Best Auto Dealership Accounting Software Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best auto dealership accounting software:
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Outdated auto dealership accounting software can make managing finances a headache: tracking transactions start to feel clunky, reconciling accounts takes longer than it should, and generating accurate financial reports becomes a tedious task. These inefficiencies not only slow you down but also make it harder to spot opportunities or address challenges before they escalate.
As a financial controller with years of experience in accounting processes, I’ve been in your shoes. I understand the pressure of managing complex financial systems while keeping your team efficient and your books accurate and how the wrong tool can complicate matters more than is necessary. Over time, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t when it comes to streamlining finances in a dealership setting.
Leveraging my knowledge in financial operations and management, I tested and reviewed a range of tools designed specifically for auto dealerships. The tools in this list will help you simplify accounting tasks, improve reporting, and manage your finances with confidence.
Why Trust Our Software Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing finance and accounting software since 2023. As CFOs ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software. We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions.
We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different finance and accounting use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & check out our software review methodology.
Best Auto Dealership Accounting Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top auto dealership accounting software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | FreshBooks FreshBooks is ideal for auto dealers looking for simple, cloud-based accounting tools. | Best for simple invoicing needs | 30-day free trial | From $10/month (billed annually) | Website |
2 | Wave Wave is perfect for small auto dealerships that focus on free, simple accounting tools. | Best for free accounting tools | 30-day free trial + free plan available | From $14/user/month | Website |
3 | ZarMoney ZarMoney works well for dealerships that need a simple, scalable accounting platform. | Best for automated invoicing and payment tracking | 14-day free trial | From $20/month | Website |
4 | MotorDesk MotorDesk is designed for managing sales invoicing and financial reporting for dealerships. | Best for small to mid-sized auto dealers | Free demo available | From $96/month (billed annually) | Website |
5 | HashMicro HashMicro provides an integrated accounting system for auto dealerships. | Best all-in-one business management system | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
6 | Blackpurl Blackpurl is an all-in-one DMS with integrated accounting for dealerships. | Best for mobile and cloud-based accounting | Free demo available | From $323/month (billed annually) | Website |
7 | Autosoft Autosoft offers specialized accounting solutions tailored to auto dealerships. | Best for integrated CRM and inventory management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
8 | Xero Xero is perfect for small auto dealerships that need a simple, intuitive solution. | Best for multi-currency support | 30-day free trial | From $1.42/month | Website |
9 | SAP S/4HANA Finance SAP S/4HANA Finance is ideal for large dealerships requiring advanced financial management. | Best for ERP integration | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
10 | Dext Dext is best for dealerships focused on automating receipt and invoice processing. | Best for automated expense tracking | Free trial is available | From $20/user/month | Website |
Best Auto Dealership Accounting Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best auto dealership accounting software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer an in-depth look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
FreshBooks is an accounting software designed to help small businesses manage their financial tasks. It focuses on invoicing, expense tracking, and basic reporting. The tool is particularly useful for businesses that need a straightforward solution without complex features.
Why I picked FreshBooks: FreshBooks is ideal for small auto dealerships that need simple invoicing and expense tracking. Its easy-to-use interface allows you to quickly create and send professional invoices, track in-person and online payments, and organize your expenses. You can also categorize your costs and sync them with your bank accounts for easier management. Whether you're managing one vehicle sale or a few, FreshBooks helps you on your finances without overwhelming your team with unnecessary complexity.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable invoices, expense tracking, and time tracking. You can easily add your dealership's logo to invoices and set recurring billing. FreshBooks also lets you track and categorize expenses by project or client for clearer financial insights.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Gusto, Shopify, and Square.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time payment tracking
- Excellent mobile app functionality
- Simple setup process
Cons:
- Lacks inventory management features
- Limited reporting options
Wave is a cloud-based accounting software that helps small businesses manage their financial tasks, such as invoicing, expense tracking, and reporting. It offers essential accounting tools without the need for a paid subscription, making it accessible to businesses with limited resources.
Why I picked Wave: Wave makes it easy for small dealerships to manage their finances with simple features like invoicing and expense tracking, all at no cost. The software automatically imports transactions from your bank accounts, reducing manual data entry. Plus, its reporting tools provide an overview of your financial health, which can help you make informed business decisions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable invoices that help you match your dealership’s branding. The platform also offers simple expense tracking to stay on top of business spending, and automatic transaction imports to reduce manual data entry. Additionally, you can set up recurring invoices for regular clients, making billing easier.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Etsy, Shopify, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Simple to manage taxes and payroll
- Fast setup with no technical knowledge
- Easy to use for small teams
Cons:
- No multi-currency support
- Doesn’t support complex accounting needs
ZarMoney is an accounting software solution designed to simplify financial processes for businesses. The platform serves businesses that require efficient management of their financial transactions with minimal manual effort.
