12 Best Hotel Inventory Management Software
After extensive evaluation, I've selected 12 exceptional hotel inventory management tools tailored to bridge the gaps in your operations. Stay tuned!
- Maestro PMS - Best for enterprise-level hospitality businesses seeking integrated solutions
- Guesty - Best for short-term rental operators aiming for streamlined management
- ResNexus - Best for inns and bed & breakfast establishments valuing simplicity
- Trawex - Best for businesses seeking comprehensive travel technology solutions
- Protel - Best for establishments prioritizing guest-centric experiences
- Access - Best for businesses desiring efficient stock control
- Travelopro - Best for businesses needing a customizable hotel inventory management system
- MarketMan - Best for eateries requiring superior supply chain management
- Little Hotelier - Best for small hotels seeking a holistic management system
- Cloudbeds - Best for hospitality businesses looking for an all-in-one platform
- Netsuite - Best for restaurants aiming for robust operational control
- JLL - Best for those valuing asset management and predictive maintenance
I understand the complexities of managing a hotel's inventory – coordinating vendors and resources and forecasting demand is no small feat. To ease this process, I've compiled a selection of high-quality hotel inventory management software designed to streamline and automate your tasks.
Each tool on this list works uniquely to take the complexity out of inventory management. They help track your resources, automate tasks, and provide clear visibility into your hotel's operations, allowing you to make informed decisions.
The benefits are compelling - you'll save valuable time, reduce human error, optimize resource use, and improve guest experience. These advantages can help turn what often feels like chaos into a well-orchestrated symphony.
And the pain points? Say goodbye to overbookings, mismanaged resources, manual spreadsheets, and checklists. These software tools tackle those issues head-on, creating a smoother, more efficient operation that lets you focus on what you do best: providing stellar hospitality. So, take a look at these options and see which one resonates most with your needs - I'm confident you'll find the right fit.
What is Hotel Inventory Management Software?
Hotel inventory management software is a digital tool designed to help hotel industries streamline and optimize their inventory control. This tool is utilized by hotel managers, operations executives, and hospitality business owners to track and manage resources — from room inventory to food, to amenities — ensuring they are used efficiently and effectively.
By automating inventory-related tasks, the software helps reduce manual errors, manage bookings and room services, forecast demand, and even integrate with other hotel systems, thereby enhancing overall operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Overviews of the 12 Best Hotel Inventory Management Software
1. Maestro PMS - Best for enterprise-level hospitality businesses seeking integrated solutions
Maestro PMS is a robust property management solution that caters to the diverse needs of large-scale hotels, resorts, and conference centers. It offers a suite of modules that work harmoniously to streamline operations, enhance guest experience, and enable efficient management of multiple aspects of hospitality.
Why I Picked Maestro PMS:
I chose Maestro PMS for its impressive range of comprehensive tools and ability to cater to enterprise-level needs. Its capability to seamlessly integrate different operational aspects sets it apart from the crowd. The tool is best for large hospitality businesses due to its modular approach, allowing seamless scalability and adaptability to complex workflows.
What do you get for free?
While Maestro PMS does not offer a free plan, they provide a personalized demo allowing you to explore its capabilities and evaluate if the platform fits your business needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Maestro PMS offers a wealth of features such as direct booking, yield management, CRM, digital registration, and analytics, making it a holistic solution for all property management needs. It also integrates well with various external systems, including POS systems, mobile apps, central reservation systems, and revenue management systems.
Pricing:
Pricing details for Maestro PMS are provided upon request.
Pros:
- Comprehensive suite of property management tools
- Scalable for large businesses
- Broad range of integrations
Cons:
- No free plan available
- Pricing details are not transparent
- May be overly complex for smaller operations
2. Guesty - Best for short-term rental operators aiming for streamlined management
Guesty is a platform specifically designed for short-term rental property management. It automates various tasks from booking to check-in and check-out, providing an integrated solution that simplifies the complex operations of short-term rentals.
Why I Picked Guesty:
I selected Guesty because of its specialization in short-term rental operations. The tool provides a central platform for property listings, reservations, guest communication, and more, which truly sets it apart. Guesty is best for short-term rental operators as it's tailored to address these businesses' specific challenges, making management much smoother.
What do you get for free?
Guesty does not offer a free plan. However, they provide a free personalized demo that lets potential users understand its functionalities and see if it fits their operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Guesty comes packed with features like a unified inbox, automation tools, and reporting and analytics. It also provides a mobile management app to let you manage your business on the go. As for integrations, Guesty seamlessly connects with popular booking channels like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia, and it integrates with Zapier for further software connections.
