Top free 8 inventory management software for small business for 2025

Struggling to keep your small business inventory organized without spending a fortune? This article highlights the top 8 free inventory software options designed to meet the needs of small businesses. Discover tools that can simplify your inventory processes and boost efficiency.

Key takeaways

• Small businesses benefit from inventory management software by reducing manual errors, automating processes, and making data-driven decisions to optimize stock levels.

• Key features to look for in free inventory management software include barcode scanning, automated purchase orders, integration with existing systems, and advanced reporting capabilities.

• The right inventory management software can significantly enhance operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and overall business growth for small businesses.

What is inventory management software?

Inventory management software helps businesses track stock levels, monitor movements, and optimize supply chain operations. Automating tasks and providing real-time inventory visibility reduces manual errors and improves efficiency. This software benefits businesses of all sizes, especially those dealing with physical products like retailers, wholesalers, and manufacturers.

With the right inventory management system, companies can maintain optimal stock levels, preventing overstocking or shortages. This ensures timely order fulfillment, enhances customer satisfaction, and improves operational efficiency. Automated tracking and alerts help businesses stay proactive in managing inventory needs.

Beyond stock control, inventory management software offers data-driven insights into trends and performance. Businesses can analyze sales patterns, forecast demand, and make informed purchasing decisions, ultimately driving growth and profitability.

Why small businesses need inventory management software

Choosing the right inventory management software can be a game-changer for small businesses. By automating routine tasks, inventory management software allows businesses to concentrate on strategic growth, ultimately boosting their bottom line.

Balance supply with customer demands

Balancing supply with customer demands is crucial for small businesses to maintain a competitive edge. Free inventory tracking software can help by providing real-time insights into stock levels and customer preferences.

This allows businesses to adjust their inventory in response to changing market trends and consumer needs. By optimizing stock levels, small businesses can prevent stockouts and overstocking to meet customer demands efficiently.

Reduce manual errors and save time

Implementing inventory management software significantly reduces manual errors during inventory counts and data entry. Automated processes streamline inventory tracking, allowing businesses to save time and focus on more strategic tasks.

By minimizing human error, businesses can maintain accurate inventory records, which are essential for making informed decisions. This efficiency not only saves time but also enhances small businesses' overall productivity.

Make data-driven decisions

Data-driven decision-making is a key advantage of using inventory management software. With access to detailed analytics and reports, small businesses can gain valuable insights into inventory trends and performance.

This information enables them to make informed decisions regarding stock levels, pricing strategies, and purchasing patterns. By leveraging data, businesses can optimize their operations and drive growth, ultimately improving their bottom line.

Improve customer satisfaction

Enhancing customer satisfaction is a primary goal for any small business, and efficient inventory management plays a significant role in achieving this. Businesses can consistently meet customer expectations by ensuring that products are always in stock and orders are fulfilled promptly.

Inventory management software helps track inventory in real time, reducing the risk of stockouts and ensuring timely delivery. Satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend the business to others, fostering long-term loyalty.

Streamline operations for business growth

Streamlining operations is essential for small businesses aiming for growth and expansion. Inventory management software automates routine tasks, freeing up resources and time for strategic initiatives.

By integrating with existing systems like accounting and CRM, businesses can create a seamless workflow that enhances operational efficiency. This streamlined approach reduces costs and positions small businesses for sustainable growth and success in a competitive market.

Key features to look for in free inventory management software

Choosing the right free inventory management system can transform your small business operations by enhancing efficiency and accuracy. Evaluating software options based on usability, features, and suitability for small and midsize businesses can help you find the best fit.

Look for the following features in your ideal solution:

• Inventory tracking: Tracking inventory levels in real-time, ensuring accurate stock records.

• Barcode scanning: Enhances accuracy in stock tracking and reduces time spent on manual inventory counts, ensuring up-to-date records.

• Automated purchase orders: Saves time and prevents stockouts by automatically generating orders when stock reaches a designated threshold.

• Daily stock alerts: Notifies you when it’s time to reorder, preventing shortages and maintaining smooth operations.

• Integration capabilities: Seamlessly connects with existing business tools like accounting and CRM systems to streamline processes and reduce errors.

• Advanced reporting and analytics: Provides insights into inventory status and usage patterns, allowing for informed decision-making and optimized stock levels.

How to choose the right inventory management software?

Choosing the right free inventory management software can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available in the market. To make the right choice, businesses need to consider their specific needs and requirements. 

Determine your needs

Before selecting a free inventory management software, businesses must determine their specific needs and requirements. This includes identifying the type of inventory they need to manage, the number of users accessing the software, and the level of complexity required.

Businesses should also consider their budget and whether they need advanced features or integrations. Understanding these needs will help narrow the options and ensure the chosen software aligns with the business’s operational goals.

