin7 offer four pricing plans:

  • Standard: $325 per month with 5 users included.
  • Retailing:$550 per month with 8 users included.
  • Manufacturing: $650 per month with 8 users included.
  • Omni: Contact Cin7 for a quote. This plan has no user limit.

Cin7 offers a 14-day free trial to new users.

3. Acctivate

Product shot of an Acctivate dashboard with labels.

Image credit: Capterra

Acctivate is next on our list. It’s a powerful inventory management tool that integrates well with QuickBooks to improve your organization and efficiency.

Key features

  • Batch processing and barcoding.
  • Customer management and CRM.
  • Multi-channel order fulfillment.

Limitations

  • The user interface may seem outdated.
  • Initial setup is time-consuming.
  • Pricey for smaller businesses with tight budgets.

Pricing

Acctivate offers three pricing plans that use a one-time fee model:

  • Starter: $7,496 with 1 user included.
  • Professional: $13,496 with 5 users included.
  • Enterprise: $21,746 with 15 users included.

Additional users are available for each plan at an additional $750 each. Acctivate also offers “Baker’s Dozen” financing, where you can pay in monthly installments. Plus, they offer a 14-day free trial. 

4. inFlow

Product shot of an inFlow Cloud timeline

Image credit: The Ecomm Manager

The next top QuickBooks inventory management software is inFlow, a versatile inventory solution that caters to businesses of all sizes. It’s popular for its range of features, from sales and purchase orders to inventory tracking and reporting.

Key features

  • Comprehensive inventory management and tracking.
  • Sales and invoicing.
  • Barcode generator.
  • B2B portal.
  • Reporting and analytics.

Limitations

  • Users have reported a lack of in-depth customization for reports. 
  • Limited third-party integrations.
  • The interface is not very friendly on desktop or mobile.

Pricing

inFlow offers four pricing plans:

  • Entrepreneur: $110 per month with 2 users.
  • Small Business: $279 per month with 5 users.
  • Mid-Size: $549 per month with 10 users.
  • Enterprise: $1,319 per month with 25 users.

inFlow offers a 20% discount on annual subscriptions and a 14-day free trial. Custom plans are also available upon request.

5. Vend

Product shot of a Vend retail dashboard, on a tablet and mobile device

Image credit: Vend

The final QuickBooks inventory management software integration to have on your radar is Vend. It’s a cloud-based solution designed to help retailers manage their business with ease.

Key features

  • Integrated POS system.
  • Real-time inventory management.
  • Customer loyalty program.

Limitations

  • Limited features for advanced inventory needs.
  • Some users report occasional system slowdowns.

Pricing

Vend offers four pricing plans:

  • Lean: $89 per month.
  • Standard: $149 per month.
  • Advanced: $269 per month.
  • Enterprise: Contact Vend for a quote.

Vend offers a sizable discount on annual subscriptions and a 14-day free trial. You can also add additional users to all the above plans for an extra $59 each.

QuickBooks inventory gets you started, Method helps you grow

Method is the #1 process automation tool for QuickBooks users. It takes care of the work you can do but don’t want to by automating key workflows such as:

  • Invoicing and estimates.
  • Payment collection.
  • Customer support.
  • Follow-ups and reminder emails.

Whether it’s contact management, estimate approvals, or collecting payments, Method automates your quote to cash cycle to strengthen your customer experience and internal operations — all while integrating in real-time with QuickBooks.

Key takeaways

It’s important to acknowledge the complexities that arise with inventory management as your business grows, and how QuickBooks integrations help you address those challenges. 

Effective inventory management is crucial for business success, and leveraging the right tools  gives you a leg up over the competition. Using QuickBooks for inventory management on its own is nothing compared to the robust inventory management system you’re able to build with integrations.

Equipped with this list of the top five QuickBooks inventory management software integrations, you can begin simplifying your inventory processes right away and make life a whole lot easier for everyone.

See why inventory-based businesses on QuickBooks love of Method.

Image credit: DC Studio via Adobe Stock

Profile of a customer called Amy Sanford showing a red circle around pending order requests

Why repeat purchases are a must-have feature in your Method account

Say goodbye to complicated repurchasing and hello to one-click repeat purchases for your customers!

