For small manufacturers, optimizing supply chain operations is essential for staying competitive, improving efficiency, and ensuring scalability. Selecting the right Supply Chain Management (SCM) system is a critical step toward improving inventory control, streamlining supplier management, and driving overall productivity. In this guide, we break down the Top 5 SCM systems for small manufacturers in 2025, highlighting their features, pricing, and why they’re a good fit for growing businesses.
1. Katana Manufacturing ERP
Best for: Visual production and inventory management
Katana is built with small manufacturers in mind, offering a visual-first approach to production and inventory management. With seamless integration to platforms like Shopify, QuickBooks, and Xero, Katana allows manufacturers to automate workflows and track material usage and production schedules in real time.
- Top Features: Visual production planning, real-time inventory tracking, Shopify & QuickBooks integrations.
- Cost: Starting at $99/month for the Essential plan.
- Why Small Manufacturers Love It: Katana’s easy-to-use interface and affordability make it ideal for manufacturers looking for powerful tools without complexity.
2. DEAR Systems
Best for: Affordable ERP and multi-channel inventory control
DEAR Systems provides robust multi-channel inventory management and ERP functionalities tailored to small manufacturers. DEAR integrates with popular platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, and eCommerce tools like Amazon and eBay, making it perfect for businesses with diverse sales channels.
- Top Features: Multi-channel inventory, purchase order automation, integrations with accounting software.
- Cost: Starting at $325/month.
- Why Small Manufacturers Love It: DEAR offers great scalability for businesses looking to manage inventory across multiple sales platforms while keeping costs manageable.
3. Microsoft Dynamics 365
Best for: Advanced ERP with global scalability
Microsoft Dynamics 365 combines ERP and CRM functionality, providing a comprehensive solution for manufacturers who need advanced tools for managing both internal operations and customer relationships. With tight integration into the Microsoft ecosystem, manufacturers can leverage tools like Power BI and Teams to improve collaboration and reporting.
- Top Features: Full ERP/CRM integration, real-time reporting, robust Microsoft ecosystem integrations.
- Cost: Starting at $180/user/month.
- Why Small Manufacturers Love It: Dynamics 365’s ability to scale makes it perfect for manufacturers planning to expand globally.
Learn more about Microsoft Dynamics 365 here.
4. Sage X3
Best for: Complex multi-site operations
Sage X3 is perfect for small manufacturers that need to manage complex multi-site operations, providing tools for inventory management, production control, and financial oversight. Its support for multi-currency and multi-location operations makes it suitable for businesses looking to grow beyond local markets.
- Top Features: Multi-currency support, complex inventory and production management, advanced financial controls.
- Cost: Starting at $2,000/month.
- Why Small Manufacturers Love It: Sage X3 is highly customizable and offers a robust set of tools for manufacturers with more complex operations.
5. Acumatica
Best for: Cloud-based ERP and SCM solutions
Acumatica is a cloud-based ERP system that has gained popularity due to its flexibility and cost-efficiency. Small manufacturers can leverage Acumatica’s cloud infrastructure for real-time inventory control, production scheduling, and customer relationship management. Its scalability allows manufacturers to add features and users as their business grows, without needing expensive IT infrastructure.
- Top Features: Cloud-based infrastructure, customizable workflows, real-time data access.
- Cost: Custom pricing based on business needs.
- Why Small Manufacturers Love It: Acumatica’s cloud-based platform offers the flexibility to scale without heavy IT investment, making it an ideal solution for growing manufacturers.
Learn more about Acumatica here.
Comparison Chart: SCM Systems for Small Manufacturers
| SCM System | Best For | Starting Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Katana | Visual production and inventory management | $99/month | Real-time inventory, Shopify & QuickBooks integration, visual production tracking |
| DEAR Systems | Affordable ERP and multi-channel control | $325/month | Multi-channel inventory, accounting integration, order automation |
| Microsoft Dynamics 365 | Advanced ERP with global scalability | $180/user/month | ERP/CRM integration, real-time reporting, Microsoft ecosystem |
| Sage X3 | Complex multi-site operations | $2,000/month | Multi-currency, multi-site management, advanced inventory control |
| Acumatica | Cloud-based ERP and SCM | Custom Pricing | Cloud infrastructure, customizable workflows, real-time data access |
Why These SCM Systems Matter for Small Manufacturers
Choosing the right SCM system can significantly impact a small manufacturer’s ability to scale, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency. Katana, DEAR Systems, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 offer user-friendly platforms tailored to small businesses with growth ambitions. For more complex needs, Sage X3 and Acumatica provide advanced tools for managing multi-site and multi-currency operations.
Click here to explore the best SCM systems and find the perfect solution for your manufacturing business in 2025.