All companies that deal with inventory use a supply chain, from small businesses to enterprises.

A well-oiled and efficient supply chain is critical for manufacturing companies who wish to compete in today’s fast-paced market. 

This article will discuss the facets of a supply chain for manufacturing and how digitized supply chain management (SCM) solutions can help with optimization.

What is a supply chain?

A supply chain is the network of companies and individuals involved in a product’s lifecycle. That includes everything from the raw materials to the delivery of the finished product to the customer.

Supply chain operations begin with the customer ordering a product. 

In its basic form, the links on the supply chain from beginning to end are:

1. Sourcing of the raw materials from suppliers.
2. Manufacturing the materials into basic parts.
3. Assembling the basic parts into a finished product.
4. Selling the finished product to the customer or end users.
5. Delivering the product to customers or end users.

What are the main supply chain models?

There are several business models for supply chains. But all share two main goals: efficiency and responsiveness, with the end goal being customer satisfaction.

Each model has its own approach to achieving those goals. 

Choosing which supply chain model is best for a company largely depends on its goals and specific needs based on the industry.

The main supply chain models are:

• Continuous flow model — Best for established companies that produce the same products consistently.
• Fast chain model — Best for companies whose products depend on trends, such as fashion.
• Efficient chain model — Best for highly competitive markets where pricing is key.
• Flexible model — Best for companies with sporadic production, such as seasonal products.

Now let’s take a closer look at the supply chain for manufacturing.

Supply chain for manufacturing

A product’s lifecycle starts with raw materials and ends when the finished goods reach the consumer.

The manufacturing company is the middleman in this lifecycle.

Upstream operations are the steps leading up to manufacturing in the supply chain. In turn, downstream operations are the steps further down the supply chain manufacturing process.

Upstream operations for manufacturers involve sourcing raw materials through suppliers or vendors. That includes:

• Finding and evaluating suppliers.
• Developing quality standards for the materials.
• Ensuring correct quantities are purchased on time. 

After the manufacturer has converted the raw materials into a product ready to sell, the downstream operations come into play.

Those operations involve distributing the finished product to the consumer via wholesalers, distributors, or retailers.

As there are many moving parts, incorporating software for manufacturing would help companies improve the flow of goods and manufacturing capabilities.

Supply chain manufacturing process

The supply chain manufacturing process requires careful planning and managing all parts of the supply chain.

Let’s now look at the main processes involved in a manufacturing supply chain.

1. Planning: In this stage, companies develop a strategy that addresses how their products will satisfy the needs and demands of the customer. The main focus is on developing a system that will generate maximum profit.
2. Sourcing: This stage focuses on developing relationships with suppliers. Dependable suppliers are instrumental in maximizing the productivity of manufacturing operations. This stage also includes planning different methods for shipping, delivery, and payment of the raw materials.
3. Production: This stage consists of the design, production, testing, packing, and delivery of the product. It also provides companies with essential data for determining quality levels, productivity, and production output.
4. Delivery: This is the logistics phase, where delivery planning happens once orders are accepted. Establishing warehouses, choosing carriers, and setting up an invoicing system are included in this stage.
5. Returns: The final stage in the supply chain manufacturing process involves dealing with the return of a defective product. This stage is crucial to setting flexible and efficient supply networks for handling returned products. This stage also requires responding to customer complaints and queries through a customer service department. 

Advantages of manufacturing supply chain management

Manufacturing companies require highly optimized supply chains to get ahead of the curve. Let’s look at some benefits of effectively managing the supply chain for manufacturing.

Take a holistic approach to transformation to capture end-to-end value

Efficient manufacturing supply chain management helps businesses capture value across the entire supply chain.

It lets manufacturing companies identify potential problems throughout the supply chain before they become real issues, allowing for better allocation of resources.

It also ensures continuous improvement of manufacturing processes and quality production.

Transform manufacturing processes for better productivity

By efficiently managing the supply chain for manufacturing, businesses reduce costs, optimize performance, and maximize customer satisfaction.

By leveraging supply chain networks, manufacturers can access improved visibility across their supply chains.

This also lets them make better decisions about supply availability and production timelines to create a streamlined supply chain process.

Boost operational health by identifying skill gaps and building capabilities

A supply chain management system can provide visibility into a manufacturing operation’s demand, supply, and capacity.

This will enable you to track personnel skills and identify areas where training or additional personnel may be needed to meet supply goals.

By developing capabilities in your supply chain, you can remain competitive and improve your overall operational health.

Foster a quality culture to create competitive advantage

Implementing supply chain management in manufacturing processes helps create a quality culture focused on customer satisfaction, cost savings, and product innovation.

This helps you gain a competitive advantage by providing superior services and products.

Leverage digital and autonomous supply chain opportunities

Digital supply chains let manufacturers monitor supply, demand, and capacity in real-time, resulting in better decision-making and faster reactions to market changes.

Autonomous supply chain processes allow for better inventory accuracy, cost savings, and improved customer service.

By leveraging the power of technology, manufacturers can also optimize their supply chain operations for greater efficiency and supply reliability.

Supply chain management vs business logistics management

The terms supply chain management and business logistics management are often used interchangeably.

While both refer to management in a supply chain, they target different aspects of SCM.

Let’s look at the similarities and differences between supply chain management and logistics.

Both SCM and logistics:

• Store, move, and deliver goods efficiently.
• Ensure the smooth flow of goods from the beginning to the end of the supply chain.
• Deal with information or goods and services. 
• Lead to increased customer satisfaction.

However, SCM doesn’t only involve logistics management but also other activities, such as production, labor, manufacturing, and delivery.

Logistics is one of many aspects of supply chain management. So, the difference between the two comes down to the focus areas. 

The goal of SCM is to optimize the efficiency of processes throughout the supply chain. The goal of logistics, on the other end, is to satisfy customers’ needs on time. 

Supply chain management best practices

Supply chain managers must adapt to the global market’s growing scale and speed.

An efficient way to do this is by incorporating the following best practices:

• Facilitate collaboration with all companies involved.
• Generate metrics to measure efficiency.
• Speed up inventory and minimize waste.
• Create a resilient supply chain with short cycles.
• Incorporate supply chain technology. 

Manufacturing supply chain solutions

A supply chain management solution bridges gaps in the supply chain and guarantees companies efficiently meet consumer demands.