Why repeat purchases are a must-have feature in your Method account Read More »

Gone are the days of complicated repurchasing, as Method brings exciting news! 

With the latest product update, Method offers a new approach to reorders — directly from your customer portal. This is a breath of fresh air to Method users and their customers because the repeat purchases feature offers:

  • One-click repeat purchases for your customers.
  • More repeat business for you. 
  • Improved insights on purchase behavior.

What’s new

Previously, you were required to “make a copy” of a transaction for any repeat purchases from your customers. This was often a tedious process as transactions were difficult to locate. So, we took this as a challenge to create the best self-serve experience for repurchases.

Here are the top three things to look forward to. Let’s dive in!

1. Effortless repeat purchases for your customers

Say goodbye to struggling with copying orders manually. From the customer portal, your customers can now click the “create order request” button on the bottom-right of:

  • Invoices.
  • Sales receipts.
  • Previously purchased items.   
A dialogue box with text informing customers that their order request has been sent successfully.

Once a reorder is requested from your customer, , you get a notification in your inbox to approve or reject it.

2. More repeat business for you

Once you approve the repeat purchases, sit back and watch the repeat business rain in.

This feature is a delightful reminder to your customers why they chose you. They’ll love how easy it is to buy the items they need from you repeatedly. Need a pause on repeat purchases? You’ve got complete control here as well. Toggle this in the preferences settings of your invoices and sales receipts.

The 'Opportunities' screen showing a table with order requests including dates, company name, and amounts.

3. Better insights on customer behavior

Method makes it simple to see how likely it is that customers will repurchase from you. 

Since the repeat ourchases are differentiated from first-time purchases in the Opportunities app, you get a clear picture of:

  • Your top-selling items.
  •  Whether your customers stick around. 

Reorder FAQs

How do I get the reorder feature?

The reorder feature will be automatically added to your Method account if you haven’t customized your portal before. Make sure to enable it in your “Opportunity preferences.” If you have customized your portal, please reach out to your Customer Success Manager to turn the feature on for you. 

Can customers reorder services from my company?

Currently, the reorder function is limited to repurchasing products. Since reordering services requires scheduling, this workflow still needs to be developed on our end.  

Can I set item level preferences for reordering?

At the moment, reorder preference settings can only be done at the Opportunities app level, which applies across all transactions. 

Depending on demand, future updates may allow preferences to be applied at the customer, individual transaction, and/or item level.

Can I make net new orders?

At present, you can only make repeat purchases for items that you have already bought. Stay tuned for future updates! 

Keep your customers happy with effortless repeat purchases. Sign in to Method to get started.

Guide on using QuickBooks’ purchase orders feature

This blog shows you how to create a purchase order in QuickBooks with a few simple steps.

Guide on using QuickBooks’ purchase orders feature Read More »

One of the great things about QuickBooks is that it gives a great starting toolset for driving sales and kick-starting growth. Whether you’re starting as a small business, or growing into a bigger company, QuickBooks’ purchase orders feature is a valuable tool. 

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a purchase order in both QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Desktop.

Let’s dive in.

Need an easier way to keep your QuickBooks data up-to-date?

Can QuickBooks create purchase orders?

Yes, you can create purchase orders in QuickBooks Online (QBO) and QuickBooks Desktop (QBD). See our video below for a step-by-step guide – or skip to the next section of this guide for a more thorough walkthrough:

How to create a purchase order in QuickBooks

QuickBooks Online

To make a purchase order in QBO, just follow these steps:

Step 1: Activate the purchase order feature

To use QuickBooks’ purchase order feature, you’ll need to turn it on first. Here’s how:

  1. Go to “Settings” and select “Account and Settings”.
  2. Click on the “Expenses” tab. In the “Purchase Orders” section, click the edit icon.
  3. Turn on the “Use Purchase Orders” option.

Once done, just save your changes and go to the next step.

