In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 15 inventory management solutions specifically designed to address post-Brexit challenges. From automated customs documentation to real-time duty calculators, these tools help businesses of all sizes navigate the complexities of UK-EU trade while keeping their inventory operations running smoothly.
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Don’t let Brexit customs slow down your business
Compare the top inventory management solutions with specialized Brexit features
Essential Brexit Customs Features to Look For
When selecting inventory management software with Brexit capabilities, certain features are critical for ensuring smooth cross-border operations. The best solutions combine robust inventory control with specialized Brexit customs tools.
Core Inventory Features
- Real-time stock tracking across multiple locations
- Multi-channel sales integration (e-commerce, retail, wholesale)
- Automated reordering and stock level alerts
- Batch and serial number tracking
- Warehouse management capabilities
- Reporting and analytics dashboards
Brexit-Specific Capabilities
- Automated customs declaration preparation
- HS code classification and lookup tools
- Real-time duty and VAT calculators
- Rules of origin documentation
- Integration with HMRC’s Customs Declaration Service (CDS)
- Northern Ireland Protocol compliance features
Enterprise-Level Inventory Management Solutions with Brexit Tools
These robust platforms offer comprehensive inventory management with advanced Brexit customs capabilities, ideal for larger businesses with complex supply chains and high-volume cross-border trade.
1. Oracle NetSuite
Oracle NetSuite offers an enterprise-grade inventory management solution with robust Brexit customs capabilities. Its unified platform provides real-time visibility across your entire supply chain while streamlining UK-EU trade compliance.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Automated customs documentation generation for all UK-EU shipments
- Comprehensive HS code management with regular updates
- Rules of origin tracking and documentation
- Integrated duty and VAT calculation with payment tracking
- Northern Ireland Protocol compliance tools
Pros
- End-to-end supply chain visibility
- Advanced multi-country compliance features
- Robust reporting for customs audit preparation
- Regular updates to reflect changing Brexit regulations
Cons
- Significant investment required
- Complex implementation process
- May require dedicated staff for management
Pricing: Custom quotes based on business requirements, typically starting from £999/month
2. SAP Inventory Management
SAP’s inventory management solution provides enterprise-level control with specialized Brexit modules designed for businesses with complex cross-border supply chains. The platform seamlessly integrates with existing SAP implementations while adding crucial Brexit compliance tools.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Integrated customs management with HMRC CDS connectivity
- Automated generation of commercial invoices with customs information
- Comprehensive duty management and deferment
- Advanced rules of origin tracking and documentation
- Real-time Brexit compliance monitoring and alerts
Pros
- Seamless integration with other SAP modules
- Highly customizable for specific industry needs
- Robust security and compliance features
- Comprehensive audit trail for all customs activities
Cons
- Significant implementation costs
- Steep learning curve
- Requires dedicated IT resources
Pricing: Custom enterprise pricing, typically £1,500+/month
3. Descartes Customs Management
Descartes offers a specialized customs management solution that integrates seamlessly with inventory systems to provide comprehensive Brexit compliance. The platform is designed for businesses with high-volume cross-border trade requiring detailed customs management.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Direct integration with HMRC’s Customs Declaration Service
- Automated customs entry preparation and submission
- Comprehensive tariff classification database
- Duty optimization and management tools
- Specialized Northern Ireland Protocol handling
Pros
- Specialized focus on customs compliance
- Regular regulatory updates
- Extensive documentation capabilities
- Strong track record with UK businesses
Cons
- Requires integration with separate inventory systems
- Higher cost for full feature set
- Complex setup process
Pricing: Starting from £899/month for enterprise solutions
Inventory Management Apps for SMEs with Brexit Customs Tools
These solutions offer the perfect balance of functionality and affordability for small to medium-sized businesses navigating post-Brexit trade challenges.
