Software for Distributors: How to Simplify Inventory & Order Management

In today’s competitive distribution industry, the right software is key to optimizing inventory management, streamlining order processing and operational efficiency. Distribution businesses handle big inventories, complex logistics and multi-channel sales, so software is critical to reducing errors, improving accuracy and saving time. By going digital, distributors can increase visibility, automate key tasks and grow the business.

The global distribution software market is growing fast, with recent Research Nester reports showing the market will grow at 9.2% over the next 5 years. If you don’t adopt modern software, you’ll fall behind your competitors who are using technology to gain efficiency and cost savings.

Best Practices for Implementing Distribution Software

To maximize the benefits of distribution software, businesses should follow these best practices:

• Assess Business Needs: Evaluate pain points and choose software that aligns with operational goals.
• Choose Scalable Solutions: Select a platform that can grow with the company and accommodate future needs.
• Integrate with Existing Systems: Ensure compatibility with other business tools like accounting, CRM, and inventory management.
• Provide Employee Training: Proper training ensures smooth adoption and maximized use of the software’s features.
• Monitor Performance Metrics: Use built-in analytics to track efficiency, order fulfillment speed, and customer satisfaction.

What Types of Software for Distribution Are Used in D2C?

Various software solutions help distributors run their business better. Below are the types of software and examples of how they help distribution businesses.

1. Order Management Software (OMS)

Purpose: Centralize order processing, track order status and minimize manual errors.

Examples:

• Zoho Inventory – Automate order workflows, track shipments and integrate with eCommerce platforms for seamless operations.
• NetSuite Order Management – A robust solution for big distributors, multi-channel order tracking and fulfillment capabilities.
• SimplyDepo – Streamline order management with real-time tracking, automated workflows, and enhanced inventory visibility to boost operational efficiency.

Why It Matters:

Order accuracy is key for distributors. 43% of businesses lose revenue due to incorrect or delayed orders. OMS solutions reduce these errors by automating processes, ensuring fulfillment efficiency and real-time inventory updates in sync. Plus companies using OMS solutions see a 30% reduction in fulfillment time which means better customer satisfaction and cash flow.

2. Field Sales Management Software

Purpose: Helps sales teams manage field operations, track visits and capture orders remotely.

Examples:

• LeadSquared – Track field sales reps’ activities, optimize lead management and sales tracking.
• Repsly – Real-time sales updates and inventory tracking for mobile reps.
• SimplyDepo – Enables field sales teams to efficiently manage customer visits, capture orders instantly, and access real-time inventory data to boost productivity and customer satisfaction.

3. Inventory Management Software

Purpose: Monitors stock levels, prevents stockouts and automates reordering.

Examples:

• Fishbowl – Integrates inventory management with accounting software like QuickBooks for better financial tracking.
• Cin7 – Manages inventory across multiple warehouses, ensures accurate stock distribution.
• SimplyDepo – Provides automated inventory synchronization, precise stock level tracking, and real-time inventory insights for optimized replenishment and stock accuracy.

Why It’s Important:

Distributors using automated inventory management systems reduce stockout incidents by 35% and inventory turnover rates, leading to higher profitability. Automated inventory solutions also reduce warehouse labor costs by 20%, simplify operations and reduce excess inventory holding costs.

4. Billing and Invoicing Software

Purpose: Simplifies invoicing, automates payments and ensures smooth financial transactions.

Examples:

• QuickBooks – Easy-to-use invoicing with automated reminders to ensure timely payments.
• Xero – Real-time billing insights and seamless integration with banking systems.

Financial Visibility:

Lack of proper invoicing and billing software results in delayed payments and cash flow issues. Businesses using automated billing solutions see a 20% increase in on-time payments, reduce financial stress and improve operations. Automated invoicing also reduces payment errors by 30%, so businesses can focus on revenue-generating activities instead of chasing payments.

5. CRM (Customer Relationship Management) Software

Purpose: Enhance customer relationships, track sales pipelines and personalize marketing strategies.

Examples:

• Pipeline CRM – Designed for distributors, customizable pipelines for wholesale sales management.
• HubSpot CRM – Free CRM with powerful lead tracking and marketing automation tools.

Why CRM is Important:

A study found that 68% of customers stop doing business with a distributor due to poor customer service. CRM software helps distributors build loyalty, automate follow-ups and ensure seamless interactions with customers. Businesses using CRM software see a 29% increase in sales and 34% customer retention, proving its importance in competitive distribution environments.

6. Supply Chain Management Software (SCM).

Purpose: Optimizes logistics, vendor management and supplier collaboration.

Examples:

• SAP SCM – Enterprise solution for end-to-end supply chain visibility and planning.
• Oracle SCM Cloud – Cloud-based platform for real-time supply chain optimization.

Supply Chain Resilience:

Distributors using SCM solutions see 20% fewer disruptions, reducing risks related to stock shortages and logistics delays. Companies with advanced SCM software also see 15% faster delivery, improved customer satisfaction, and reduced order delays.

All-in-One Solutions for Distributors: A Must-Have for Business Visibility

While individual software solutions address specific needs, all-in-one platforms provide comprehensive functionality that integrates inventory, sales, and financial management on one dashboard. This reduces the need for multiple tools, minimizes data inconsistencies and improves operational efficiency.

SimplyDepo: A Modern All-in-One Solution for Distributors

SimplyDepo is a distribution software that provides a seamless experience for distributors by integrating multiple features:

Order and Inventory Management – Track orders, manage stock levels and avoid stockouts.

Real-Time Reporting – Access detailed analytics to make better business decisions.

Field Sales App – Optimize sales reps’ routes and ensure efficient order capturing on the go.

Integration with Accounting Tools – Sync SimplyDepo with popular financial software for accurate bookkeeping.

Who Uses SimplyDepo?

SimplyDepo is used by mid-sized distributors to manage multi-channel sales, including food distribution, wholesale goods, and consumer packaged products. Its scalable features make it perfect for businesses looking to grow without operational bottlenecks.

For example, HC Foods, an importer and distributor of Thai and Southeast Asian foods, leveraged SimplyDepo to boost sales efficiency, resulting in 15% revenue growth, 120% improved merchandising efficiency, and 30% higher buyer retention.

Choosing the right software for distribution is crucial for inventory accuracy, order processing, and business decision-making. Whether through individual tools or all-in-one solutions like SimplyDepo, distributors can get real-time insights, reduce errors and scale operations efficiently. 

Ready to achieve these results? Schedule your personalized demo and discover how SimplyDepo can help grow your distribution business.