Step 2: Create purchase orders and send

Just follow these steps to create purchase orders on QuickBooks:

  1. Click “+New” and select “Purchase Order”.
  2. Choose your supplier from the dropdown menu, review the mailing address, and add the items you want to purchase.
  3. If you’re shipping directly to the customer, confirm the shipping address.
  4. Save the purchase order for later or send it immediately to your supplier.

If you select save the purchase order for later, you can find it under “Expenses.” As soon as you’re ready, click “Send” in the action column.

Step 3: Update purchase order status

Once you create a purchase order, its status defaults to “Open”.

After your supplier accepts the purchase order, you can add it to an expense or bill to finalize the transaction. QuickBooks Online will then automatically update the status to “Closed”.

Step 4: Monitor open purchase orders

If you need visibility of your open purchase orders, you can track them using the following:

  1. Navigate to “Business overview” and click “Reports”.
  2. Then, run one of the following reports:
  • Open Purchase Order List.
  • Open Purchase Order Detail.
  • Purchases by Product/Service Detail.
  • Purchases by Supplier Detail.

QuickBooks reports are an easy way to monitor your open purchase orders, which gives you a clear view of your pending transactions.

QuickBooks Desktop

Step 1: Create a purchase order

To start the purchase order process in QuickBooks Desktop, you’ll need to switch it on first:

  • Go to Edit > Preferences > Items & Inventory.
  • Check the “Inventory and purchase orders are active” box.

Then:

  1. Navigate to “Suppliers” and select “Create Purchase Orders”. 
  2. Use the dropdown to select the vendor, fill in the necessary fields, and add the specific items you wish to order.
  3. Save your changes.

Wish you could get more from QuickBooks? Method makes it possible.

Step 2: Monitor open purchase orders

To view all open purchase orders:

  1. Go to Lists > Customer & Supplier Profiles > Purchase Orders and change the “Open Purchase Orders” filter.
  2. Alternatively, create a report of your open purchase orders by navigating to Reports > Purchases > Open Purchase Orders.

Step 3: Log received items

Make sure you record the goods received following a purchase order. The transaction you use depends on when you pay for the items.

Your options are:

  • Preparing an item receipt if you’ll be billed later.
  • Creating a bill if you were billed upon receiving the goods.
  • Logging a check or credit card charge if you paid upon receiving the items.

Once your customer receives everything on the purchase order, QuickBooks will mark that purchase order as “Received in Full”.

Gear QuickBooks for growth

QuickBooks has lots of tools to help with managing your finances. That’s why it’s a great source of truth about your business’ health. But as you grow, QuickBooks might not be able to keep up, at least not on its own. 

What if, for example, you want to add more users to make purchase orders and send invoices? 

In theory, it can work, but then again, you’ll be giving more people access to your finances. Your accountant will likely push back, as it raises risk for you and your business. It could also lead to data entry errors, gaps in information, and other problems. 

So, you need a way to give more people in your company the ability to manage key tasks that will tie back to your QuickBooks data, but without exposing QuickBooks.

The best solution here would be to build on top of QuickBooks. With Method, a QuickBooks CRM, you can give your team the ability to create purchase orders outside QuickBooks while still ensuring these new orders sync with your QuickBooks data. 

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. See our video demo to see how Method extends your QuickBooks data to your sales, customer services, marketing, and other tasks.

FAQs on QuickBooks purchase orders

Can you create purchase orders in QuickBooks Online?

Yes! You can create a purchase order in QuickBooks Online. With a few simple steps, you can generate a purchase order, send it to your vendor, and track its status.

How to convert purchase order to invoice in QuickBooks?

Once you’ve received the goods or services from the vendor, you can easily convert a purchase order into an invoice. Don’t delete the purchase order to ensure accurate records in QuickBooks and simplify the billing process.

Instead, select “Copy to Bill” from the respective Purchase Order page. Review the vendor and item information and hit “Save”.Gain control.

What are purchase orders vs. invoices?

When ordering something, the buyer will make a purchase order and send it to their vendor to make sure they get exactly what they need. The vendor will then make an invoice to make sure they get paid for whatever the customer ordered. 

Grow with confidence. Try Method for free today.