Pricing:
Pricing for Guesty is available upon request.
Pros:
- Specializes in short-term rental management
- Unified inbox for centralized communication
- Broad range of integrations
Cons:
- No free plan available
- Pricing details are not transparent
- Can be expensive for small-scale operations
3. ResNexus - Best for inns and bed & breakfast establishments valuing simplicity
ResNexus is a comprehensive property management software crafted for inns, bed & breakfasts, and small hotels. It offers a user-friendly interface and intuitive functionality that simplifies operations and enhances guest experience.
Why I Picked ResNexus:
ResNexus caught my eye due to its focus on smaller hospitality establishments and its simplicity of use. It has been designed keeping the unique needs of inns and bed & breakfasts in mind, which makes it stand out. In my opinion, ResNexus is best for these businesses as it provides all necessary features in an easy-to-navigate format, reducing management complexities.
What do you get for free?
ResNexus doesn't offer a free plan, but it does provide a free trial period, allowing potential users to test its functionalities before committing.
Standout features & integrations:
ResNexus offers notable features such as online reservations, guest management, reporting, and invoicing. Its integrations include OTAs like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb, along with connectivity to popular payment processors for ease of transactions.
Pricing:
Pricing for ResNexus starts from $60/user/month, billed annually.
Pros:
- Tailored for small hospitality businesses
- User-friendly interface
- Direct integration with popular OTAs
Cons:
- Higher pricing tier
- No free plan available
- Could be less suitable for larger establishments
4. Trawex - Best for businesses seeking comprehensive travel technology solutions
Trawex is an all-encompassing hotel inventory management software that caters to travel agencies, tour operators, and travel companies. Its rich feature set encompasses a range of functionalities, from inventory management to bookings and payment processing.
Why I Picked Trawex:
I selected Trawex for this list because of its comprehensive suite of travel technology solutions. It stands out for its ability to offer a one-stop solution for travel businesses, including hotel inventory management, bookings, customer relationship management, and more. Trawex is the best for these businesses because it integrates multiple facets of travel business operations, eliminating the need for multiple disjointed systems.
What do you get for free?
Trawex does not provide a free plan or trial period. However, they offer a personalized demo on request, allowing potential users to experience the system's capabilities.
Standout features & integrations:
Trawex's standout features include real-time inventory management, automated booking confirmation, and centralized content management. The platform integrates with various global distribution systems (GDS), payment gateways and has an API for further custom integrations.
Pricing:
Pricing for Trawex is upon request, as they customize their solutions based on the business's specific needs.
Pros:
- Comprehensive suite of travel technology solutions
- Integration with GDS and payment gateways
- Customizable offerings
Cons:
- No free plan or trial
- Pricing is not transparent
- May be overwhelming for smaller businesses
5. Protel - Best for establishments prioritizing guest-centric experiences
Protel delivers a full-fledged hotel management solution that emphasizes improving guest experiences. It combines inventory management with advanced customer relationship tools to create personalized guest interactions.
Why I Picked Protel:
I chose Protel for its distinctive guest-centered approach. The software not only manages the back-end hotel operations but also emphasizes improving guest experiences. This makes it ideal for establishments that want to enhance customer satisfaction and retention, as it offers tools to personalize interactions with guests.
What do you get for free?
Protel does not offer a free tier or trial. However, it provides a personalized demonstration of its functionalities on request.
Standout features & integrations:
Protel's key features include a centralized reservation system, guest profile management, and a robust reporting system. It also integrates seamlessly with various third-party applications like CRM, POS, and online booking platforms, providing a comprehensive hospitality solution.
Pricing:
Protel’s pricing information is not publicly available, but it can be obtained upon request.
Pros:
- Guest-centered approach enhances customer satisfaction
- Integration with various third-party applications
- Robust reporting capabilities
Cons:
- No free plan or trial
- Pricing information is not transparent
- The learning curve may be steep for some users
6. Access - Best for businesses desiring efficient stock control
Access offers a cloud-based business management solution that includes superior stock control features. This platform is designed to streamline operations and give businesses a clear picture of their inventory.
Why I Picked Access:
I chose Access because of its robust and efficient stock control functionalities. Compared to other platforms, Access gives businesses an enhanced ability to manage, track, and adjust inventory levels, making it a prime choice for businesses that handle a significant amount of inventory.
What do you get for free?
Access does not offer a free plan. However, they offer a free demo allowing prospective users to explore the system's features and capabilities before purchasing.