4. iCustoms
iCustoms offers a comprehensive customs management platform specifically designed for UK businesses dealing with post-Brexit trade challenges. The software provides a streamlined approach to customs declarations while integrating with your existing inventory systems.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- One-click customs declaration generation
- Intelligent Document Processing (IDP) for automated data extraction
- HS code lookup and validation
- Duty and VAT calculator with deferment options
- Direct HMRC CDS integration
Pros
- Purpose-built for post-Brexit UK businesses
- User-friendly interface requiring minimal training
- Regular updates to reflect changing regulations
- Excellent customer support with UK-based team
Cons
- More focused on customs than inventory management
- Requires integration with existing inventory systems
- Limited advanced inventory features
Pricing: Starting from £67/month for the Inventory Lite plan
5. Unleashed
Unleashed offers a robust inventory management solution with added Brexit customs capabilities, making it ideal for UK SMEs managing cross-border inventory. The cloud-based platform provides real-time stock visibility while simplifying Brexit compliance.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Brexit-compliant commercial invoice generation
- Integrated HS code management
- Country of origin tracking
- Customs valuation tools
- EU VAT handling for cross-border sales
Pros
- Strong core inventory management capabilities
- Excellent multi-warehouse management
- User-friendly interface with minimal training required
- Strong integration with accounting platforms
Cons
- Brexit customs features less comprehensive than specialized solutions
- Limited direct customs authority integration
- May require additional apps for full customs compliance
Pricing: Starting from £149/month for the Professional plan
6. Zoho Inventory
Zoho Inventory offers an affordable yet powerful inventory management solution with added Brexit customs capabilities. The platform is particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses looking for an all-in-one solution to manage post-Brexit inventory challenges.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Brexit-compliant invoice generation
- Basic HS code management
- EU VAT handling and reporting
- Customs documentation templates
- Cross-border shipment tracking
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- User-friendly interface
- Strong integration with other Zoho products
- Regular updates and improvements
Cons
- Less specialized Brexit features than dedicated solutions
- Limited direct customs authority integration
- May require workarounds for complex Brexit scenarios
Pricing: Starting from £65/month for the Professional plan
7. Linnworks
Linnworks provides a comprehensive inventory and order management system with enhanced Brexit customs capabilities. The platform is particularly strong for businesses selling across multiple channels while managing cross-border inventory post-Brexit.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Automated customs documentation
- HS code management and validation
- EU VAT calculation and reporting
- Rules of origin documentation
- Integration with major shipping carriers for customs clearance
Pros
- Excellent multi-channel management
- Strong order processing capabilities
- Comprehensive reporting tools
- Good integration ecosystem
Cons
- Higher learning curve than some alternatives
- More expensive than basic solutions
- Can be complex to set up initially
Pricing: Based on order volume, typically starting from £150/month
8. Brightpearl
Brightpearl offers a comprehensive retail operations platform with strong inventory management and added Brexit customs capabilities. The solution is ideal for retailers and wholesalers managing cross-border trade with the EU post-Brexit.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Automated customs documentation for retail shipments
- HS code management with product catalog integration
- EU VAT handling for different sales channels
- Customs valuation tools
- Cross-border returns management
Pros
- Comprehensive retail management capabilities
- Strong multi-channel inventory control
- Excellent order management features
- Good reporting and analytics
Cons
- Higher price point than some alternatives
- Complex implementation process
- Brexit features less specialized than customs-focused solutions
Pricing: Starting from £499/month for the Standard plan
Budget-Friendly Inventory Management Apps with Brexit Tools for Startups
These affordable solutions provide essential inventory management capabilities with Brexit customs features, perfect for startups and small businesses with limited budgets.
9. Katana
Katana offers a user-friendly inventory management solution with added Brexit customs capabilities at an affordable price point. The cloud-based platform is particularly well-suited for small manufacturers and product-based startups dealing with post-Brexit supply chains.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Basic customs documentation templates
- Simple HS code tracking
- EU VAT handling
- Country of origin tracking for manufactured goods
- Cross-border purchase order management
Pros
- Intuitive, user-friendly interface
- Excellent manufacturing features
- Good value for money
- Strong customer support
Cons
- Limited advanced Brexit customs features
- No direct customs authority integration
- May require additional solutions for complex customs scenarios
Pricing: Starting from £89/month for the Essential plan
10. Sortly
Sortly provides a straightforward, easy-to-use inventory management solution with basic Brexit customs capabilities. The app is perfect for very small businesses and startups looking for a simple way to track inventory while managing essential Brexit documentation.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Custom fields for HS codes and country of origin
- Basic customs documentation templates
- Simple export documentation
- Item-level customs information tracking
- Mobile scanning for customs labels
Pros
- Extremely user-friendly interface
- Affordable pricing
- Excellent mobile app
- No technical expertise required
Cons
- Very basic Brexit customs features
- Limited scalability for growing businesses
- No direct customs authority integration
Pricing: Starting from £24/month for the Advanced plan
11. Boxstorm
Boxstorm offers a simple, cloud-based inventory management solution with basic Brexit customs capabilities at an affordable price point. The platform is ideal for very small businesses and startups looking for an easy way to manage inventory while handling essential Brexit documentation.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Custom fields for Brexit-related information
- Basic export documentation templates
- Simple HS code tracking
- Country of origin fields
- Basic customs value calculation
Pros
- Very affordable pricing
- Simple, intuitive interface
- Quick setup process
- Good mobile access
Cons
- Limited Brexit-specific features
- Basic reporting capabilities
- May outgrow as business expands
Pricing: Starting from £19/month for the Basic plan
Specialized Brexit Customs Tools with Inventory Integration
These solutions focus primarily on Brexit customs compliance while offering integration with existing inventory systems, ideal for businesses with established inventory processes seeking to add Brexit capabilities.