Image credit: DCStudio via freepik

Young man looking at a laptop screen and smiling

How to automate your purchase order to invoice process

Learn everything you need to know about automating the purchase order to invoice process in this blog.

How to automate your purchase order to invoice process Read More »

Converting purchase orders to invoices is tricky and downright annoying. But it’s critical for both your business and suppliers. Many companies get stuck in a cycle of manual paperwork that takes up valuable time and resources. 

Along with the strain on administrative processes, matching invoices with purchase orders is also challenging. But with the right solution, you can easily automate your purchase order to invoice process to save time while improving accuracy.

This blog will cover everything you need to know about purchase orders including how to invoice a purchase order and how to match invoice with purchase order. You’ll also learn about the best solution to automate the process.

Let’s get started!

What is a purchase order?

A purchase order is an essential legal document for any business or individual making a purchase from a vendor. It outlines the goods and services that a buyer wants to receive from a supplier. 

You can clearly define your needs and expectations by creating a detailed purchase order. This helps ensure that both parties are on the same page about the specifics around the transaction, such as:

  • Price.
  • Quantity.
  • Payment terms.
  • Delivery details.

What should you include in a purchase order?

When creating a purchase order, it’s vital to include specific details so the supplier can accurately fulfill their obligations. Here’s what you should have in your purchase order:

  • Your name and contact information.
  • Your supplier’s name and contact information.
  • What goods or services you require. 
  • The quantities you require. 
  • A description of the goods or services to avoid confusion.
  • A timeline to specify when the order was placed and when you need it.

The importance of purchase orders

Ordering goods or services

Issuing a purchase order creates a contractual obligation — on the seller to deliver the goods or services and on the buyer to pay for them. 

It formalizes the purchasing process so that you have a clear outline of the expectations and details around the transaction.

Purchase orders remove any confusion about who is responsible for what to make sure that orders get delivered on time.

Purchase order approval

Before purchase orders are issued, they need to go through an approval process. This typically involves reviewing the proposed purchase against your company’s budget and objectives. 

The approval process ensures that your company is using its budget efficiently and reduces the risk of fraud. 

Order tracking

Purchase orders also help you keep track of what you’ve ordered. When you create a purchase order using software like QuickBooks, it’s assigned a unique reference number that you can use to track its status. See what that looks like below.

This helps resolve disputes that arise and is especially useful when you’re planning budgets or auditing. 

The reference number on a purchase order matches incoming invoices, so you only ever pay for goods or services that you’ve ordered.

Inventory management

Tracking the products or services you order through purchase orders gives you foresight into the inventory you’ll have in the future.

You can use this information to manage your warehouse space and schedule production runs. Most importantly, you can make sure you always have what your customers want. 

Why do companies need purchase orders and invoices?

Purchase orders and invoices are crucial for companies to keep track of their money. 

A purchase order creates a legal agreement for a sale before it happens.

It protects both the buyer and seller by putting in writing what’s being bought and sold and for how much.

A bill or invoice comes after you have the goods or services delivered requesting payment from the buyer. It’s especially important for managing accounts receivable.

When you use purchase orders and invoices together, it provides a clear audit trail of purchasing activities. You only ever pay for the goods or services you agree to.

This matching process is key in preventing the following:

  • Overpayments.
  • Duplicate payments.
  • Paying for unreceived goods or services.

The difference between 2-way and 3-way purchase order matching

Purchase order matching is critical for validating transactions and ensuring you only pay for what you’ve ordered and received. The most common ways to do it are by 2-way and 3-way purchase order matching. 

In a 2-way match, you compare two documents: the purchase order and the invoice.

The goal of 2-way matching is to confirm that the details on the invoice match the purchase order. If there are any discrepancies, you need to resolve them before any payments are made.

A 3-way match involves an additional document: the receipt or delivery note. 

In a 3-way match, you first compare the details on the receipt with the purchase order to ensure that the correct goods or services were delivered. Then, you match the invoice to the purchase order and receipt to confirm the billing is accurate.

A 3-way match provides an extra level of control compared to a 2-way match. By involving the receipt, you confirm that the billing is correct, which is more difficult in a 2-way match.