Standout features & integrations:
Access’s standout features include advanced inventory control, barcode scanning, sales and purchase order processing, and multi-channel retailing. It also integrates well with other software, including accounting systems and e-commerce platforms, for a cohesive business management experience.
Pricing:
Access's pricing information is not publicly available. To obtain a quote, businesses need to contact the company directly.
Pros:
- Advanced inventory control features
- Comprehensive integrations with other software
- Suitable for multi-channel retailing
Cons:
- No free plan
- Pricing information is not transparent
- Interface may be complex for beginners
7. Travelopro - Best for businesses needing a customizable hotel inventory management system
Travelopro is a hotel inventory management system that allows businesses to maintain and control their hotel bookings and inventory with efficiency and precision. This system caters well to businesses that require a customizable solution to suit their unique operational needs and preferences.
Why I Picked Travelopro:
Travelopro stood out to me because of its adaptability and the ease with which it can be tailored to a business's individual needs. This customizability makes it ideal for businesses that don't fit the mold of traditional hotel inventory management systems.
What do you get for free?
Travelopro does not offer a free version of its software. However, they do provide a free demo for prospective users to experience the system's capabilities before making a commitment.
Standout features & integrations:
Travelopro shines with its ability to handle massive inventory, a real-time reservation dashboard, and support for multi-currency transactions. The software can also be integrated with major global distribution systems (GDS), enabling businesses to expand their reach effortlessly.
Pricing:
Pricing for Travelopro is not publicly listed, and businesses are encouraged to contact the company directly for a personalized quote.
Pros:
- Customizable to suit individual business needs
- Capable of managing large inventory
- Can be integrated with major GDS
Cons:
- No free version available
- Pricing information is not transparent
- May require some technical knowledge for customization
8. MarketMan - Best for eateries requiring superior supply chain management
MarketMan is a cloud-based inventory management solution aimed at restaurants and eateries. It focuses on helping such establishments streamline their supply chain processes for optimized inventory control and cost management. For eateries aiming to gain superior supply chain control, MarketMan offers the tools and features needed.
Why I Picked MarketMan:
I picked MarketMan because of its strong focus on supply chain management, a crucial aspect of any eatery business. What makes it unique is its tailored fit for the restaurant industry, addressing specific needs like vendor management, food cost analysis, and automated procurement.
What do you get for free?
While MarketMan doesn't offer a completely free tier, they do provide a free trial for interested users. This enables businesses to get a taste of the platform's capabilities and assess whether it fits their specific needs and operations.
Standout features & integrations:
MarketMan offers robust features like real-time inventory tracking, automated ordering, and detailed food cost analysis. It also integrates well with several POS systems like Square, Clover, and TouchBistro, which are frequently used in the restaurant industry, allowing for smoother, integrated operations.
Pricing:
Pricing starts from $149 per month, billed annually.
Pros:
- Tailored for the needs of the restaurant industry
- Offers robust supply chain management features
- Integrates well with popular POS systems
Cons:
- No free tier available, only a free trial
- The cost may be high for smaller eateries
- Requires annual billing for the stated price
9. Little Hotelier - Best for small hotels seeking a holistic management system
Little Hotelier is a property management system specifically designed to cater to the needs of small hotels, bed and breakfasts, inns, and other small lodging establishments. It provides a range of features to manage bookings, revenue, and front-desk operations. For small hotels that need an all-inclusive management system, Little Hotelier could be the right fit.
Why I Picked Little Hotelier:
The reason I chose Little Hotelier for this list is its focus on small-scale accommodations. Compared to many other management systems, it offers the necessary features in an easy-to-use package designed specifically for smaller operations. This emphasis on small hotels aligns with its offering making it best for such establishments.
What do you get for free?
Little Hotelier does not provide a completely free tier, but they do have a demo request option for those interested in trying their services. This allows potential users to get a feel for the product before deciding on a purchase.
Standout features & integrations:
Among its many features, Little Hotelier's robust reservation system, front desk operations management, and dynamic pricing tools stand out. The software also integrates with numerous OTAs (Online Travel Agencies), Channel Managers, and GDS (Global Distribution Systems), enhancing its booking management capabilities.
Pricing:
Little Hotelier's pricing begins from $94 per month.
Pros:
- Specifically designed for small-scale lodging establishments
- Easy-to-use interface with robust features
- Broad range of integrations with OTAs and other systems
Cons:
- No completely free tier available
- May not be suitable for larger operations
- Some users may find it expensive compared to other alternatives
10. Cloudbeds - Best for hospitality businesses looking for an all-in-one platform
Cloudbeds is an all-encompassing hospitality management suite offering solutions for property management, channel management, and booking engines. It is intended for a wide range of businesses in the hospitality industry. It could serve as the best solution for businesses looking for an all-in-one platform to streamline operations.