12. CustomsLink
CustomsLink provides a specialized Brexit customs solution that integrates with existing inventory systems. The platform focuses on simplifying customs declarations and documentation while connecting to your current inventory management processes.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Comprehensive customs declaration preparation
- Direct submission to HMRC’s Customs Declaration Service
- Advanced HS code classification tools
- Detailed duty and VAT calculation
- Rules of origin determination and documentation
Pros
- Specialized focus on Brexit customs compliance
- Strong integration capabilities with existing systems
- Regular regulatory updates
- Excellent customs expertise and support
Cons
- Not a complete inventory management solution
- Requires existing inventory system
- Learning curve for customs terminology
Pricing: Starting from £99/month for the Basic plan
13. ClearBorder
ClearBorder offers a specialized Brexit customs solution designed to integrate with your existing inventory management systems. The platform focuses on simplifying the customs declaration process while providing seamless connectivity to your inventory data.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Automated customs declaration preparation and submission
- Direct HMRC CDS integration
- Comprehensive HS code database with search tools
- Detailed duty and VAT management
- Northern Ireland Protocol specialized handling
Pros
- Purpose-built for Brexit customs compliance
- Strong API for inventory system integration
- Regular updates to reflect regulatory changes
- Specialized customs expertise
Cons
- Not a standalone inventory solution
- Requires technical setup for integration
- Higher learning curve for non-customs specialists
Pricing: Starting from £129/month for the Standard plan
14. BrexitFlow
BrexitFlow provides a specialized solution for managing Brexit customs requirements with strong inventory system integration capabilities. The platform focuses on simplifying the customs process while connecting seamlessly with your existing inventory management tools.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Streamlined customs declaration workflow
- Comprehensive HS code management
- Rules of origin determination tools
- Duty and VAT optimization
- Specialized handling for different product categories
Pros
- Focused specifically on Brexit challenges
- Strong integration capabilities
- User-friendly interface for customs processes
- Good value for specialized functionality
Cons
- Requires existing inventory system
- Limited inventory management capabilities
- Newer platform with developing feature set
Pricing: Starting from £79/month for the Basic plan
All-in-One Solutions for Inventory and Brexit Customs Management
These comprehensive platforms offer both robust inventory management and specialized Brexit customs tools in a single integrated solution.
15. Cin7
Cin7 provides a comprehensive all-in-one solution combining advanced inventory management with robust Brexit customs capabilities. The platform is ideal for businesses seeking a unified approach to managing both inventory and Brexit compliance challenges.
Brexit-Specific Features:
- Integrated customs documentation within the order process
- Comprehensive HS code management and validation
- Automated duty and VAT calculation
- Rules of origin tracking and documentation
- Northern Ireland Protocol compliance tools
Pros
- Truly integrated inventory and customs solution
- Strong multi-channel capabilities
- Comprehensive reporting across inventory and customs
- Regular updates to reflect changing regulations
Cons
- Higher price point than specialized solutions
- Steeper learning curve due to comprehensive feature set
- May have more features than smaller businesses need
Pricing: Starting from £349/month for the Standard plan
Comparison: Cloud-Based vs. On-Premise Brexit Customs Solutions
Cloud-Based Solutions
- Accessibility: Access from anywhere with internet connection, ideal for remote teams and multiple locations
- Updates: Automatic regulatory updates ensure compliance with changing Brexit requirements
- Implementation: Faster setup with lower upfront costs
- Scalability: Easily scale up or down based on business needs
- Integration: Generally offer better API connectivity with other systems
On-Premise Solutions
- Control: Greater control over data and security protocols
- Customization: More extensive customization possibilities for specific Brexit requirements
- Connectivity: Can operate without internet dependency
- Long-term Cost: May be more cost-effective for very large operations over time
- Compliance: Can be tailored to specific regulatory needs
HMRC Customs Declaration Service (CDS) Integration
A critical consideration for any Brexit customs solution is its ability to integrate with HMRC’s Customs Declaration Service (CDS), which has replaced the older CHIEF system. When evaluating inventory management apps with Brexit customs tools, verify:
- Direct CDS integration capabilities
- Support for the latest CDS message formats
- Ability to handle supplementary declarations
- Support for postponed VAT accounting
- Northern Ireland Protocol compliance features
Important: As of 2024, all UK customs declarations must be processed through the CDS system. Ensure your chosen solution is fully compatible with current HMRC requirements.
Choosing the Right Inventory Management App with Brexit Customs Tools
Navigating the post-Brexit landscape requires inventory management solutions that can handle both stock control and customs compliance effectively. The right software can transform complex Brexit requirements into streamlined processes, saving time and reducing compliance risks.
When selecting from the options above, consider your business size, trading volume with the EU, product complexity, and budget. For many UK businesses, the ideal solution combines robust inventory management with specialized Brexit customs capabilities, either in an all-in-one platform or through strategic integration.
Take the Next Step in Brexit-Ready Inventory Management
Book demos with your top 3 options to test their Brexit compliance features with your specific inventory scenarios
