22 Best ERP For The Apparel Industry Reviewed In 2024
Best Apparel ERP Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 22 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Finding the right enterprise resource planning (ERP) software for your apparel business can be pretty challenging. You want to manage your inventory, orders, and production, but with so many options on the market, it can quickly become overwhelming.
To make things easier, I’ve put my extensive experience with ERP software to good use by testing and reviewing several options tailored for the apparel industry. Whether you're running a small business or a large enterprise, my detailed reviews will help you navigate the ERP shopping process, ultimately guiding you to a solution that boosts productivity and streamlines your operations.
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Best ERP for the Apparel Industry Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| NetSuite | Pricing upon request | Website |
| MRPeasy | From $49/user/month | Website |
| TallyPrime | From $630/user (one-time charge) | Website |
| Uphance | From $199/user/month (billed annually, min 3 users) | Website |
| Aptean Apparel (RLM Edition) | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Sync | Pricing upon request | Website |
| AIMS 360 | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Trimit | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Infor | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Apparel Business Systems | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow to Choose an ERP for the Apparel Industry
As you work through your own unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Scalability: It’s important to make sure that your chosen ERP software can grow with your business. If you’re planning to expand your product lines or enter new markets, the software should be able to handle increased data volume and complexity without slowing down.
- Inventory Management: Since apparel businesses often deal with many SKUs, sizes, and colors, effective inventory management helps prevent stockouts and overstock situations, ensuring you can meet customer demand efficiently.
- Customization: Along with scalability, your ERP software should adapt to your specific business processes and unique workflows, successfully managing everything from design to production to sales.
- Integration Capabilities: Check if your ERP software can integrate with other systems you use, like e-commerce platforms, accounting software, and supply chain management tools.
- User-Friendly Interface: A user-friendly interface is important for quick adoption by your team. If the software is intuitive and easy to navigate, it reduces the learning curve and increases productivity. This is especially important in the fast-paced apparel industry where time is of the essence.
By considering factors like scalability, inventory management, customization, integration capabilities, and user-friendly interfaces, you can find a solution that aligns perfectly with your unique business needs and sets you up for success in a competitive market.
Best ERP for the Apparel Industry Software Reviews
This section provides an in-depth analysis and overview of each apparel ERP software. Below, we will walk through the pros and cons of each tool, their features, and their best use cases to help you find the best ERP software.
NetSuite is a comprehensive cloud-based business management software that integrates various functionalities such as ERP, financial management, CRM, and ecommerce into a single platform.
Why I picked NetSuite: The platform offers real-time visibility through role-based reports, dashboards, and key performance indicators (KPIs). This feature is crucial for apparel companies, where market trends and consumer preferences can change rapidly. By leveraging real-time data, companies can make informed decisions, optimize inventory levels, and reduce the risk of overstocking or stockouts.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include multi-currency and multi-language support, tax management, global business management tools, planning, budgeting, forecasting, inventory management, order management, warehouse management, supply chain management, and procurement tools.
Integrations include Shopify, Adobe Commerce, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Stripe, ADP, Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk, Tableau, Square, Vend, Lightspeed Retail, Clover, Revel Systems, and Freshdesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good automation features
- Scalable for businesses of all sizes
- Highly customizable with over 30 modules
Cons:
- Extensive features can be overwhelming for new users
- Can be expensive for small businesses who don't need customization
MRPeasy is a cloud-based ERP designed to meet the needs of small to mid-sized manufacturers. It offers a range of tools that help manage different aspects of production, from planning to procurement.
Why I picked MRPeasy: I like that it offers tailored production planning, inventory tracking, and order management. Apparel manufacturers often deal with fluctuating demand and multiple production lines, and MRPeasy helps manage these complexities by offering detailed tracking of raw materials and finished goods. Its bill of materials feature is ideal for manufacturers needing to handle multi-level product structures, including variants like size and color, making it easy to manage diverse product lines with accuracy.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include procurement tools, CRM sales management, purchasing management, a built-in B2B customer portal, and end-to-end traceability, which includes tracking serial numbers, batches, and expiration dates. It also supports sending quotations and invoices.
Integrations include Amazon, BigCommerce, EDI, HubSpot, Magento, Pipedrive, QuickBooks Online, Salesforce, ShipStation, Shopify, Ware2Go, WooCommerce, Xero, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Reliable quality control features
- Strong production planning tools
- Accurate inventory management
Cons:
- Learning curve for new users
- Not as flexible for larger companies
TallyPrime is an ERP software designed to simplify complex business operations for the apparel industry, offering tools for inventory management, accounting, and compliance. It helps fashion businesses streamline their financial and operational processes effectively.