Why I Picked Cloudbeds:
I chose Cloudbeds because of its comprehensive feature set and wide adaptability, making it stand apart from the crowd. I found its all-in-one platform approach particularly suitable for hospitality businesses that need to manage various operations, thus qualifying it as the best for this use case.
What do you get for free?
Cloudbeds doesn't offer a free tier. However, they offer a free demo so potential users can explore and understand the capabilities of their platform before purchasing.
Standout features & integrations:
Cloudbeds provides a wide range of useful features, including a comprehensive property management system, a channel manager, and an online booking engine. Furthermore, it offers integrations with multiple third-party services like Expedia, Booking.com, and Airbnb, expanding its functionality and making operations more streamlined.
Pricing:
Pricing for Cloudbeds starts from $112 per month, with specific rates depending on the size and requirements of the business.
Pros:
- Comprehensive all-in-one platform
- Wide range of integrations
- Suits a broad range of hospitality businesses
Cons:
- Does not offer a free tier
- Pricing can be high for small businesses
- Some users may find the interface complex to navigate
11. Netsuite - Best for restaurants aiming for robust operational control
NetSuite is a unified business management suite with ERP, CRM, and e-commerce capabilities. This advanced tool can help restaurants maintain operational control by providing them with actionable insights and an overview of all business processes.
Why I Picked Netsuite:
In my comparison and selection process, I picked Netsuite due to its comprehensive capabilities in providing control over every aspect of a restaurant's operation. Its robust feature set, scalability, and adaptability make it stand out. Given these factors, it is clear why Netsuite is ideal for restaurants aiming for superior operational control.
What do you get for free?
NetSuite does not provide a free tier or trial. They do, however, offer free product tours and demos to help businesses understand the platform before making a purchasing decision.
Standout features & integrations:
Netsuite comes with a suite of significant features such as inventory management, workforce management, and financial planning. Its integration capabilities include popular tools like Salesforce, Magento, and Shopify, enhancing its utility.
Pricing:
NetSuite's pricing begins from $999 per month (billed annually) + $99 per user per month. It is important to note that the price may vary based on the specific needs and size of your business.
Pros:
- Comprehensive suite of tools for operational control
- Highly scalable and adaptable
- Extensive integration capabilities
Cons:
- No free tier or trial available
- Pricing can be high for small businesses
- The platform can be complex to navigate for beginners
12. JLL - Best for those valuing asset management and predictive maintenance
JLL offers a broad range of services, from real estate to investment management. Its asset management capabilities, coupled with a focus on predictive maintenance, can be of particular benefit to hospitality businesses.
Why I Picked JLL:
I chose JLL for this list because of its comprehensive approach to managing properties and investments. It stands out due to its unique combination of asset management and predictive maintenance capabilities. This mix of features makes it best suited for organizations prioritizing these aspects of their operations.
What do you get for free?
JLL doesn't provide a free version of its services, as the complexity and breadth of its offerings require customization to each client's needs. However, they do offer complimentary consultations to understand the potential client's needs and provide appropriate solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
JLL's standout features include comprehensive asset management, audit trail, predictive maintenance, real estate services, and investment management. As for integrations, they offer a range of solutions tailored to specific needs, including integration with various property management systems and financial platforms.
Pricing:
JLL's pricing structure is custom based on the specific services required by the client. As such, pricing information is made available upon request.
Pros:
- Broad range of services for various needs
- Strong focus on asset management and predictive maintenance
- Customized solutions to fit client needs
Cons:
- No standardized pricing structure
- Lack of a free trial or version
- Comprehensive services may be overwhelming for smaller businesses
Other Hotel Inventory Management Software
Below is a list of additional hotel inventory management software we shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Hotelogix - Good for real-time tracking of hotel inventory
- Jinisys - Good for those needing integrated hotel and restaurant management
- QR Inventory - Good for asset tracking in hospitality industries
- Beds24 - Good for automation of complex operations in property management
- Gigatrak - Good for hotels seeking comprehensive asset-tracking solutions
- Omega - Good for hotel establishments desiring a POS system integration
Selection Criteria for Hotel Inventory Management Software
In my quest to find the best hotel inventory management software, I've scrutinized more than two dozen platforms, rigorously testing each for their ability to meet specific criteria. I was particularly interested in finding software that offered comprehensive functionality, usability, and essential features tailored to meet the needs of hotel inventory management.