Why I picked ZarMoney: ZarMoney offers automated invoicing and payment tracking. The system generates invoices automatically and tracks payments as they come in, which is ideal for busy dealerships. With ZarMoney, you can easily integrate invoicing and payment tracking into your day-to-day operations without having to manage everything manually.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable invoices to match your branding, ensuring consistency across your communications. ZarMoney also offers real-time financial reporting, so you can stay on top of your business's performance.
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, PayPal, Stripe, Square, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates with popular payment systems
- Customizable reports for financial analysis
- Easy invoicing and payment tracking
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- May take time to set up initially
MotorDesk is an accounting software tailored for small to mid-sized businesses in the automotive industry. It integrates invoicing, reporting, and payment collection in one place.
Why I picked MotorDesk: MotorDesk is designed with car dealers in mind, especially those who need efficient invoicing solutions. It lets you create and manage invoices quickly, reducing administrative time. You can also automate recurring invoices and track payments in real-time. Plus, the tool’s ability to handle detailed invoices, including taxes and discounts, makes it easy to manage day-to-day operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable templates for different vehicle sales. The software also lets you track payments automatically and sends reminders for overdue invoices. Additionally, you can generate financial reports to get a clear overview of your business' performance.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Stripe, PayPal, and Xero.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Simple financial reporting
- Supports multiple payment gateways
- Automated invoicing saves you time
Cons:
- No built-in inventory management
- Limited customization for reports
HashMicro is a fully integrated business management platform designed to handle various business functions, from finance to inventory management. It simplifies processes for organizations by consolidating multiple business operations into one system.
Why I picked HashMicro: HashMicro offers a unified platform that can manage everything from accounting and inventory to payroll and sales in one place. It integrates these functions to provide you with a more direct approach to managing your business. Overall, this helps reduce the need for third-party tools, saving both time and resources.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated invoicing, inventory tracking, and financial reporting. You can easily manage accounts, track expenses, and generate real-time insights into your business. The system also offers payroll processing, helping you manage employee compensation and taxes.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, PayPal, Stripe, Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft Office, HubSpot, Shopify, and WooCommerce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time updates across departments
- Suitable for businesses of all sizes
- Automatic data synchronization across modules
Cons:
- Limited integrations with certain third-party tools
- Requires some time to set up
Blackpurl is a cloud-based software solution designed to help car dealerships manage their accounting and financial processes. It offers a range of features that simplify the day-to-day operations, such as invoicing, payment tracking, and reporting.
Why I picked Blackpurl: Blackpurl is ideal for dealerships looking for a mobile-friendly and cloud-based accounting solution. With features like real-time updates and automatic syncing across devices, you can manage your dealership’s finances from anywhere. The software also integrates key functions such as invoicing and payment processing into a single platform, which makes it easier to keep track of all transactions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include mobile access to help you manage your accounting tasks from anywhere. Transactions and financial records are automatically updated across devices, making sure you're always on top of your business.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Stripe, PayPal, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable for different dealership needs
- Intuitive invoicing process
- Cloud-based access for remote work
Cons:
- Onboarding can be time-consuming
- Limited customer support options
Autosoft is a dealership management platform designed to help auto dealerships manage their financial operations alongside customer relationships and inventory. The software offers tools for accounting, sales, and inventory control in one package.
Why I picked Autosoft: Autosoft simplifies your day-to-day tasks by integrating your accounting with CRM and inventory management. This means you can easily track financials, customer interactions, and vehicle inventory all from one system. You can also monitor your sales pipeline and vehicle stock without jumping between different tools, making it easier for you and your team to stay on top of operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an integrated accounting system that automatically tracks transactions and updates financial records. It also includes a customizable dashboard that lets you monitor key performance indicators and track business health in real-time. Additionally, the platform offers detailed reporting tools to help you analyze financial performance, sales data, and inventory levels all in one place.
Integrations include Dealertrack, RouteOne, Reynolds and Reynolds, CDK Global, and AutoAlert.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated transaction tracking reduces errors
- Customizable dashboard for personalized views
- Tracks both vehicle and parts inventory
Cons:
- May not scale well for larger dealerships
- Some features require additional training
Xero is an online accounting software that helps businesses manage their finances. The software is designed to simplify accounting tasks and improve visibility into your business's financial health.
Why I picked Xero: Xero is ideal for Canadian auto dealers who need multi-currency support. It lets you manage transactions in different currencies, which is especially useful if you deal with international clients or suppliers. You can also easily convert foreign currency amounts and track exchange rates in real time. Additionally, Xero integrates with various payment systems, so you can reconcile accounts quickly and keep records up to date.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time bank feeds and automatic tax calculations. You can link your bank accounts to Xero to pull transactions, making reconciliation quick and easy. The software’s customizable invoices also let you tailor your branding, while automatic tax calculations help you stay compliant with local regulations.