Challenges of manual purchase order matching

There are several pain points associated with manual purchase order matching. 

For one, checking each line item across multiple documents is time-consuming, especially for large or complex orders. It also requires serious attention to detail, which slows down your purchase order to invoice process. 

Also, tracking down the source of discrepancies is difficult, especially if different people or departments processed the documents involved.

Another challenge of manual purchase order matching is that it’s more prone to error. Mistakes often result in incorrect or delayed payments, negatively affecting your relationships with suppliers and your purchase order to invoice process.

Not to mention, without a dedicated purchase order to invoice process in place, tracking and reporting on the status of purchase orders and invoices is challenging. Failing to have a system in place obstructs visibility, making it difficult to identify inefficiencies or fraud.

Finally, as your company grows, so do your number of transactions and challenges. Choosing an automated system that can keep up with your company’s needs and scale with you is essential.

The solution: Automate your purchase order to invoice process with Method

Method is the top choice for QuickBooks and Xero users looking to automate their purchase order to invoice process. With Method, you simplify your purchase order matching process to reduce errors and save time. 

Here’s how Method makes your life easier: 

  • Automated creation of purchase orders, invoices, and receipts, eliminating tedious manual work.
  • Real-time syncing with both QuickBooks and Xero so your data is always up-to-date.
  • Scales with your business and its transaction volumes without missing a beat.

With Method, you can say goodbye to the challenges that come with manual purchase order matching challenges and focus on growing your business.

See how Method transforms your purchase order to invoice process.

Image credit: Svitlana via Adobe Stock

side view of a laptop with a Method invoice on the screen

How to customize invoices in QuickBooks

Learn how to customize invoices in QuickBooks, from adding a logo to changing invoice details.

How to customize invoices in QuickBooks Read More »

QuickBooks lets you create custom invoices that have the look and feel you want. But the ways to personalize your invoices in QuickBooks aren’t exactly obvious. 

This blog will teach you how to customize your invoices in QuickBooks, from adding a logo to changing invoice details. We’ll also go over some common issues to watch for.  

Let’s get started!

What are custom QuickBooks invoice templates?

Custom QuickBooks invoice templates are personalized designs you can use for your invoices in QuickBooks. You can use QuickBooks’ pre-designed invoice templates or create your own.

These templates let you tailor invoice elements like:

  • Layout.
  • Logos.
  • Fonts.
  • Colors.

Some of the main benefits of learning how to customize invoice in QuickBooks include:

  • Presenting professional and consistent documents.
  • Staying consistent with your brand identity.
  • Promoting clarity and readability for your customers.
  • Ensuring all essential financial information is included.

Changing your invoice template layout in QuickBooks

The first thing to do when learning how to customize invoice in QuickBooks is change the template layout. 

By clicking “Layout Designer”, you’ll find plenty of options to design and personalize your custom QuickBooks invoice template. 

When the “Layout Designer” page opens, you’ll notice soft green boxes — these represent where a printed envelope would fit. This feature is essential if you’re mailing windowed envelopes, as it ensures a proper fit.

You can also rearrange other invoice components to create a unique layout.

Here are some examples of components you can shift around to tailor your invoices:

  • Text boxes.
  • Payment terms.
  • Item descriptions.
  • Images.

Next, let’s learn how to customize invoice in QuickBooks!

How to customize invoice in QuickBooks

Based on our observations, learning how to customize invoice in QuickBooks enhances your branding and makes documents clearer for your clients.

Here’s a step-by-step tutorial with written instructions below for reference:

Step 1: Launch QuickBooks and open your company file.

Step 2: Navigate to the “Customers” menu from the top menu bar and choose “Create Invoices.”

Step 3: Click on the “Formatting” tab at the top of the “Create Invoices” window. 

Step 4:  From the drop-down menu, select “Manage Templates.” 

Step 5: Click on the template you want to modify and click “OK.”

Step 6: The “Basic Customization” window will appear after choosing a template. Here you can change the visual elements of your invoice.

Step 7: For advanced options, click “Additional Customization.” This lets you tailor the header, columns, footer, and more on your custom QuickBooks invoice template.