Companies must adopt a solution tailored to their specific needs to gain a competitive edge.

One way to do this is to adopt business management software that can tackle the pain points in the supply chain for manufacturing.

Method CRM is an excellent option for small to medium businesses in the manufacturing space.

It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and Xero, providing a one-stop solution for everything from inventory management to sales fulfillment.

With Method, you can optimize your manufacturing process through these great features:

• Wholesale and manufacturing chart of accounts.
• ATP (available-to-promise) supply chain management.
• Customized price levels and bill of materials (BoM) cost tracking.
• Functionality over multiple locations.

Learn more about Method’s capabilities with this video.

Key takeaways

When making a product, you can liken the supply chain for manufacturing to the circulatory system in your body. Each step in the process helps move materials efficiently from beginning to end. 

But the entire system becomes compromised if there is a blockage in one of these veins.

Manufacturers need a comprehensive view of their supply chain to maximize productivity and ensure a competitive advantage. 

The best way to do this is by adopting a digitized manufacturing SCM solution, like Method CRM.

In the video below, check out how an integration with Method helped double this shipping container company’s revenue in just three years.

Supply chain for manufacturing FAQs

What are the 3 types of supply chain strategies?

The three supply chain strategies are demand-driven, agile, and collaborative. The first focuses on meeting the consumer’s demand, the second on quicking adapting to demand, and the latter on collaboration between the various parties in the supply chain.

What is the best supply chain model?

Which supply chain model is best depends entirely on the company’s goals and what industry it operates in. The continuous supply model would be best if the goal is to produce the same goods that require slight variation consistently. The fast chain model would be most efficient for fashion, for instance, as companies operate in a trend-based industry.

What is the supply chain process cycle?

The supply chain process cycle involves five main stages, starting with the supplier and ending with the consumer. These stages typically include planning, sourcing, production, delivery, and returns.

Start your free trial of Method CRM today!

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There’s a lot to consider when choosing the best CRM software for manufacturing businesses.

First, you should understand the specific needs of your industry.

For example, let’s say you manufacture a product that calls for multiple touchpoints in the customer journey. In this instance, you’d need a CRM with features specifically tailored to customer service and management.

But you also want to ensure that your manufacturing industry CRM is easy to use and personalizable.

Finding a CRM for manufacturing industry that grow with your company is also important. 

Throughout this article, you’ll understand how CRM systems stimulate growth in manufacturing.

And to help you make the right decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 best CRM software for manufacturing industry in 2025.

What’s a CRM?

A CRM, or customer relationship management system, is software that helps businesses manage customer interactions and data. 

The primary purpose of using a CRM system is to nurture relationships with current and potential customers throughout the buyer’s journey.

A CRM for manufacturing industry gives you a complete view of your customers by tracking all interactions in one place. 

You can use this valuable customer data to improve marketing strategies, sales processes, product development, and overall operations. 

What’s a CRM for manufacturing industry?

Using CRM in manufacturing industry is known to increase sales and ROI while reducing customer churn rates.

A CRM solution for the distribution and manufacturing industries helps businesses manage customer relationships and data in a way that’s tailored to their needs.

Some of the most popular features in a manufacturing industry CRM include:

• Quoting and pricing.
• Opportunity management.
• Customer portals.

The best CRM software for manufacturing helps you increase customer engagement, boost sales, and improve customer support and marketing strategies.

What are the main features to look for in a CRM for manufacturing?

Now that you’ve learned about the use of CRM in manufacturing industry let’s take a closer look at the features that most manufacturers look for.

When choosing a CRM solution for the distribution and manufacturing industries, prioritize the following.

1. Configurability

Configuring the software to your company’s specific needs is a critical part of a manufacturing industry CRM. 

You want to be able to adjust workflows, create custom fields, and add or remove functionality as needed. The more you can mold your CRM software to your business, the better.

2. Customization

Once you’ve found a configurable CRM, you’ll want to ensure it’s also customizable. This means being able to personalize the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) to fit your company’s needs. 

You should be able to change things like colors, fonts, and logos. The best CRM for manufacturing industry let you create custom reports and dashboards too.

3. Integrations

Integration is one of the most critical features to look for in a CRM for manufacturing industry. 

Ideally, you should choose a solution that integrates with the rest of your manufacturing software stack.

Examples of valuable integrations include your accounting software like QuickBooks or email campaign manager.

Why should you use a CRM for manufacturing

There are many reasons to use a CRM system in any industry, but the benefits are especially pronounced in manufacturing.  

For one, the best CRM for manufacturing help you increase sales by improving your marketing and sales processes. 

You can use your CRM to automatically send targeted emails to customers based on their interactions with your company. You can also segment your customer list so that your sales team only contacts the most qualified leads.

With a manufacturing CRM, you can offer your customers a portal where they can:

• View their purchase history.
• Track their orders.
• Submit support tickets. 

Below is an example of what a portal from a CRM for manufacturing industry offers.

Let’s review how your business can benefit from a dedicated manufacturing industry CRM.

How can I benefit from using a CRM for manufacturing?

If you’re still not convinced that a CRM system is right for your manufacturing business, consider the following benefits.

1. Improved customer engagement

CRM systems give you complete visibility into your customer interactions and data. You can use this valuable information to improve marketing strategies and sales processes.

2. Increased sales and ROI

A CRM solution for manufacturing helps you increase sales and ROI while reducing customer churn rates. 

3. Boosted productivity

The use of CRM in manufacturing industry lets you boost productivity by automating repetitive tasks such as email marketing or lead generation. 

4. Better forecasting and planning

CRM systems make it easier to forecast future sales and marketing trends. You can use this information to improve product development or operations.

5. Informed decision-making

A CRM system provides managers with valuable data that they can use to make informed decisions about marketing, sales, and operations. 

How can I choose the best CRM for my manufacturing industry?

Now that you know the benefits of using a CRM system in manufacturing, let’s look at how to choose the best CRM for your business. 

There are many different types of CRM solutions on the market, so choosing one that can be tailored to the manufacturing industry is essential. 

You have learned that configurability, customization, and integrations are the three main things to watch out for. But what else do you need to know? 

To help you find your perfect fit, below are the best CRM software for the distribution and manufacturing industries.