Integrations include Stripe, PayPal, Shopify, HubSpot, and Square.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multi-user access with different permission levels
- Automatic currency exchange rate tracking
- Supports multiple currencies for international transactions
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- May require additional apps for advanced features
SAP S/4HANA Finance is an advanced financial management solution designed to integrate with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. It helps businesses manage financial accounting, financial closing, and financial operations, providing real-time insights into financial data.
Why I picked SAP S/4HANA Finance: SAP S/4HANA Finance is ideal for large-scale auto dealerships looking for an advanced system that integrates finance with other business functions. It enables real-time financial reporting, allowing you to make quicker and more informed decisions. The platform also offers automated financial processes to streamline operations even further.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include integration with SAP's broader ERP suite, which helps manage various business functions from a single platform. You can handle everything from accounting and finance to planning and analysis in real-time. It also provides predictive analytics to give your team insights into future financial trends, helping with decision-making.
Integrations include SAP SuccessFactors, SAP Ariba, SAP Concur, SAP Business Technology Platform, SAP Analytics Cloud, SAP S/4HANA, and SAP Fiori.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Centralizes financial and operational functions
- Advanced analytics for decision-making
- Built for large-scale operations
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise for customization
- Complex implementation process
Dext is an accounting software designed to simplify the tracking and management of expenses. It automates the process of capturing receipts and financial data, helping businesses stay organized and save time.
Why I picked Dext: Dext focuses on automating expense tracking, allowing you to quickly capture and categorize receipts without manual entry. It integrates with your accounting system, so once receipts are uploaded, the data is automatically processed and added to your records. This eliminates the need for manual data input and reduces errors. Whether you're on the go or in the office, Dext's cloud-based access gives you flexibility and convenience for managing your dealership’s expenses.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated receipt scanning, allowing you to capture expenses on the go. The software also sorts receipts into categories, so you don’t have to spend time organizing them manually. Additionally, Dext offers multi-user access, making it easy for your team to collaborate and stay on the same page.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Sage, MYOB, and NetSuite.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Saves time on manual data entry
- Easily integrates with popular accounting software
- Automatically categorizes expenses
Cons:
- Can be slow when processing large batches
- Limited customization options for categories
Other Auto Dealership Accounting Software
Here are some additional auto dealership accounting software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- PBS Systems
For specialized reporting
- MYOB
For payroll and tax compliance needs
- Zoho Books
For multi-currency transactions
- QuickBooks
For detailed financial reporting
- Sage Accounting
For VAT compliance
- Keeper
For secure document storage
Auto Dealership Accounting Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best auto dealership accounting software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like inventory management and regulatory compliance. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Manage financial transactions and balance sheets
- Track inventory levels
- Generate financial reports
- Handle invoicing and billing
- Ensure regulatory compliance
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Real-time data analytics
- Customizable dashboards
- Multi-currency support
- Advanced tax management
- Integration with CRM systems
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive user interface
- Minimal learning curve
- Efficient navigation
- Customizable workflows
- Responsive design
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to templates
- Availability of webinars
- Use of chatbots for support
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels
- Knowledgeable support staff
- Fast response times
- Comprehensive help center
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Features offered at each price tier
- Scalability of the pricing model
- Transparency of pricing structure
- Discounts for long-term contracts
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Positive feedback on features
- Reports of reliability
- User satisfaction with support
- Value perceived by a number of users
- Frequency of updates and improvements
- Good overall customer experience
How to Choose Auto Dealership Accounting Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
Factor | What to Consider |
Scalability | Ensure the software grows with your dealership. Consider tools that support expanding inventory and multiple locations as your business evolves. |
Integrations | Check if the software integrates with existing systems like CRM and inventory management to streamline operations and data sharing. |
Customizability | Look for software that allows you to tailor reports and interfaces to fit your dealership’s specific processes and preferences. |
Ease of Use | Choose a user-friendly interface that your team can quickly adapt to, minimizing training time and maximizing productivity. |
Budget | Assess pricing models to ensure they align with your financial constraints without compromising essential features. |
Security Safeguards | Verify strong data protection and compliance with industry regulations to safeguard your sensitive financial information. |
Trends In Auto Dealership Accounting Software
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different auto dealership accounting software vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- AI-Driven Analytics: More vendors are using AI to provide deeper insights into financial data. This helps dealerships forecast trends and make informed decisions. For example, some software now offers predictive analytics to spot issues before they arise.
- Blockchain For Transactions: Blockchain is being incorporated to ensure secure and transparent transactions. This technology offers a tamper-proof record of transactions, which is particularly useful in maintaining trust with customers.