Step 8: Preview your customizations. If you’re satisfied, click “OK” to save the changes.

From now on, when you create an invoice, you can select your customized template from the template drop-down menu at the top of the invoice screen. 

Common issues to watch out for

Now that you’ve learned how to customize invoice in QuickBooks, you’re ready to add some personal touches. That said, over time, we found that here are some common issues you should be wary of:

Alignment and spacing: Uneven spacing or alignment makes invoices look messy. Ensure that all elements in your invoice are properly aligned. 

Inconsistent branding: Your invoice should reflect your brand. Be consistent with logos, colors, and fonts in all your documents.

Color choices: While it’s good to have colors that match your brand, using too many or overly bright colors can distract from the content. It’s best to stick to a simple color scheme.

Legal requirements: Depending on your location, you may have to include legally required information on your custom QuickBooks invoice templates. Be sure to check your local laws.

Printing issues: What looks good on  a screen doesn’t always translate well to paper. Always do a print preview and, if possible, a test print.

Saving changes: Forgetting to save your changes is a common issue. After customizing, always click “OK” to save your custom QuickBooks invoice templates.

How to add logo to QuickBooks invoice

Our findings show that adding your company logo is one of the best ways to incorporate branding into your invoices. 

Here are the steps to do it:

Step 1: Go to the “Customers” menu and click “Create Invoices.” Then navigate to the “Formatting” tab and select “Manage Templates.” Select the one you want to modify from the available templates. 

Step 2: In the Basic Customization window, tick the checkbox labeled “Use logo.” A window will appear where you can upload your logo. Click “Select Logo” and browse your computer for the appropriate file.

Step 3: QuickBooks automatically resizes your logo to fit, but you can manually adjust its size and placement if needed. 

Logo upload feature in the basic customization window of QuickBooks template
Image credit: QBK Accounting

Repositioning and resizing your logo

You can reposition and resize your logo by clicking and dragging it.

You can also use the sizing handles around the logo to adjust its dimensions. Make sure it aligns with the other elements of your invoice.

Can I add additional business information to accompany my logo?

We have found from using this product that you can accompany your logo with important business information. 

In the “Basic Customization” window, there are options to include your company’s name, address, phone number, and more. 

You can position these details around or below the logo as you like for a polished look.

How to change your company name on a QuickBooks invoice

Through our practical knowledge, if your company undergoes a name change, it’s crucial to update this information in your software as soon as possible.

To update your company name in QuickBooks:

Step 1: In your settings (gear icon), choose “Account and settings.”

Step 2: Select “Company”, then “✎ Edit” in the “Company name” section.  

Step 3: If your company’s legal name is the same as the company name you inputted, select the “Same as company name” checkbox. Otherwise, enter the legal name in the “Legal name” field. 

Step 4: Click “Save” and “Done” to save your changes. 

Image credit: Connectier

Enhance your custom QuickBooks invoice templates with Method

Method is the perfect solution for personalizing your invoices. The software boasts a powerful two-way sync with QuickBooks and key features like:

  • Customer portals that let customers view and manage their invoices independently.
  • Drag-and-drop customization to tailor your documents.
  • Custom fields to add specific details to your invoices.

QuickBooks gets you started. See how Method helps you grow.

Image credit: Mikebita via Adobe Stock 

Blonde man sipping on a mug while looking at a screen that displays a QuickBooks Online invoice template

Custom form styles in QuickBooks Online: Everything you need to know

Learn how to create form styles in QuickBooks Online to improve your customer experience.

Custom form styles in QuickBooks Online: Everything you need to know Read More »

9 out of 10 marketers agree that personalization increases profitability. So, it’s a good idea to customize your forms to reflect your brand and personalize your customer experience.  

QuickBooks Online is a comprehensive accounting software that helps businesses simplify and manage their finances. But did you know that it also has customizable forms? 

QuickBooks Online custom form styles let you personalize your documents with the look and feel you want.

In this blog, you’ll learn:

  • What custom form styles QuickBooks Online are. 
  • What you can personalize in QuickBooks Online. 
  • Why you should bother with QuickBooks Online custom forms. 
  • How to create custom form styles in QuickBooks Online. 