How we selected the best CRMs for manufacturing industry

When putting together this list, we looked at various factors, including:

• Configurability.
• Customization.
• Integrations. 
• Other key features.

We also considered user reviews of these CRM systems from reputable sources such as Capterra and G2 Crowd.

From our research, we were able to narrow down the list to the top 10 best CRM software for manufacturing industry.

Best CRM software for manufacturing in 2025

Compare the best CRM software for manufacturing in 2025 with this comprehensive list of features, pros, cons, and pricing details.

1. Method CRM

Features

• QuickBooks and Xero two-way sync, so your financials are always up to date.
• Online customer portal for an improved customer experience.
• Mobile app to keep you in the loop anytime, anywhere.
• Custom reporting based on your business needs.
• Native integrations with Gmail, Outlook, Mailchimp, Zapier, and more.

Pros

• Save time and enhance accuracy when you sync customer data between Method and QuickBooks or Xero.
• Reusable templates to personalize emails, reports, invoices, estimates, and more.
• No code, unlimited customization to create a tailored solution.
• The ability to automate your business all around.

Cons

Method CRM is currently only available in English to users of QuickBooks or Xero.

Pricing

Method CRM offers three subscription options:

• Contact Management: $25 per user per month.
• CRM Pro: $44 per user per month.
• CRM Enterprise: $74 per user per month.

Method CRM also offers a free trial, no credit card required.

2. Zendesk Sell

Features

• Email integrations.
• Sales engagement tools.
• Task overview.
• Call and text log.

Pros

• Useful reporting options.
• Easy onboarding and team creation.
• Smart list generation through filtered data.

Cons

Some users have reported a lack of customization and limitations with the pipeline. 

Pricing

Zendesk Sell has three subscription options:

• Team: $19 per user per month.
• Growth: $49 per user per month.
• Professional: $99 per user per month.

Zendesk Sell offers a 14-day free trial.

3. Thryv (previously LeadMaster)

Features

• Job scheduling.
• Billing and invoicing.
• Marketing automation.

Pros

• Centralized tools for different business needs.
• Quick and helpful customer service.
• Customer engagement across channels.

Cons

Some users have reported a steep learning curve in the beginning. A lack of automation surrounding billing and invoicing is another limitation of this CRM for manufacturing industry.

Pricing

Thryv offers three subscription plans:

• Plus: 2 users.
• Premium: 6 users.
• Unlimited: 10 users.

Pricing is calculated on a custom proposal basis so there are no preset pricing points listed online.

4. Maximizer CRM

Features

• Knowledge base management.
• Support ticket management.
• Goal setting/tracking.

Pros

• Centralized sales data.
• Ongoing sales team improvement.
• Informed decision-making through customized reporting.

Cons

Users reported limited capacities, so it’s not a scalable solution. There have also been issues with syncing integrations.

Pricing

Maximizer offers three subscription plans:

• Small Office: $35 per user per month.
• Business: $55 per user per month.
• Professional: $100 per user per month.

5. NetSuite CRM

Features

• Marketing automation.
• Customer service management.
• Partner relationship management.

Pros

• Centralized view of customer data.
• Visibility into sales pipeline and forecasts
• Streamlined marketing campaign management.

Cons

Not very user-friendly, so third-party integration can be challenging without a specialized support team. Many users have reported a steep learning curve.

Pricing

Pricing for this CRM for manufacturing industry is calculated on a custom basis.

6. Insightly

Features

• Lead routing.
• Advanced project management.
• Built-in phone feature.
• Integrations with over 250 apps.

Pros

• Business cards easily scanned on mobile app.
• Easy conversion of won opportunities into projects.
• Customizable fields to control how you capture data.

Cons

Insightly does not offer strong reporting. Customization is also limited, giving you only a high-level view of your business.

Pricing

Insightly offers three subscription plans:

• Plus: $29 per user per month.
• Professional: $49 per user per month.
• Enterprise: $99 per user per month.

Insightly does not offer a free trial. The free plan has minimal features and only allows for two users.

7. Claritysoft CRM

Features

• Email marketing.
• Contact and sales management.
• Reporting and dashboards.

Pros

• Easy to customize.
• Powerful email integrations.
• Pipeline management automation.

Cons

Some of the most important features like workflow automation are not available in the lowest price tier. Some users have also reported glitches and slow speeds when running the software.

Pricing

Claritysoft offers three subscription plans:

• Professional: $39 per user per month.
• Accelerator: $49 per user per month.
• Enterprise: $69 per user per month.

There is a 3-user minimum for any subscription.

8. SugarCRM

Features

• Quote management.
• Sales forecasting.
• Reporting and dashboards.
• Mobile app.

Pros

• Intuitive marketing automation tools.
• Affordable solution for small businesses.
• Useful third-party integrations.

Cons

Some users have expressed difficulties navigating the interface and customizing the platform. 

Pricing

SugarCRM offers four subscription plans:

• Sell: $49 per user per month.
• Serve: $80 per user per month.
• Enterprise: $85 per user per month.
• Market: $1,000 per month for 10K contacts.

9. monday sales CRM

Features

• Contact and lead management.
• Sales pipeline and forecasting.
• Marketing automation.

Pros

• Easy to personalize.
• Intuitive user interface.
• Great for collaboration and building engagement.

Cons

The platform lacks a good reporting feature and popular email integrations.

Pricing

Monday sales CRM offers five subscription plans:

• Individual: $0, up to two users.
• Basic: $17.30 per user per month.
• Standard: $23.60 per user per month.
• Pro: $40.20 per user per month.
• Enterprise: Custom pricing.

You can try the first four plans with a free 14-day trial.

CRM for manufacturing FAQs

Now that you’re equipped with all the knowledge necessary to pick your best CRM software for manufacturing.

Let’s take a look at some other frequently asked questions.

Does Salesforce provide a CRM for manufacturing industry?

Yes and no. Salesforce does not have a specific CRM solution for the manufacturing industry. 

However, automotive, aerospace and defense, consumer goods, electronics, and more manufacturing industries have turned to Salesforce with success. 

However,  it may not be the best CRM for manufacturing small businesses due to the complexity of the tool. 

You can see how Salesforce compares to Method, for example, as a CRM for manufacturing industry here. 

What are the 3 types of CRM?

The three types of CRM are operational, analytical, and collaborative.