- Cloud-Based Security Enhancements: As data security remains a top concern, vendors are prioritizing cloud-based security features. These enhancements protect sensitive financial data against breaches and unauthorized access.
- Sustainability Tracking: With environmental concerns growing, some software now includes features that track and report on sustainability metrics. This helps dealerships reduce their carbon footprint and meet regulatory requirements.
- Remote Collaboration Tools: As remote work becomes more common, accounting software is integrating features that support collaboration from different locations. This includes real-time document sharing and communication tools, making sure teams stay connected.
What Is Auto Dealership Accounting Software?
Auto dealership accounting software is a tool designed to manage the financial needs specific to auto dealerships, including transactions, inventory, and compliance. They are generally used by finance professionals and dealership managers who need to keep track of financial data and ensure efficient operations.
These tools generally offer key features like AI-driven analytics, blockchain transactions, and cloud-based security enhancements to help with forecasting, secure transactions, and data protection. Overall, auto dealership accounting software provides valuable insights and efficiency that help dealerships operate smoothly and profitably.
Features of Auto Dealership Accounting Software
When selecting auto dealership accounting software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Inventory Management: Tracks stock levels and sales trends to ensure optimal inventory control.
- AI-Driven Analytics: Provides insights into financial data to help forecast trends and make informed decisions.
- Blockchain Transactions: Ensures secure and transparent financial transactions with a tamper-proof record.
- Cloud-Based Security: Protects sensitive financial data against breaches and unauthorized access.
- Multi-Currency Support: Manages transactions in various currencies, useful for international dealings.
- Customizable Reporting: Generates tailored financial reports to meet specific dealership needs.
- Automated Billing: Reduces manual errors and saves time by automating invoice processing.
- Real-Time Data Synchronization: Keeps all locations updated with the latest information, supporting multi-location management.
- Sustainability Tracking: Monitors and reports on sustainability metrics to help reduce the carbon footprint.
- Remote Collaboration Tools: Supports teamwork across different locations through document sharing and communication features.
Benefits of Auto Dealership Accounting Software
Implementing auto dealership accounting software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved Financial Accuracy: Automated billing and AI-driven analytics reduce errors and enhance the precision of financial data.
- Enhanced Security: Blockchain transactions and cloud-based security features safeguard sensitive data against unauthorized access.
- Efficient Inventory Control: Inventory management helps keep track of stock levels and sales trends, optimizing inventory levels.
- Time Savings: Automated bookkeeping processes like accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, and reporting free up time for your team to focus on other tasks.
- Informed Decision-Making: Real-time data synchronization and customizable reporting provide insights that support strategic decisions.
- Regulatory Compliance: Features like sustainability tracking and compliance support ensure adherence to local and international regulations.
- Better Collaboration: Remote collaboration tools facilitate teamwork across different locations, keeping your team connected and productive.
Costs and Pricing of Auto Dealership Accounting Software
Selecting auto dealership accounting software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in auto dealership accounting software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Auto Dealership Accounting Software
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free Plan | $0 | Basic invoicing, expense tracking, limited financial reports and integrations. |
Personal Plan | $10-$30/month | Custom invoices, automatic transaction imports, recurring billing and reports. |
Business Plan | $30-$70/month | Advanced reporting, payroll management, tax calculations, and multiple users. |
Enterprise Plan | $70-$150/month | Full custom reporting, multi-location support, advanced integrations, and priority support. |
Auto Dealership Accounting Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about auto dealership accounting software:
Can auto dealership accounting software integrate with my existing systems?
Many auto dealership accounting software options support integrations with CRM systems, point-of-sale software, and inventory management tools. Be sure to check the list of native integrations for each solution to ensure compatibility with your existing dealer management systems. If custom integrations are required, you may want to confirm whether the software can handle that or if you’ll need third-party tools.
How long does it take to implement auto dealership accounting software?
The implementation timeline depends on the complexity of the software and how much data needs to be imported. Simple solutions may take a few days to set up, while more complex systems might require several weeks. You’ll want to consider the time needed for training and the setup of integrations with other tools. It’s a good idea to plan for some initial troubleshooting during the first few weeks.
How secure is my data with auto dealership accounting software?
Most reputable auto dealer accounting software providers use industry-standard encryption and security protocols to protect your data. Your financial information, customer details, and other sensitive data will typically be stored in secure cloud environments. However, it’s important to verify the security measures each provider has in place, such as multi-factor authentication and regular software updates.
Is it easy to customize auto dealership accounting software to fit my needs?
Customization options vary by software provider. Many systems offer customizable templates for invoices, reports, and other documents. If your automotive dealership has specific needs, like tracking certain expenses or generating unique financial reports, make sure the software allows for this level of customization. Some solutions offer API access for deeper integrations and customizations if needed.
What’s Next?
Ready to compound your abilities as a finance professional? Subscribe to our free newsletter.