Consider advanced inventory management tools

While free inventory management software can be a great starting point, businesses may need to consider advanced inventory management tools as they grow. These tools can include features such as low stock alerts, vendor management, and inventory valuation.

Advanced inventory management tools can provide deeper insights and more robust functionalities, helping businesses manage their inventory more effectively.

List of the best inventory management software for small businesses in 2025

Choosing the right inventory management software can be a game-changer for small-scale businesses seeking growth. The ideal solution should support various sales channels, manage orders efficiently, and produce detailed analytical reports.

Here are the top 8 free inventory management software options for small businesses in 2025, each offering unique features to cater to different business needs:

1. GroWrk
2. Zoho Inventory
3. Fishbowl
4. Korona POS
5. Helcim
6. UpKeep
7. inFlow
8. Sortly

GroWrk: A comprehensive solution for all IT needs

GroWrk is a global IT lifecycle management platform that automates every stage of the IT asset lifecycle. This end-to-end solution integrates AI to enhance efficiency and streamline IT operations.

GroWrk offers a pay-as-you-go option that gives you free access to its inventory management software. You only pay for procurement, retrieval, or storage actions. Two other pricing tiers with extensive integrations facilitate seamless management of global IT estates, making it ideal for businesses with worldwide operations.

Pros:

• Three pricing tiers

• Extensive integrations for streamlined process management.

• Advanced security features, including mobile device management and identity management.

• AI-driven support with a real-time chatbot for instant assistance.

• Unmatched global reach, supporting deployment and retrieval in over 150 countries.

Cons:

• Some advanced features might be limited to premium plans.

Review: GroWrk is a top-tier free inventory management system, particularly for businesses with global IT needs. Its AI-driven functionalities and extensive integrations offer a seamless experience managing IT resources. The platform's transparent pricing and pay-as-you-go option make it accessible to businesses of all sizes. With real-time insights and robust security features, GroWrk provides a comprehensive solution for efficient inventory management and operational control. Its global reach and AI-powered support further enhance its appeal, making it a recommended choice for businesses seeking advanced inventory management tools.

Zoho Inventory: Ideal for small teams

Zoho Inventory is versatile, free inventory software tailored for small businesses with limited inventory needs. Its free plan supports organizations with a single warehouse and can handle up to 50 orders and 50 shipping labels per month. 

Pros:

• Supports tracking inventory across multiple sales channels, enhancing operational efficiency.

• Real-time inventory tracking for accurate stock monitoring as sales occur.

• The free plan includes basic order management, item grouping, and support for dropshipping and back-ordering.

• Allows management of up to two locations, beneficial for businesses with multiple stock points.

Cons:

• Free plan is limited to a single user, which may restrict scalability for growing businesses.

• Advanced inventory management features are reserved for premium plans.

Review: Zoho Inventory is robust, unrestricted inventory management software, especially suited for small businesses with straightforward inventory needs. Its real-time inventory tracking and multi-channel support ensure enterprises maintain accurate stock levels and optimize operations. While the free plan has some limitations, it provides essential tools for effective inventory management without additional costs. Zoho Inventory offers a user-friendly interface for small teams and valuable functionalities, making it a reliable choice for managing inventory efficiently and supporting future growth.

Fishbowl: Real-time inventory updates

Fishbowl is exceptional free inventory tracking software that offers real-time inventory updates. It is ideal for small businesses seeking accurate stock records. Its advanced inventory management tools provide visibility across all locations, enhancing operational control and facilitating informed decision-making. 

Pros:

• Real-time visibility into inventory across multiple locations, enhancing operational control.

• The automated reordering feature streamlines purchasing processes, reducing human error.

• Effective management of product options and customizations, ideal for diverse product offerings.

• Helps prevent overselling and reduces the risk of stockouts, ensuring customer satisfaction.

Cons:

• Initial setup may require a learning curve for some users.

• Some advanced features may require a paid plan for full access.

Review: Fishbowl is a versatile and user-friendly inventory management software that empowers small businesses with real-time tracking and automated reordering capabilities. The software’s ability to manage product options and customizations makes it a valuable tool for businesses with diverse offerings. While there may be a slight learning curve, the benefits of enhanced operational control and reduced risk of stockouts make Fishbowl a worthy investment for small businesses looking to optimize their inventory management processes. With its focus on providing accurate stock records and preventing overselling, Fishbowl delivers a comprehensive solution that supports business growth and customer satisfaction.

KORONA POS: Automated stock notifications

KORONA POS is an intuitive, free inventory management system designed to streamline inventory processes for small businesses. With its automated stock notifications, it ensures that retailers are always informed about low-stock, overstock, and out-of-stock inventory items. 

Pros:

• Automated notifications for low-stock, overstock, and out-of-stock items, ensuring proactive inventory management.