1. Operational CRM automates and manages the sales process from beginning to end.
2. Analytical CRM provides data-driven insights to improve marketing and sales strategies. 
3. Collaborative CRM facilitates communication and collaboration between different departments in a company.

What industries need CRM?

Any business that relies on sales coming in can benefit from a CRM system. This includes, but is not limited to, manufacturing, wholesale, healthcare, technology, consulting, and financial services.

Get started with a free trial of Method CRM!

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According to the SEC, public companies are required to record and track stocks.

As per our expertise, many choose to do this through inventory management.

There are multiple ways to track inventory, such as using physical records, spreadsheets, or other inventory management solutions. 

After putting it to the test, we learned that QuickBooks is a great way to manage your accounting and inventory through a single platform.

QuickBooks Online is an accounting software solution with key features that help businesses of every size manage their inventory more efficiently than traditional tools. 

This article will cover QuickBooks Online and inventory management features, along with how you can use it to improve productivity.

QuickBooks Online and inventory management

QuickBooks Online inventory management helps businesses efficiently manage and organize their stock.

We have found from using this product that you can set stock alerts to always know what stock quantities are available and manage supplier info to make reordering easier. It also tracks stock value in real-time by automatically adjusting your balance sheet.

The essentials of inventory management

Drawing from experience, there are many ways companies can set up their inventory management protocols. Regardless of the setup, it always boils down to efficient inventory tracking. 

While there are many ways to do this, our findings show that these are the fundamental basics:

• Categorizing your inventory.
• Tracking product information and sales.
• Analyzing supplier performance.
• Implementing the 80/20 rule.
• Investing in inventory management technology.

Things to look for in an inventory management system

Over time, we found that almost every company faces unique challenges with inventory management at some point.

The inventory system you choose should include specific key features for any business dealing with inventory management challenges.

These features should allow you to:

• Track materials, logistics, and stocks. 
• Track inventory value in real-time.
• Organize stock by product, customer, or both.
• Generate invoices, estimates, and sales orders.
• Seamlessly integrate with systems you already use. 

Inventory management in QuickBooks Online

As indicated by our tests, the QBO inventory management solution only comes with the Plus or Advanced plan. 

Useful features in these plans include:

• Inventory tracking and triggered alerts.
• Inventory and purchase order reporting.
• Products in stock summary.
• Best-selling items and sales trends view.

Using QuickBooks Online for inventory management

Upgrading to QuickBooks Online Plus and Advanced will offer even more inventory management options.

Let’s look at what QuickBooks Online and inventory management options there are.

QuickBooks Online inventory assembly

The QB Online inventory assembly feature comes with QuickBooks Enterprise, Accountant, and Desktop Premier.

It can combine separate inventory components with building a singular product. This means you can easily track your finished goods and their components’ inventory status. 

QuickBooks helps you keep an eye on the parts needed for your build.

After trying out this product, we learned that you can set inventory tracking and stock alert triggers so that you’re always aware of your stock levels. You can then easily reorder the missing components.

QuickBooks Online inventory reports

QuickBooks provides standard reports such as a balance sheet, cost of goods, and a breakdown of your best-selling items.

You can generate customized reports that show details like total sales of a product, sales transactions, and other information.

Inventory reports can also show you what items you have in stock. For example, it can show details like quantities available and the average cost per item.

You will also get an overview of completed transactions for each item and how it affects your stock, the value, and the cost. 

Problems with inventory management in QuickBooks Online

Despite its many great features, Intuit created QuickBooks primarily to assist accounting professionals. 

So, there are areas where it doesn’t perform as well as other dedicated inventory management solutions.

Let’s take a look at some of those areas. 

QuickBooks isn’t designed for inventory management

If you use QuickBooks Online and inventory management is on your radar, you must upgrade your account to Plus or Advanced. 

Moreover, based on our firsthand experience, QuickBooks lacks support for inventory management, and its inventory tracking capabilities are very elementary. QuickBooks Online doesn’t support tracking items across multiple locations, for instance.

You’ll likely need additional programs to bridge the gaps

One of the advantages of QuickBooks is its ability to integrate with third-party software.

However, this can also be one of its disadvantages. 

Additional programs are necessary if you want to use QuickBooks for more than accounting and basic inventory reports. But this ends up costing you extra money, time, and effort.

Limited inventory analytics and reporting

Inventory analysis can help businesses increase operational efficiency by determining the appropriate amount of stock according to demand.

If you want these more advanced features on QuickBooks, you need to upgrade to Desktop Enterprise, which will cost you more.

Reports are available on the basic plan, but provide minimal information. 

QBO inventory add-ons

QuickBooks has an app center where you can leverage integrations for increased functionality.

Some of the many useful apps include:

• Receipt Bank: Enables photo capturing of receipts, reducing data entry.
• Transaction Pro Importer: Allows importing and recording of Excel and .csv files.
• SOS Inventory: Inventory management app that syncs data with QuickBooks Online.
• TSheets: Employee management app with features like a time tracker and scheduling software.
• Quotient: Work order app that allows for creating, sending, and managing quotes.

How Method helps manufacturers using QBO inventory add-ons

Though QuickBooks Online offers a great accounting solution, the basic version is not designed to handle more advanced tasks and reports without additional add-ons.

Besides, sorting through and viewing all the data can be time-consuming and require a lot of effort.

This is where Method CRM comes into play. 

Method CRM makes life easier for manufacturers through efficient organization and automation of crucial workflows. It gives you a two-way, real-time sync with QuickBooks, allowing you to manage and view all your data in one place.

While it includes standard CRM solutions like lead generation, it also offers other essential features, such as:

• Online customer portal.
• Contact management.
• Time tracking.
• Workflow automation.

Watch this video to learn more about Method’s capabilities.

Key takeaways

Efficient inventory management is essential for businesses of all sizes, but keeping track of everything can take time and effort.

While the QBO inventory management solution can help, it may be too limited for what you need to do.

But with Method CRM, QuickBooks Online and inventory management can coexist without hassle.

Automate your key workflows and spend the time you win back on growing your business.

QuickBooks Online and inventory management FAQs

Can I use QuickBooks for inventory management?

Yes, QuickBooks has inventory management software available to Plus or Advanced plan users. However, it’s far less functional than a QuickBooks-integrated app.

How many inventory items can QuickBooks Online handle?