Why I picked TallyPrime: TallyPrime's strong reputation in financial management makes it an ideal choice for apparel businesses needing advanced accounting capabilities. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible even for non-technical users. Additionally, TallyPrime’s compliance features set it apart from other apparel ERP software.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable reports, efficient stock movement, and better control over cash flow. It also supports real-time access to business reports from any device and ensures data safety even during network disruptions.
Integrations include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, PayPal, Stripe, QuickBooks, Zoho CRM, Salesforce, Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, and Amazon.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Data safety features
- Real-time report access
- Intuitive interface
Cons:
- Limited integration options
- Limited advanced features
Uphance is an ERP software tailored for the apparel industry, offering tools for managing inventory, production, sales, and more. It’s designed to streamline operations and improve efficiency for fashion businesses.
Why I picked Uphance: Uphance's user-friendly design and advanced feature set are specifically crafted for apparel companies. Its standout feature is the integration of production and inventory management, which is particularly useful for keeping track of manufacturing processes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include product lifecycle management, order management, inventory management, production management, warehouse management, B2B platform, and a mobile sales app.
Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, QuickBooks, Xero, Amazon, eBay, JOOR, ShipStation, Mailchimp, and Stripe.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration capabilities
- Industry-specific design
- Advanced feature set
Cons:
- Limited advanced analytics
- Minimum user requirement
Aptean Apparel (RLM Edition) is a cloud-based ERP system tailored for the apparel industry, offering solutions for design, sourcing, production, and distribution. It aims to streamline operations and enhance productivity for fashion businesses.
Why I pcked Aptean Apparel (RLM Edition): Aptean Apparel's (RLM Edition) capabilities in managing omnichannel fulfillment are vital for modern apparel businesses. Its ability to integrate with major e-commerce platforms and marketplaces sets it apart from other ERP solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include inventory management, production planning, and financial reporting. It also provides over 100 pre-built reports tailored for the fashion industry, enabling faster and more informed decision-making.
Integrations include Shopify, Magento, Amazon, FarFetch, eBay, QuickBooks, FedEx, UPS, DHL, Microsoft Dynamics 365, and Salesforce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time data visibility
- Extensive e-commerce integrations
- Comprehensive omnichannel fulfillment
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Complex implementation process
Sync is an advanced ERP and PLM software solution tailored for the apparel industry. It excels in providing accurate garment costing, ensuring precise cost calculations for locally sourced and imported products.
Why I picked Sync: Sync’s strong costing module stands out in the apparel ERP market. Its ability to accurately calculate costs for various garment types, including fabric, trims, and transportation, makes it indispensable for businesses focused on precise cost management. This feature is vital for maintaining profitability and competitive pricing in the apparel industry.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include style costing, inventory management, critical path tracking, and scan and pack functionalities. The software also includes modules for PLM, allocation, tech pack, and materials purchasing.
Integrations include Shopify, Magento, Amazon, FarFetch, QuickBooks, Xero, ShipStation, Dropbox, and Adobe.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time reporting
- Comprehensive modules
- Accurate costing
Cons:
- May require training for new users
- Initial setup complexity
AIMS 360 is a leading apparel ERP software designed to streamline the workflow for fashion businesses. It offers an advanced suite of features tailored to the unique needs of apparel businesses.
Why I picked AIMS 360: AIMS 360 offers a specialized solution tailored to the apparel industry, addressing unique challenges with precision. The tool's advanced features for inventory and order management make it stand out from other fashion ERP software. Furthermore, its user-friendly interface and real-time data capabilities make it a preferred choice for efficient business operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include inventory management, order processing, production tracking capabilities, advanced EDI capabilities, B2B and B2C e-commerce support, and customer management tools.
Integrations include Shopify, EDI, Dropship, ShipStation, 3PL, UPS, FedEx, and USPS.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable for all business sizes
- Real-time inventory tracking
- Industry-specific features
Cons:
- May require extensive setup
- Limited integration options
Trimit is an advanced ERP solution tailored for the fashion and apparel industry. It offers valuable features to help teams manage everything from design to delivery, streamlining the entire production process.
Why I picked Trimit: Trimit provides end-to-end solutions specifically designed for fashion and apparel businesses. This tool stands out due to its deep integration with Microsoft Dynamics 365, ensuring smooth operations across various business functions. Additionally, its advanced features for managing product lifecycle and supply chain make it an exceptional choice compared to other apparel ERP software.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include collection management, product data management, manufacturing automation, financial management, inventory and logistics tracking, reporting, sales agent and supplier portals, sustainability reporting, and B2B/B2C webshops.
Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, Microsoft Office 365, Microsoft Power BI, Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, QuickBooks, Xero, Salesforce, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong Microsoft integration
- Comprehensive feature set
- AI-driven supply chain
Cons:
- Lack of reporting customization
- Complex setup
Infor offers apparel ERP software designed specifically for the fashion industry. It provides comprehensive tools to manage production, supply chain, and customer relationships.
Why I picked Infor: Infor provides an industry-specific ERP solution with advanced analytics and deep supply chain management capabilities. This tool stands out due to its extensive customization options and real-time data insights, which are vital for fashion businesses. Moreover, its cloud-based infrastructure ensures scalability and accessibility, setting it apart from other apparel ERP software.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include inventory management, advanced customization options, seamless integration capabilities, user-friendly interface, real-time data analytics, industry-specific functionality, comprehensive supply chain management, mobile accessibility, and cloud-based deployment.
Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics 365, Salesforce, Shopify, Amazon, Google Analytics, QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong supply chain tools
- Industry-specific features
- AI-powered insights
Cons:
- Limited customer support
- Complex user interface
Apparel Business Systems is an advanced ERP software designed specifically for the apparel industry, offering a suite of tools to manage inventory, order processing, production, and financials. It aims to improve operational efficiency and streamline business processes for apparel companies.
Why I picked Apparel Business Systems: Apparel Business Systems has extensive experience and specialization in the apparel industry. Its integration of inventory management with financials is particularly impressive, providing a holistic view of business operations. Furthermore, Apparel Business Systems’ strong order processing capabilities make it a standout choice among other apparel ERP software.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include product and inventory management, apparel manufacturing and production, sales and ordering, logistics and fulfillment, and finance and accounting.
Integrations include Shopify, Magento, Amazon, FarFetch, QuickBooks, ShipStation, UPS, FedEx, Joor, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive industry experience
- Strong integration capabilities
- Comprehensive multi-channel management
Cons:
- Limited information on customization options
- Potentially complex setup
Other ERPs for the Apparel Industry
Below is a list of additional ERPs for the apparel industry that I shortlisted. While they didn’t make the top 10, they’re still valuable and worth further research.
- ApparelMagic
Best for affordable and customizable ERP
- Fashion Flow
Best for flexible and intuitive apparel ERP
- World Fashion Exchange
Best for sustainable fashion manufacturing
- Deskera
Best for comprehensive business automation
- WhereFour
Best for material requirements planning
- Brightpearl
Best for retail and wholesale operations
- Acumatica
Best for scalability and flexibility
- Navigator
Best for consumer products ERP solutions
- Katana
Best for visual production planning
- BlueCherry
Best for end-to-end supply chain management
- A2000
Best for fashion and apparel industry specifics
- PolyPM
Best for integrated PLM and ERP solutions
Related Reviews
If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for here, check out these other tools that we’ve tested and evaluated:
ERP for the Apparel Industry Selection Criteria
The criteria for choosing an ERP for the apparel industry should directly address buyer needs and common pain points, ensuring that the software serves its intended purpose effectively. As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, here are the requirements I use when evaluating software:
Core Functionality: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Inventory management
- Order processing
- Production planning
- Financial management
- Supply chain management
Additional Standout Features: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Integration with e-commerce platforms
- Advanced analytics and reporting
- Customizable dashboards
- Mobile accessibility
- AI-driven demand forecasting
Usability: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Intuitive user interface
- Drag-and-drop scheduling
- Easy navigation and search functionality
- Customizable user roles and permissions
- Responsive design for mobile and tablet use
Onboarding: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Availability of training videos and tutorials
- Interactive product tours
- Pre-built templates for quick setup
- Webinars and live training sessions
- Chatbots for instant support
Customer Support: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- 24/7 customer service availability
- Multiple support channels (phone, email, chat)
- Dedicated account managers
- Comprehensive knowledge base
- Fast response times
Value For Money: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Transparent pricing models
- Flexible subscription plans
- Cost-benefit analysis
- Discounts for long-term commitments
- ROI potential
Customer Reviews: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Feedback on ease of use
- Comments on customer support quality
- Reviews on feature effectiveness
- Testimonials on implementation success
These criteria ensure that the selected apparel ERP software not only meets the standard requirements but also excels in areas that provide additional value, ease of use, and strong support, ultimately leading to a better return on investment for the buyer.