• Menu badge feature provides a quick inventory status overview, improving stock issue responsiveness.

• Automated counting processes generate lists for regular inventory checks, saving time and reducing human error.

• Enhances inventory efficiency by maintaining optimal stock levels, allowing businesses to focus on strategic growth.

Cons:

• Initial setup might require a learning curve for some users unfamiliar with automated systems.

• Advanced features may require transitioning to a paid plan for full functionality.

Review: KORONA POS is user-friendly inventory management software that offers valuable automation features for small businesses. Its automated stock notifications and counting processes ensure businesses can efficiently manage their inventory without the risk of human error. While there may be a slight learning curve, the benefits of maintaining accurate stock levels and enhancing operational efficiency make KORONA POS a recommended choice for small businesses aiming to streamline their inventory management processes. With its focus on automation and real-time notifications, KORONA POS supports businesses in achieving better inventory control and customer satisfaction.

Helcim: Integrated payment processing

Helcim is a free inventory management system that combines low-cost payment processing with robust inventory management tools. This integration provides a comprehensive solution for budget-conscious small business owners who need to manage their inventory without incurring extra expenses. 

Pros:

• Offers integrated payment processing and inventory management at no additional cost, ideal for budget-conscious businesses.

• Real-time tracking of sales and inventory levels, providing valuable insights for informed decision-making.

• Flexibility in managing multiple locations and product variants, supporting business scalability.

• Detailed sales reports that integrate payment processing data with inventory management insights for comprehensive analysis.

Cons:

• May require a learning curve for unlimited users new to integrated systems.

• Some advanced features might be limited to premium plans.

Review: Helcim is efficient and cost-effective inventory management software for small businesses. Its integration of payment processing with inventory management tools streamlines operations and enhances efficiency. The system's flexibility in managing multiple locations and product variants makes it suitable for growing businesses. While there might be a slight learning curve, the benefits of real-time tracking and comprehensive reporting make Helcim a valuable asset for small businesses looking to optimize their inventory management processes. With its robust features and cost-effective approach, Helcim supports business growth and operational control.

UpKeep: Efficient order fulfillment and stock management

UpKeep is a leading free inventory management software that provides real-time visibility into stock levels, asset locations, and usage patterns. By leveraging AI-driven functionalities, UpKeep automates repetitive tasks and optimizes stock levels based on predictive analytics. 

Pros:

• Real-time visibility into stock levels and asset locations, facilitating informed decision-making.

• AI-driven functionalities automate tasks and optimize stock levels, reducing human error.

• Enhances customer satisfaction through timely order fulfillment, leading to repeat business.

• Streamlines operations, allowing businesses to focus on strategic growth initiatives.

Cons:

• May require a learning curve for businesses new to AI-driven systems.

• Some advanced features might be limited to premium plans.

Review: UpKeep is an exceptional free inventory management system that empowers small businesses with real-time tracking and AI-driven functionalities. The software's ability to predict stock needs and automate tasks ensures businesses maintain optimal stock levels and enhance customer satisfaction through timely order fulfillment. While there might be a learning curve, improved operational efficiency and reduced human error make UpKeep a valuable asset for small businesses aiming to streamline their inventory management processes and support future growth.

inFlow Inventory: Ideal for limited product lines

inFlow Inventory is a robust free inventory management software designed for small businesses with limited product lines. The free version allows the management of up to 100 products and customers, making it an efficient solution for businesses that do not require extensive inventory capabilities. 

Pros:

• It manages up to 100 products and customers, which is ideal for businesses with limited product lines.

• Offers 44 different types of reports, providing valuable insights into inventory status and usage patterns.

• Facilitates data analysis to help businesses make informed decisions about stock levels.

• The free plan supports effective inventory software management, optimizing small business operations.

Cons:

• It requires a paid license for businesses that need to manage more than 100 products.

• It may not offer extensive features required by larger businesses with complex inventory needs.

Review: inFlow Inventory is a top choice for small businesses seeking a reliable free inventory management system. Its ability to efficiently manage up to 100 products makes it suitable for businesses with limited product lines. The software's comprehensive reporting capabilities provide critical insights that support informed decision-making and inventory optimization. While the free plan may have limitations, it is an excellent option for small businesses looking to streamline their inventory processes without incurring additional costs. Upgrading to a paid plan can unlock further features and scalability for those with more extensive needs.

Sortly: Customizable dashboards for easy tracking

Sortly is a versatile free software for inventory management known for its customizable dashboards, which allow businesses to create tailored views of the most relevant metrics. With a mobile app for real-time inventory management, Sortly is particularly beneficial for companies with multiple warehouses or locations, offering seamless inventory monitoring on the go.

Pros:

• Customizable dashboards for tailored views of important inventory metrics, enhancing decision-making and efficiency.