Core Functionality
- Automated inventory updates: The tool should allow for automatic updating of inventory levels in real-time as bookings are made.
- Multi-channel management: It should enable you to manage inventory across multiple sales channels from a centralized platform.
- Inventory tracking: It should track inventory in real-time, ensuring you always have accurate, up-to-date information.
- Reporting: It should generate detailed reports that offer insight into inventory levels, sales, and occupancy rates.
Key Features
- Integration capabilities: The software should be able to seamlessly integrate with other systems such as property management systems (PMS), point of sale (POS) systems, and online travel agencies (OTAs).
- Scalability: As your hotel grows, the software should be able to scale with your needs.
- Mobile access: Given the need for on-the-go management in the hospitality industry, smartphone access to inventory data is crucial.
- Security: Strong data security measures to protect sensitive information about your hotel and your guests.
Usability
- User-friendly interface: Hotel inventory management can be complex, so the tool should have a clear, intuitive interface that makes it easy to manage and track inventory.
- Easy onboarding: The platform should offer straightforward setup and training resources, allowing your team to understand how to use the software quickly.
- Reliable customer support: Quick and efficient customer support is key in the event of technical glitches or if you need assistance navigating the software.
- Role-based access: Given the variety of roles in hotel management, the tool should provide ease of use and role-based access to ensure the right people have access to the right information.
Most Common Questions Regarding Hotel Inventory Management Software
What are the benefits of using hotel inventory management software?
Using hotel inventory management software provides numerous advantages, including:
- Real-time inventory tracking: The software automatically updates inventory levels as bookings are made, ensuring real-time accuracy.
- Centralized control: The tool allows you to manage inventory across multiple sales channels from one central location.
- Insightful reporting: The software can generate detailed reports that provide insight into inventory levels, sales, and occupancy rates.
- Scalability: As your hotel grows, the software can adapt to your changing needs.
- Mobile access: Most tools offer mobile and social media capabilities, allowing you to manage your inventory on the go.
How much does hotel inventory management software typically cost?
Pricing for hotel inventory management software varies widely based on the features, the size of your hotel, and the software provider.
What are the typical pricing models for hotel inventory management software?
Typically, hotel inventory management software providers use a subscription-based pricing model. You pay a monthly or annual fee based on the number of rooms in your hotel or the number of users. Some providers may also offer a tiered pricing model, where you can access more features as you move up the tiers.
What is the typical range of pricing for hotel inventory management software?
Pricing can range anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars per month. It's important to understand what features and services are included in the price and whether there are additional costs for setup, training, or integrations.
What are some of the cheapest hotel inventory management software options?
Software like Beds24 offers cost-effective solutions for smaller properties, with prices starting as low as $10 per month.
What are some of the most expensive hotel inventory management software options?
High-end software like Oracle Hospitality OPERA Property Management System can cost several hundred dollars per month. These tools typically include advanced features and integrations that justify the higher price tag.
Are there any free hotel inventory management software options?
While fully free options are rare in the hotel inventory management software market, some providers offer free trials or freemium versions of their software. These free options are typically very limited in functionality or are only free for a short period of time.
Other Hotel Inventory Management Software Reviews
Summary
Selecting the best hotel inventory management software hinges on recognizing your specific needs and aligning them with the right tool. Your selection should ensure real-time inventory control, adaptability across multiple sales channels, and insightful reporting. Price is another significant factor, as the tools can range from relatively cheap to more premium options.
Here are the three key takeaways to guide your decision:
- Identify your needs: Your hotel's size, the complexity of your operations, and your growth expectations should guide your selection. Identify your must-have features and prioritize them when evaluating different software options.
- Consider usability and customer support: The software should be user-friendly and come with reliable customer support. Remember, the tool is meant to simplify your operations, not complicate them. An intuitive interface and quality customer service can go a long way in ensuring smooth usage.
- Understand pricing models: Ensure you are clear on the pricing structure of the software. Look beyond the basic subscription cost and inquire about additional fees for set-up, training, or extra features. Consider the value the software will bring to your business and whether the cost is justified.
What Do You Think?
If you're using a hotel inventory management tool that you think deserves a spot on our list, or if you have any experiences to share about the ones we've mentioned, don't hesitate to let us know. Your input could be the key to helping other readers make an informed decision. So go ahead, reach out to us, and contribute to our growing community of knowledge sharers. We look forward to hearing from you!