You’ll also learn about the best tool to help you with personalization. 

Let’s get started!

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What are custom form styles in QuickBooks Online?

Custom form styles in QuickBooks Online are customization options that allow you to change the appearance and layout of your transaction forms, such as:

With QuickBooks Online forms customization, you can integrate your business’ branding into your transaction forms. 

You can also tailor forms to your specific needs. For example, you might want to arrange the elements in your invoice differently than in your sales receipt. QuickBooks Online forms customization lets you choose from different invoice templates.

QuickBooks Online custom forms reflect professionalism and give your clients clarity by organizing the information and emphasizing essential details.

What can you personalize in QuickBooks Online?

Drawing from our experience, you’ll want to take advantage of QuickBooks Online custom forms’ flexibility. Here are some ways to personalize your forms:

  • Add your logo to give forms a professional look and reinforce your brand. 
  • Use your brand colors and fonts that are consistent with its aesthetic. 
  • Use QuickBooks template invoice custom fields to add information specific to your business. 
  • Include an invoice number for tracking and specify the date of issue.
  • Outline your payment terms, like due dates and late payment policies.
  • Include personalized messages and space for physical signatures.
QuickBooks invoice template showing an example of design customization options for a company called Long success
Image credit: QuickBooks

A little customization goes a long way in improving your brand reputation and customer experience.

QuickBooks Online custom forms: Why bother?

The importance of using custom form styles in QuickBooks Online extends beyond just visuals. Here’s why you should bother with custom form styles QuickBooks Online:

Branding consistency: QuickBooks Online forms customization ensures a consistent identity for your customers.

Improved communication: Well-structured and customized forms make it easy for customers to understand information.

Customer satisfaction: Detailed and professional-looking forms enhance customer satisfaction and experience.

Streamlined processes: Since QuickBooks Online forms customization lets you incorporate information tailored to your business processes, it simplifies your operations.

Flexibility: You can tweak forms according to specific needs and make changes so they always align with your business requirements.

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QuickBooks Online forms customization: Where to go

So you’ve learned about the advantages of customization and you’re ready to harness the power of custom form styles in QuickBooks Online. Here’s where to go next. 

How to create custom form styles in QuickBooks Online

You’ve learned that custom form styles in QuickBooks Online give your business documents a cohesive and credible image. Here’s how to navigate the custom form styles QuickBooks Online offers, step by step:

Step 1: Log in to QuickBooks Online. Navigate to the “Custom Form Styles” section and click the gear icon in the upper right-hand corner. This opens the Settings menu.

Step 2: In the “Your Company” section, select “Custom Form Styles.”

Settings drop down menu in QuickBooks showing custom form styles selected for a company
Image credit: QuickBooks

Step 3: Click on the “New style” button. Choose the form you want to customize by clicking “Invoice,” “Estimate,” or “Sales Receipt.”

Step 4: In the custom style editor, name your style at the top of the page to identify it easily in the future.

Step 5: Use the different tabs to customize the design aspects, message, and content of your form. 

Arrow pointing to Invoice template design in QuickBooks template customization window
Image credit: QuickBooks

Step 6: Preview your style, and when you’re satisfied with your customization, click the “Done” button to save your custom form style.

Now, when you create a new transaction, like an invoice or sales receipt, you can choose your custom form style from the “Customize” drop-down menu.

Remember that QuickBooks Online might limit the number of custom form styles you can create depending on your subscription plan, so make sure to check your plan details if you run into any issues.

Enhance your personalization with Method — the #1 automation tool for QuickBooks users

Method CRM is the best tool for QuickBooks users to take forms like invoices to the next level

It seamlessly integrates with QuickBooks and elevates personalization with these key features:

  • Drag-and-drop customization to tailor your forms to specific needs.
  • Real-time sync with QuickBooks so your records are always accurate and up to date.
  • 360-degree customer views empower you to create highly personalized forms that resonate with your clients’ preferences.

See how you can let Method do for you what pens, paper, and sticky notes just can’t.

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