• The Mobile app provides real-time inventory management, which is ideal for businesses with multiple locations.

• The intuitive interface reduces the learning curve, making it accessible to non-tech-savvy users.

• Segmenting products into multiple categories improves organization and accessibility.

Cons:

• Some advanced features may require upgrading to a paid plan for full functionality.

• Limited scalability for businesses with extensive inventory needs.

Review: Sortly stands out as an intuitive and user-friendly inventory management software, offering customizable dashboards that empower businesses to focus on the most critical inventory metrics. Its mobile app ensures real-time inventory tracking, making it suitable for businesses with multiple locations. While the free plan provides essential functionalities, some advanced features may require a paid upgrade. Overall, Sortly is an excellent choice for small businesses seeking a straightforward yet effective inventory management solution that enhances efficiency and supports informed decision-making.

Best practices for using inventory software

Implementing inventory software effectively requires a strategic approach to maximize its benefits. Here are some best practices to consider:

Set clear objectives

Before deploying inventory software, define your business goals and how the software will help you achieve them. This clarity will ensure that the software aligns with your operational needs and drives desired outcomes.

Train your team

Ensure that all team members are adequately trained to use the software. Familiarity with its features and functionalities will reduce errors and improve efficiency. Regular training sessions can keep everyone up-to-date with new features or updates.

Integrate with existing systems

Choose inventory software that integrates seamlessly with your existing business systems, such as accounting software and CRM tools. This integration streamlines operations and provides a comprehensive view of your business processes.

Utilize real-time tracking

Leverage the software's real-time tracking capabilities to monitor inventory levels continuously. This feature helps you make informed decisions, prevent stockouts, and optimize stock levels.

Regularly review and analyze data

Review inventory data regularly using advanced reporting and analytics features. Analyzing trends and performance can inform purchasing decisions and inventory strategies, driving business growth.

Automate routine tasks

Use the software to automate routine inventory tasks like reordering and stock alerts. Automation minimizes manual errors, saves time, and allows your team to focus on more strategic activities.

Monitor vendor performance

Utilize the software to track vendor performance and ensure timely deliveries. Effective vendor management can improve supply chain efficiency and maintain optimal.

Why businesses choose GroWrk for IT inventory management

Managing IT inventory across multiple locations can be complex, costly, and time-consuming. GroWrk simplifies the process with an intelligent, automated platform designed for global IT asset management. Here’s why businesses trust GroWrk for their inventory needs:

• End-to-end IT Asset Management: 
  Automates procurement, deployment, retrieval, and disposal, reducing manual effort and improving efficiency.
  
  
• Real-time inventory tracking:
  Provides full visibility into IT assets across multiple locations with centralized monitoring and reporting.
  
  
• Seamless integrations: 
  Connects with 40+ platforms, ensuring compatibility with existing IT workflows and procurement systems.
  
  
• AI-driven support:
  Provides real-time troubleshooting and operational support, ensuring minimal downtime and fast issue resolution.
  
  
• Global scalability:
  Supports IT operations in 150+ countries with localized logistics, procurement, and compliance management.
  
  
• Transparent pricing & cost control:
  No hidden fees, pay-as-you-go options, and predictable costs for better budgeting.
  
  
• Sustainable IT Lifecycle Management:
  Enables responsible recycling, refurbishment, and redeployment of IT assets to reduce environmental impact.

Scale your business with GroWrk—schedule a demo today to see how our platform simplifies IT inventory management and supports your growth.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main benefit of using inventory management software for small businesses?

The main benefit of using inventory management software for small businesses is that it automates live inventory tracking, ensuring accurate records and enhancing customer satisfaction. This efficiency allows businesses to focus on growth and improving service.

What are some key features to look for in free inventory management software?

When selecting free inventory management software, prioritize features such as barcode scanning, automated purchase orders, low stock alerts, integration capabilities, and advanced reporting and analytics. These functionalities can significantly enhance your inventory management efficiency.

How does Zoho Inventory's free plan benefit small businesses?

Zoho Inventory's free plan benefits small businesses by enabling them to efficiently manage inventory across two locations and multiple sales channels, while also providing essential order management features. This allows small businesses to streamline operations without incurring costs.

What makes GroWrk a comprehensive solution for IT needs?

GroWrk stands out as a comprehensive solution for IT needs by automating every stage of the IT asset lifecycle and providing extensive integrations along with advanced security features. Its AI-driven support and unmatched global reach further enhance its effectiveness in managing IT resources efficiently.

How does Fishbowl enhance inventory management for small businesses?

Fishbowl enhances inventory management for small businesses by providing real-time inventory updates, automated reordering, and the ability to manage multiple locations, which helps maintain accurate stock records and prevents overselling or stockouts.