With QuickBooks Desktop Pro and Premier, you can add up to 14,500 inventory items to your list. After using QuickBooks Enterprise, we have found that you can add up to 100,000 items. 

How do I expense inventory in QBO?

You can expense inventory by creating an invoice or sales receipt and zeroing its balance. To do that, create an expense item, then add it to the appropriate invoice or sales receipt with a negative amount. 

How do I fix incorrect inventory in QuickBooks Online?

If you’re tracking your inventory on QuickBooks Online Plus or Advanced, you can manually adjust the quantity of an item without recording a purchase or sale. As this may register as stock shrinkage, there is also an option to delete and recreate items with the correct quantity.

Sign up for your free trial of Method CRM now!

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For a manufacturing business to stay ahead of the curve and ensure peak productivity and customer satisfaction, you must constantly update its processes. This means you must always look for improvement opportunities.

The best way to do this is through digitization and adopting specialized software for manufacturing businesses. 

There is a multitude of software solutions out there. Each one improves business operations and makes the company more efficient.

But how do you know which one to choose for your business?

In this guide, you’ll go over what manufacturing software is, what to look for, and list some of the top software available for manufacturing companies.

What is manufacturing software?

Manufacturing software is a digital program that helps companies manage and automate their manufacturing processes.

These operations could include production planning, inventory management, project management, sales management, resource allocation, and shop floor management. 

On top of automation, software for manufacturing can integrate the processes into a single system. This allows for comprehensive, real-time visibility of operations.

Best software for manufacturing companies

There are many factors that companies need to consider when choosing software for manufacturing. 

It depends on the size and type of manufacturing company. But it also depends on what processes need automation, what aspects need managing, and more.

While the best software for manufacturers will differ depending on the company, there are some types of software that manufacturers commonly use. 

These types of software include:

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).
• Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).
• Quality Management Systems (QMS).
• Material Requirements Planning (MRP). 
• Supply Chain Management (SCM).
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM).
• Bill of Materials (BoM).
• Inventory management.
• Contact management.
• Production planning.
• SKU management.

Advantages of manufacturing software

The manufacturing industry faces many challenges. For example, globalization and outsourcing pressure manufacturers to cut costs and stay competitive.

There’s also the pressure from customers to deliver quality products that are sustainable, ethical, and environmentally friendly.

Though these are difficult challenges to overcome, incorporating software for manufacturing into your business could provide some key advantages.

Such advantages include:

• Expedited production processes.
• Minimized unplanned downtime.
• Increased product quality. 
• Easy, multiple-location production monitoring. 
• Reduced waste.

Key features of manufacturing software

Comparing software for manufacturing requires understanding its functionality and how it can improve manufacturing operations.

Let’s look at a few different types of software and what they could provide.

Material requirements planning (MRP)

An MRP is an integrated inventory and supply management system. 

You can use it to predict when and how much raw materials you need. This allows for the most efficient production plan according to consumer demand.

Its functions include:

• Labor and material costing.
• Order processing.
• Automated quoting.
• Resource scheduling.

Manufacturing execution system (MES)

An MES uses real-time data to monitor and control complex manufacturing systems. Its goal is to maximize production efficiency. 

Some functions include:

• Labor tracking.
• Equipment utilization.
• Work-in-progress reporting.

Manufacturing accounting

Manufacturing accounting software manages a company’s financial records focusing on production costs and revenue.

It includes traditional accounting functions, such as:

• General ledger.
• Inventory.
• Payroll.
• Accounts receivable.
• Accounts payable.

Additional functions may include support for purchases, sales, and change orders.

How we selected the best software for manufacturing companies

The best software for a manufacturing company depends on the company’s objectives and existing protocols.

Manufacturing companies each have unique processes and operations, so there are specific criteria to look out for when choosing the top manufacturing software available. 

Among those criteria are:

• Scalability: If the software can’t grow with the business, it could end up disrupting processes throughout the supply chain, causing expensive delays.
• Ease-of-use: User-friendly software in manufacturing means that anyone can use it without too much training and reduces time spent navigating it, both of which could be costly.
• Features: Some essential features in software for manufacturing include inventory management, shop floor control, good integration, business reporting, and MRP. 
• Pricing: The right software for a manufacturing business will balance its offers and pricing well.

You also may choose software for manufacturing that’s either cloud-based or on-premise.

Cloud-based software only needs an internet connection and devices to access the platform. This means that the company doesn’t need to invest in its IT infrastructure, making it a more cost-effective solution.

However, as it requires an internet connection, it’s dependent on the availability of stable internet coverage.

On-premise software requires an internal IT infrastructure with servers to operate it. This means that the company has complete control and can personalize it as needed, even without a steady internet connection.

However, it requires a significant up-front investment. Also, server crashes could take days to fix, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Best software for manufacturing in 2025

1. Method

Method is a customer relationship management (CRM) platform rated as a top-performing software for manufacturing companies.

Designed to help businesses take full advantage of customer and sales data, Method allows for a detailed customer history view.

You can also create email campaigns, payments, invoices, receipts, and estimates. With Method, you can empower your customers to make payments securely through the platform.

Method CRM is rated the #1 CRM by QuickBooks and Xero users. Watch the free demo to find out why.

Features

• Lead generation and management.
• Reporting and forecasting.
• Sales pipeline management.
• Workflow automation.

Pros

• Seamless integration with QuickBooks and Xero.
• Responsive and effective support team.
• No-code, fully customizable solution.
• Connect from anywhere with the mobile app.

Cons

• Slight learning curve.
• Takes some time to implement.

Pricing

There are three pricing plans:

• Contact Management: $25 per user per month.
• CRM Pro: $44 per user per month.
• CRM Enterprise: $74 per user per month.

You can also mix and match plans, so you only pay for the features you need.

2. Fishbowl

Fishbowl is a highly-ranked warehouse and manufacturing inventory management software. It helps businesses reduce steps in the manufacturing process to increase productivity.

Businesses can access real-time inventory updates, which helps simplify processes, improve efficiency, and lower costs. 

Features

• Optimized inventory and work order management.
• Inventory requirement predictions based on sales trends.
• Material requirements and job shop floor planning.
• Integration with Salesforce, QuickBooks, Shopify, and more.

Pros

• Scalable with your business.
• Easy to navigate and use. 