Trends in ERPs for the Apparel Industry
Keeping up with the latest trends in ERP systems for the apparel industry can give your business a competitive edge. Here are some key changes to watch for in the coming years:
- AI-Driven Demand Forecasting: AI-driven demand forecasting is a rising trend in ERP systems. It allows businesses to predict customer demand with greater accuracy, leading to improved inventory management and a significant reduction in waste. This technology is changing the apparel industry by enabling more efficient and sustainable operations.
- Cloud-Based Solutions: Cloud ERP solutions are gaining popularity in the apparel industry. They offer scalability and remote access, which is essential for businesses with distributed teams. This trend is transforming the industry by providing flexible and accessible tools that support growth and collaboration.
- Sustainability Tracking: Integrating sustainability tracking features into ERP systems is becoming increasingly common. These features help companies monitor their environmental impact, which is vital for meeting regulatory requirements and addressing consumer expectations. This trend is driving the apparel industry toward more sustainable and responsible practices.
- Mobile ERP Applications: Mobile ERP applications are becoming more prevalent in the apparel sector as they enable employees to access data and perform tasks on the go. This trend is changing the industry by making it easier for teams to stay connected and efficient, regardless of their location.
- Customizable Dashboards: Customizable dashboards are now a standard feature in many ERP systems as they offer real-time insights tailored to specific business needs. This trend is revolutionizing the apparel industry by providing actionable data that enhances strategic planning and operational efficiency.
What is an ERP for the Apparel Industry?
By centralizing data and streamlining operations, an ERP system helps apparel businesses enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall productivity. It often encompasses functionalities like inventory management, order processing, production planning, and supply chain management, tailored to handle the unique challenges of managing diverse SKUs, sizes, and seasonal collections.
Features of ERPs for the Apparel Industry
When it comes to the apparel industry, ERPs come equipped with a range of specialized features designed to address the unique challenges of managing diverse product lines, sizes, and seasonal variations. Let's explore some of the key features that make ERPs indispensable for apparel businesses:
- Forecasting and Demand Planning: Accurate forecasting is important for avoiding overstock and shortages, ensuring that you meet consumer demand efficiently. Forecasting and demand planning integrates historical sales data and sales forecasts to help optimize purchasing decisions.
- Materials Requirements Planning (MRP): MRP helps manage fabric and trim purchasing and inventory, covering the entire production timeline from product conception to procurement of raw materials. This ensures better planning and resource allocation, reducing waste and improving cost management.
- Inventory Management: This feature tracks items based on parameters like color, size, and style, providing real-time, accurate stock information. Effective inventory management helps prevent overstocking and stockouts, reducing carrying costs and improving profitability.
- Warehouse Management: An integrated warehouse management system (WMS) controls and oversees warehouse operations, from goods receipt to dispatch. It maximizes space utilization and improves order-picking accuracy, for managing complex supply chains.
- Vendor Management Portal: This portal streamlines communication with vendors, allowing for easy upload of images, comments, and changes to items. It centralizes procurement and bidding processes, ensuring efficient vendor interactions and supply chain management.
- Sales Order and Fulfillment: This module integrates sales, distribution, and customer service, ensuring efficient order processing from receipt to delivery. It enhances customer satisfaction by managing orders, packing, shipping, and tracking.
- Reporting and Analytics: This feature provides valuable insights into sales trends, inventory levels, and customer preferences. Data-driven decision-making helps identify market trends and adapt strategies for staying competitive.
- Financial Management: Integrated financial management handles all financial transactions, including accounts payable, receivable, general ledger, and asset management. It ensures accurate financial records, compliance, and real-time financial data for better budgeting and cash flow management.
- E-Commerce Integration: This module bridges the gap between businesses and customers, facilitating online transactions and managing customer relationships. It supports both B2B and B2C scenarios, enhancing the online shopping experience and streamlining order processing.
- Electronic Data Interchange (EDI): EDI facilitates seamless communication between businesses and their partners by automating the exchange of critical business documents. It reduces manual data entry, minimizes errors, and speeds up transaction processing, enhancing supply chain efficiency.
Choosing the right apparel ERP software with these features will significantly enhance your business operations, ensuring you stay ahead in the competitive garment industry. The integration of these modules not only streamlines processes but also provides a competitive edge by enabling quick adaptation to market changes and consumer trends.
Benefits of an ERP for the Apparel Industry
After testing and reviewing several ERP software for the apparel industry, I’ve uncovered several perks associated with various solutions. Here are some of the key benefits of ERPs for the apparel industry:
- Enhanced Inventory Management: By providing a consolidated view of inventory levels, apparel ERP software helps businesses avoid stockouts and overstocking, reducing carrying costs and improving turnover rates.