Cons

• 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. 

3. NetSuite

NetSuite is a cloud ERP software for manufacturing. It helps businesses coordinate, control, and manage all aspects of manufacturing operations on a single platform.

Features

• Intelligent Order Management tool.
• Centralized view of inventory over all locations.
• Procurement and job shop floor control.
• Advanced lead tracking capabilities.

Pros

• Multiple customization options.
• Detailed reporting.
• Implementation training program.

Cons

• Challenging third-party integrations.
• Unoptimized advanced reports.
• Too costly for small businesses.

Pricing

NetSuite starts at $99/month per user, plus a $999 monthly licensing fee. 

4. JobBOSS²

JobBOSS² combines industry-leading E2 SHOP and JobBOSS to create their job shop business management solution.

Designed for make-to-order manufacturers and job shops, JobBOSS² provides scalability, visibility, and key insights into your shop floor.

Features

• Quote and order processing.
• Inventory, material, and shop floor control. 
• Cost analysis and bill of material (BoM) importing.

Pros

• Free server maintenance.
• Data collection through tablet apps.
• Optimized production planning.

Cons

• Report customization and improvement costs extra.
• Personalization of the homepage requires third-party software.
• The time clock feature is prone to bugs.

Pricing

JobBOSS² starts at $95/month per user with a 1-year agreement or $70/month per user for 3 years.

5. Striven

Striven is a cloud-based business management ERP platform that focuses on improving critical business processes.

The software has fully integrated CRM, accounting, project management, inventory, and human resources.

Features

• Comprehensive cloud accounting.
• Lead tracking and instant reporting.
• Project management with customer collaboration.
• Productivity dashboard with custom reporting.

Pros

• Excellent customer service 
• Easy upload and data entry.
• Solid third-party integrations.

Cons

• Occasionally crashes due to bugs.
• Multitude of functionalities makes it complex.

Pricing

Striven starts at $20/month per user (for up to 20 users), plus $99 for monthly hosting. It also offers a free trial.

6. Katana Manufacturing ERP

Katana is a cloud-based MRP manufacturing solution made for small businesses. It offers modules for production planning and inventory, order, and purchase management.

Companies can also get real-time insights with its Shop Floor App, which can track manufacturing costs based on production operations. 

Features

• Production planning and scheduling.
• Inventory management with real-time inventory control.
• Sales order management on a centralized dashboard.
• Integration with Shopify, QuickBooks, Xero, and more.

Pros

• User-friendly, intuitive platform.
• Simplifies tracking materials and reordering.

Cons

• Missing key features, such as shipping supply tracking.
• May become costly for smaller businesses.

Pricing

Katana starts at $99/month for one full-access user, billed annually. Additional full-access users cost $29/month. Katana also offers a free trial.

7. Prodsmart

Prodsmart is an MES created specifically for fabricators and manufacturers. This user-friendly software for manufacturing tracks and manages the entire production process, from sales to shipping.

Prodsmart lets manufacturers monitor production progress, identify bottlenecks, predict machine downtime, and minimize waste. 

Features

• Performance tracking and workflow visualization.
• Dashboard with real-time data.
• Effective scheduling for inventory management and MRP.

Pros

• Helpful and efficient customer support.
• Easy, simplified deployment.
• Budget-friendly, comprehensive solution.

Cons

• Stability and offline support issues.
• Limited diagnostic data on production.

Pricing

Prodsmart starts at $9,925/year with unlimited users and devices included. It also offers a free trial.

8. 24SevenOffice

24SevenOffice is a cloud-based software created to help SMBs digitally monitor critical operations and use the data to make strategic decisions that increase profit.

Businesses can use real-time data to monitor and track materials, production orders, and quality control.

Features

• Warehouse management.
• Engineering and product lifecycle management.
• Accounting, financial, and project management.

Pros

• Comprehensive overview of customers and suppliers.
• Cost-effective module-based approach. 

Cons

• Lack of supply chain management features.
• Challenging user interface and implementation.

Pricing

24SevenOffice starts at $85/month per user for access to all modules. 

9. QT9 ERP

QT9 ERP is a manufacturing platform created to help businesses manage their accounting, sales, purchases, inventory, production, and more. It automates critical processes like invoicing, quoting, resource allocation, shipping, and manufacturing.

Its dashboard gives managers real-time insights into details on supplier performance, items purchased, and manufactured goods. 

Features

• Alerts and notifications for raw materials and finished goods.
• Detailed reporting, statistics, and analytics. 
• Quality management and customized reporting.
• Sage50, QuickBooks, and QMS integrations.

Pros

• User-friendly, personalized grids.
• BoM revision control. 

Cons

• Lacks customization for modules.
• No advanced search or reporting capabilities.

Pricing

QT9 ERP starts at $25/month per user for basic features. It also offers a free trial.

10. Global Shop Solutions

Global Shop Solutions’ manufacturing software was designed to help businesses manage their operations on one centralized platform. It incorporates inventory management, supply chain management, accounting, CRM, scheduling, job costing, and more modules.

The system also includes a company messaging function so users can quickly communicate with customers and employees.

Features

• Shop management with a real-time overview.
• Master scheduling dashboard and customizable reporting.
• Inventory management and accounting.

Pros

• Many modules and add-ons included out of the box.
• Flexible, detailed software with extensive functionality.
• Quick, responsive customer support.

Cons

• Can run into issues after upgrades 
• Steep learning curve and complex implementation.

Pricing

Contact Global Shop Solutions directly for accurate pricing information. It offers a demo for all its products.

Which manufacturing software is best for you?

The best manufacturing software depends on the size of your company, how many users you want to add, and which operational improvements are needed.

If you’re a large manufacturing company, robust software for manufacturing like Global Shop Solutions, Fishbowl, and NetSuite is worth considering. 

If you’re an SMB with fewer employees, budget-friendly software that improves critical aspects of operations will help you grow faster.

The manufacturing software you choose should ultimately increase productivity, streamline or automate production, increase revenue, and improve customer satisfaction. 

Method CRM helps SMBs with everything from automation of workflows to full utilization of customer and sales data. Its two-way sync with QuickBooks and Xero makes accounting and financials easy.

With Method, you will improve productivity and increase customer satisfaction, ensuring that competitive edge that’ll help your business grow and prosper.