- Efficient Order Fulfillment: Integrated software allows for streamlined order processing and fulfillment, ensuring faster order fulfillment and higher customer satisfaction by automating the picking, packing, and shipping processes.
- Accurate Demand Forecasting: Apparel ERP software enables better demand forecasting by analyzing historical sales data, current inventory levels, and market trends, helping in planning production and procurement strategies effectively.
- Reduced Manual Errors: Integration eliminates the need for manual data transfer, minimizing the risk of human errors and ensuring data consistency across the board, which leads to more accurate order details and inventory management.
- Cost Savings: Implementing an integrated ERP system can be more cost-effective by combining functionalities and reducing the need for redundant systems and processes, ultimately lowering licensing, infrastructure, and training costs.
Apparel ERP software is a game-changer for businesses in the fashion and apparel industry. Embracing this technology can position apparel brands for success in a competitive market, driving efficiency, profitability, and growth.
Costs & Pricing of ERP for the Apparel Industry
When shopping for an ERP for your apparel business, understanding the costs and pricing options is imperative. Below is a detailed table summarizing the different plan options, their average prices, and common features included in each plan:
ERP for the Apparel Industry Plan Comparison Table
| Plan Type | Average Price (Monthly) | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic inventory management, order tracking, and limited user access. |
| Basic Plan | $70 per user/month | Core financials, inventory management, order processing, and basic reporting. |
| Standard Plan | $140 per user/month | Advanced inventory management, production planning, sales management, CRM, and multi-location support. |
| Premium Plan | $300 per user/month | All Standard Plan features, supply chain management, advanced analytics, customization options, and multi-channel sales integration. |
| Enterprise Plan | Custom pricing | All Premium Plan features, dedicated support, integration with third-party systems, advanced security features, and personalized training. |
When selecting an apparel ERP software plan, consider the size of your business, the number of users, and the specific features you need. Each plan offers different levels of functionality and scalability, ensuring that you can find a solution that fits your business requirements and budget.
ERP for the Apparel Industry FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions I get about ERPs for the apparel industry.
Is cloud-based ERP software suitable for the apparel industry?
Yes, cloud-based ERP software is highly suitable for the apparel industry. It offers several advantages, such as:
- Accessibility: Can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Scalability: Easily scales to accommodate business growth.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Reduces the need for extensive IT infrastructure and maintenance.
- Automatic Updates: Ensures the software is always up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
How secure is apparel ERP software?
Security is a top priority for apparel ERP systems. Look for solutions that offer data encryption, secure user authentication, regular security updates, and compliance with industry standards to protect your business information.
What is the implementation process for apparel ERP software?
The implementation process for apparel ERP software typically involves the following steps:
- Consultancy: Understanding the specific needs and requirements of the business.
- Planning: Developing a detailed implementation plan.
- Implementation: Configuring and setting up the software.
- Testing: Ensuring the software functions correctly.
- Training: Providing training to users on how to use the software.
- Deployment: Going live with the software and providing ongoing support.
Is training provided with apparel ERP software?
Yes, most apparel ERP software providers offer training as part of their implementation package. Training can be conducted in-person or remotely and may include:
- In-Person Training: Hands-on training sessions at the client’s location.
- Remote Training: Online training sessions and video tutorials.
- Knowledge Base: Access to a library of instructional materials and videos.
Other ERP Software Options
If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for here, check out these other ERP solutions that we’ve tested and evaluated:
- Project-Based ERP Software
- Supply Chain Management ERP Software
- ERP for Midsize Companies
- ERP Software For Small Manufacturers
- ERP Software for the Metal Industry
- ERP Software For The Printing Industry
- Retail ERP Software
- Financial ERP Software
- Discrete Manufacturing ERP Software
- Real Estate ERP Software
- ERP Software For Engineering Companies
- Government ERP Software
- ERP Systems For Custom Manufacturing
- Chemical ERP Software
- Distribution ERP Software
- ERP for the Service Industry
- Construction ERP
- Oil and Gas ERP Software
- Aerospace ERP Software
- ERP Alternatives
- ERP For Nonprofits
- Automotive ERP Software
- ERP Software for Small Businesses
- ERP For Furniture Manufacturing
- ERP Software for the Food and Beverage Industry
- Hospital ERP Software
- Cloud ERP Software
- Field Service ERP Software
- Education ERP
- ERP Payroll Software
- ERP For Professional Services
- Job Shop ERP Software
- Food Manufacturing ERP Software
- Process Manufacturing ERP Software
- Manufacturing ERP Software
- ERP Accounting Software
What’s Next?
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