Software for Manufacturing FAQs

Which software is best for manufacturing?

The best software for manufacturing business depends on what areas the company needs to improve. There are multiple types of software, each made to tackle different aspects of operations. The most popular include ERP, CMMS, and computer-aided manufacturing.

What is manufacturing process software?

A manufacturing process software is a system that manufacturers use to manage raw materials and produce products.

What is ERP in manufacturing?

Manufacturing ERP is software that helps manage all aspects of manufacturing operations and processes on a centralized platform. Large-scale manufacturing companies typically use ERP software, as it can give manufacturers real-time visibility of shop floor operations and optimize inventory management and accuracy.

Begin improving your manufacturing workflow by watching a free demo of Method, the #1 CRM by QuickBooks and Xero users.

Image credits: Firmbee via Pexels

Most companies use QuickBooks Online for managing finances, but many are unaware of how it can also benefit your manufacturing business and its processes. With an industry-specific version for manufacturing and wholesale, QuickBooks Online has advanced inventory tools that simplify complex procedures and improve order accuracy.

If you want to use QuickBooks to streamline your manufacturing processes, this QuickBooks Manufacturing and Wholesale tutorial will tell you everything you need to know.

QuickBooks manufacturing and wholesale accounting software

QuickBooks Online advertises its manufacturing and wholesale edition as an effective way to automate manual processes and keep your sales fulfillment on track. It is ideal for manufacturing businesses that need the following.

• Accurate inventory counts: If your business has a sizable inventory, QuickBooks Online tracks inventory items as they move throughout the sales process.
• Detailed analytics and financial reports: Study the financial aspects of your business and use key inventory reports to make more informed decisions and deliver accurate forecasts.
• Easy assembly processes: Handling inventory processes manually takes up significant time that you don’t have. With QuickBooks Online, you can define material, inventory, and labor amounts accurately and automatically.
• Specific pricing structures: If you’re looking for customer classifications, QuickBooks can segregate payment details according to customer type or individual sales.

Is QuickBooks good for manufacturing?

While it has its limitations, QuickBooks poses many benefits for your manufacturing firm.

Reduce waste

Advanced inventory management is essential to preventing waste and reducing overhead costs.

With QuickBooks, you can track inventory items through your Chart of Accounts. When you use this feature to track inventory on a first in, first out (FIFO) basis, you prevent dead stock from building up.

Eliminate bottlenecks

Bottlenecking is when your master production schedule reaches a slow point. Plan production typically slows when inventory runs out, or the necessary equipment is in use. 

Fortunately, QuickBooks Manufacturing features like routing manufacturing pinpoint where your bottlenecks are. 

From here, you can use manufacturing lead time features to monitor the production process for each inventory assembly item strictly.

Automation

Automation shouldn’t have to involve incorporating expensive equipment into your process. Instead, you can automate repetitive tasks like tracking inventory items, scheduling distribution and sending real-time product updates to save time and money.

Develop your master production schedule

A master production schedule (MPS) plots your entire production process from start to finish. Take advantage of QuickBooks’ scheduling production tools to:

• Fulfill orders quickly.
• Prevent delays and shortages. 
• Use only the raw materials you need.

Plus, a thorough MPS lets your business adjust to fluctuations in demand and improve inventory cost control. 

QuickBooks integration

After this QuickBooks manufacturing and wholesale tutorial, you’ll be an expert at how to use QuickBooks Manufacturing. 

However, this doesn’t mean it’s the only tool you need to run your business! 

QuickBooks integrates with over 650 business applications — so make sure to look for tools that connect with QuickBooks. Even better if you can find a solution that syncs your data bidirectionally!

Save your BOMs in one place

A scattered bill of materials (BOM) makes it virtually impossible to keep your production progress on schedule. 

Use QuickBooks Manufacturing to define BOMs and automatically list what materials you need and whether you have them in stock.

Centralize your entire business

Keeping up with daily operations is no easy feat, especially when your data isn’t centralized. 

The good news is that QuickBooks can present this information in a visual dashboard that your team can access. 

Instead of developing spreadsheets from scratch, you can facilitate your inventory management in one place and categorize them readably.

How to use QuickBooks for manufacturing and wholesale

Now that you know the benefits of using QuickBooks Manufacturing and Wholesale, it’s time to implement its best features. So without further ado, let’s dive into the QuickBooks manufacturing and wholesale tutorial. 

Tracking raw materials inventory and parts-in-process

Excellent manufacturing is a carefully developed process. Your inventory management is only as good as your production management. 

Thus, tracking every inventory transfer across an expansive list of inventory sites is imperative.

With QuickBooks, there are so many ways to monitor your inventory. You can follow your item’s journey via:

• Mobile barcode scanning. 
• Lot and serial number tracking.

Adding inventory assembly items

For this QuickBooks manufacturing and wholesale tutorial let’s go into more detail on assemblies management. 

QuickBooks Enterprise for Manufacturing and Wholesale has an Inventory Assembly feature where you can assign accounts for specific items. When you add an item, follow these steps:

1. From the Lists menu, choose Item List.
2. Pick New Item. 
3. Choose Inventory Assembly, then specify your account. 
4. Describe the item and fill in the Sales Price box. Assign a tax code, if necessary. 
5. Then, use your BOM list to identify individual components. 
6. Specify the asset account for inventory valuation.
7. Select a build point and identify the lowest inventory quantity of the item that you can sustain before needing to manufacture more. Eventually, when your inventory level drops to this assigned number, QuickBooks will remind you to start production.
8. Leave the On Hand, As Of, and Total Value boxes empty.

Recording manufacture or assembly of items

When you assemble a new item, you’ll want to record each step of manufacture for easy reference. Do this in a few simple steps:

1. Select Vendors, then Inventory Activities, then Build Assemblies.
2. Select your item from the Assembly Item list, filling in the Quantity to Build box.
3. When you’re done, select Build and Close. 
4. If you want to add another item, click Build and New. 

Managing multiple inventory locations

QuickBooks Enterprise makes record-keeping easier if you store inventory part items in multiple locations. Use it to assign inventory sites and track items accordingly. 

Turn on the functions for Advanced Inventory Tracking with the following steps:

1. Choose Edit.
2. Click on Preferences.
3. Click Items, then Inventory, and head to Company Preferences.
4. Choose Advanced Inventory Settings and turn on the tracking function.

What is negative inventory in QuickBooks manufacturing?

Negative inventory on QuickBooks Manufacturing occurs when you create an invoice but forget to update your current inventory holdings. 

Suppose you have a product level of zero but generate your invoice and complete sales order fulfillment before updating your inventory.

When you ship your order out, QuickBooks will set your inventory stock status as -1. 

While it may seem like an easy fix, negative inventory can make it difficult to calculate your average cost for a product.

This is a key takeaway from this QuickBooks manufacturing and wholesale tutorial.

Limitations of QuickBooks for manufacturing

Perhaps QuickBooks’ biggest downfall is its inability to convert raw materials into a finished product. 

For example, suppose your raw inventory availability changes — this affects your finished product. 

Unfortunately, QuickBooks won’t register this, and you have to make a manual inventory adjustment each time you finish a project. 

And if you forget to update your inventory stock status, you risk a Ship Negative status.

Method CRM for QuickBooks manufacturing and wholesale

This QuickBooks manufacturing and wholesale tutorial helps you understand how to enhance your workflows, but it doesn’t help you overcome every QuickBooks limitation. 

For a complete manufacturing and wholesale solution that combines production scheduling, key inventory reports, manufacturing accounting, ERP, and CRM capabilities, use Method alongside QuickBooks. 

Below is a preview of what Method CRM can do for you.

There are many benefits for using Method CRM with QuickBooks Manufacturing.

• Lead management: While QuickBooks Manufacturing cannot manage potential sales, you can track opportunities with Method CRM. Method CRM automates lead collection with online sales forms for suppliers and customers.
• Estimates: Create estimates for leads with Method and sync them to QuickBooks once you close your sale.
• Online customer portals: Dealing with multiple customers and vendors can feel overwhelming. Let them self-serve online at their convenience with Method CRM.
• Commission tracking: Manual commission tracking is a headache. Instead, create a custom commission trackers (that exclude sales tax and shipping fees) to simplify your process.
• Online document approval: Instead of chasing down vendors and customers via email or phone, use Method CRM’s online document approval workflows or e-signature capture to sign off on any inventory adjustment or delivery.

The best part — you can automatically sync your data between Method CRM and QuickBooks, whether its contacts, sales transactions, or payments.

QuickBooks manufacturing and wholesale FAQs

How do I manage production in QuickBooks?

You can manage your current inventory holdings with QuickBooks Online Plus’ tracking features. To turn on inventory tracking: 

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select the Sales tab.
3. Go to Products and Services and click Edit.
4. Turn on Show Product/Service Column on Sales Forms and set up price rules as necessary.
5. Click Track Quantity and Price/Rate and Track Inventory Quantity On-Hand.

Through inventory tracking, you can add as many items as you want. Tag them as service items, non-inventory items, or bundles and update inventory availability as necessary.

Then, you can track which products sell through invoices and sales order fulfillment.

QuickBooks can also remind you when it’s time to restock once you reach your lowest inventory quantity.

How much is QuickBooks Manufacturing?

QuickBooks Manufacturing and Wholesale costs $549.99 for an annual subscription per user. With payroll functionality, a single-user account is $1,049.99 per year.

You can access QuickBooks Manufacturing and Wholesale if you already have QuickBooks Premier. QuickBooks Premier Desktop users can enjoy the added benefit of automatic data backups and recovery, annual system updates, and regular customer support.

On top of QuickBooks’ primary bookkeeping features, QuickBooks Manufacturing and Wholesale provides superior control over inventory part items and more flexibility with pricing structures.

Does QuickBooks Online have a bill of materials?

Yes, QuickBooks Online has a bill of material function on the Assembly Screen. With this feature, you can get the total average cost of manufacturing a specific product.

See how you can enhance the power of QuickBooks with Method CRM!

There are many benefits for using Method CRM with QuickBooks Manufacturing.

• Lead management: While QuickBooks Manufacturing cannot manage potential sales, you can track opportunities with Method CRM. Method CRM automates lead collection with online sales forms for suppliers and customers.
• Estimates: Create estimates for leads with Method and sync them to QuickBooks once you close your sale.
• Online customer portals: Dealing with multiple customers and vendors can feel overwhelming. Let them self-serve online at their convenience with Method CRM.
• Commission tracking: Manual commission tracking is a headache. Instead, create a custom commission trackers (that exclude sales tax and shipping fees) to simplify your process.
• Online document approval: Instead of chasing down vendors and customers via email or phone, use Method CRM’s online document approval workflows or e-signature capture to sign off on any inventory adjustment or delivery.

The best part — you can automatically sync your data between Method CRM and QuickBooks, whether its contacts, sales transactions, or payments.

QuickBooks manufacturing and wholesale FAQs

How do I manage production in QuickBooks?

You can manage your current inventory holdings with QuickBooks Online Plus’ tracking features. To turn on inventory tracking: 

1. Go to Settings.
2. Select the Sales tab.
3. Go to Products and Services and click Edit.
4. Turn on Show Product/Service Column on Sales Forms and set up price rules as necessary.
5. Click Track Quantity and Price/Rate and Track Inventory Quantity On-Hand.

Through inventory tracking, you can add as many items as you want. Tag them as service items, non-inventory items, or bundles and update inventory availability as necessary.

Then, you can track which products sell through invoices and sales order fulfillment.

QuickBooks can also remind you when it’s time to restock once you reach your lowest inventory quantity.

How much is QuickBooks Manufacturing?

QuickBooks Manufacturing and Wholesale costs $549.99 for an annual subscription per user. With payroll functionality, a single-user account is $1,049.99 per year.

You can access QuickBooks Manufacturing and Wholesale if you already have QuickBooks Premier. QuickBooks Premier Desktop users can enjoy the added benefit of automatic data backups and recovery, annual system updates, and regular customer support.

On top of QuickBooks’ primary bookkeeping features, QuickBooks Manufacturing and Wholesale provides superior control over inventory part items and more flexibility with pricing structures.

Does QuickBooks Online have a bill of materials?

Yes, QuickBooks Online has a bill of material function on the Assembly Screen. With this feature, you can get the total average cost of manufacturing a specific product.

See how you can enhance the power of QuickBooks with Method CRM!

Image credit: Drazen via Adobe Stock