Empowering Your Online Business Growth through Strategic Outsourcing Services
Bigcommerce Inventory Management: A Comprehensive Guide
- Category :
- Ecommerce Business Ideas
Today ecommerce business is growing worldwide, and at the same time, it's difficult too. Online retailers are facing one of the significant challenges, which is how to maintain and manage inventory effectively without stockout. Therefore, most ecommerce platforms focus on inventory and simplifying by giving powerful tools for shop owners to streamline the inventory process by cutting costs and time.
Bigcommerce is a NO 1 ecommerce platform with good features for efficient inventory processes. Let's check how Bigcommerce is helpful to shop owners by providing powerful inventory tools for smooth operations.
In this tutorial blog, learn how to manage stock levels and also know the features, solutions providing Bigcommerce platform for streamline inventory process.
What is BigCommerce Inventory Management?
Bigcommerce Inventory Management is a process managed in an online store built on the BigCommerce platform to maintain accurate product stock level. The process includes products stock level are managed systematically, orders are accurately tracked and organized to ensure efficient supply chain operations. It helps businesses prevent stockouts or overstocking and streamline order fulfilment.
Key benefits of BigCommerce Inventory Management include:
- Real-Time Inventory Tracking: Bigcommerce allow us to intagrate multiple sales channels like Amazon, ebay, etc in their online shop. By using real-time inventory traking features, it helps get live status of stock updates quickly.
- Low Stock Alerts: Bigcommerce offers a low stock alert feature that is very easy and helpful for online business owners. You can set stock for each product using the store backend, including individual products and variants. When inventory falls below the set level, store owners receive automatic alerts. This feature will help them restock quickly and avoid stockouts.
- Automated Stock Updates: If you have several suppliers who frequently update stock levels, Bigcommerce provides a feature to integrate your suppliers' live inventory management system. During this process, the feature allows you to sync suppliers' data feed CSV files on a scheduled time, and ensure that the stock level always updates correctly in your online store.
- Bulk Inventory Edits: The bulk edits feature allows you to make any kind of update/change for hundreds of products at once, helping you save valuable time compared to manual edits. Multiple updates, such as pricing, SKU edits, or inventory, can be made in CSV files or Google Sheets and uploaded to Bigcommerce.
- Product Variants: With BigCommerce Product Variants feature, if a product has multiple variations, you can simplify product listings in your store. Under a single product listing, different options like size, color etc are treated as its variants. Enabling inventory tracking for each variant allows to manage stock level for each option combination independently.
- Multi-Location Inventory Management: Manage multiple inventories from different locations. When an order is placed, the system tracks and fulfills it from the nearest warehouse, saving time and reducing shipping costs. It also helps track inventory at different warehouses or places when required.
- Reporting and Analytics: This feature of Bigcommerce helps online owners to track key metrics such as sales trends, stock levels, product performance, and customer behavior to make informed decisions on inventory management, marketing, and pricing.
Importance of Inventory Management for Bigcommerce?
Knowing how much product stock is on hand is an essential factor in inventory management. Maintaining the right amount of stock prevents overstocking that cost or selling out of items, which can upset customers.
Managing inventory effectively, especially during peak seasons, can lead to losses against competitors as running out of products can redirect customers to them, impacting potential profits.
With precise accounting of the stock levels, you don’t need to perform frequent time-consuming recounts, saving time and money.
Adopting BigCommerce inventory management is important because it can effectively address several key challenges faced by sellers across the eCommerce industry.
The system can modernize outdated processes with advanced, real-time tracking systems, ensuring that inventory data is always current and accurate.
Insights into customer behavior and demand trends will help you adapt to customers' changing preferences and adjust stock levels accordingly.
Using BigCommerce inventory management tools effectively can help you improve warehouse management operations.
The importance of Inventory Management for BigCommerce lies in its critical role in ensuring business efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profitability. Here’s why it matters:
-
Preventing Stockouts and Overstocks
Stockouts can lead to missed sales and unhappy customers, while overstocking ties up capital in unsold goods. Effective inventory management helps maintain optimal stock levels, ensuring the right amount of inventory is available to meet demand without over-investing in stock.
-
Improved Order Fulfillment
By managing inventory accurately, businesses can streamline the order fulfillment process. This reduces delays and ensures that customers receive their products on time, leading to higher customer satisfaction and repeat business.
-
Real-Time Stock Visibility
BigCommerce inventory management systems provide real-time tracking, allowing businesses to view their stock levels and sales performance instantly. This level of visibility helps make informed purchasing and pricing decisions, minimizing errors.
-
Multi-Channel Inventory Syncing
With inventory management tools, businesses can sync stock across multiple channels (like physical stores, Amazon, and eBay) and avoid inconsistencies in stock availability across platforms. This consistency helps in managing multi-channel sales effectively.
-
Cost Efficiency
Good inventory management leads to better cost control. It minimizes excess inventory and associated costs (such as storage) and ensures that cash flow is better utilized by stocking items with high demand.
-
Low Stock Alerts and Automated Reordering
Features like low stock alerts help businesses stay proactive. Automated reordering ensures that businesses restock products before they run out, preventing interruptions in sales and maintaining business continuity.
-
Better Customer Experience
Customers expect to receive the products they order promptly. By keeping stock well-managed and updated, businesses can avoid frustrating customers with out-of-stock items or delays in shipping, leading to a better shopping experience and higher retention rates.
-
Data-Driven Decisions
Inventory management provides valuable insights through reporting and analytics. This data allows businesses to identify top-selling products, spot trends, and make strategic decisions regarding purchasing, pricing, and promotions.
-
Scalability
As businesses grow, inventory management becomes more complex. Efficient systems within BigCommerce help businesses scale up without losing control over their stock, enabling smooth expansion to new markets and channels.
Overall, strong inventory management within BigCommerce is crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, reducing costs, boosting sales, and improving the overall customer experience.
-
Enhanced Supply Chain Management
Effective inventory management helps maintain a smooth supply chain by providing visibility into stock levels, enabling better communication with suppliers, and ensuring timely reordering. This reduces bottlenecks and keeps the business running smoothly.
-
Minimized Human Errors
With automation and real-time tracking, inventory management systems in BigCommerce reduce the likelihood of human errors like incorrect stock counts, misplaced products, or data entry mistakes. This enhances accuracy and minimizes costly disruptions.
-
Integration with Other Tools
BigCommerce inventory management often integrates with third-party tools such as accounting software, shipping services, and marketing platforms. This creates a seamless ecosystem where data flows smoothly between different parts of the business, enabling holistic management and more informed decision-making.
-
Improved Cash Flow Management
By optimizing stock levels and avoiding over-purchasing, businesses can improve their cash flow management. Instead of tying up money in excess stock, funds can be allocated to other areas of the business, such as marketing or product development.
-
Adaptability to Seasonal Demand
BigCommerce inventory management allows businesses to easily adjust stock levels in response to seasonal trends or promotional events. By analyzing past sales data, businesses can forecast demand and prepare for busy seasons without overcommitting resources.
-
Compliance and Reporting
Many businesses need to maintain compliance with industry-specific regulations regarding inventory. BigCommerce’s robust inventory management systems help with accurate reporting and record-keeping, ensuring compliance with various regulations such as tax laws or import/export requirements.
-
Reduction of Dead Stock
Proper inventory management helps identify and minimize dead stock—items that remain unsold for extended periods. By identifying slow-moving products, businesses can create promotions or clearance sales to free up space and improve cash flow.
-
Sustainability
Managing inventory efficiently can contribute to sustainability efforts. By reducing waste associated with overproduction or overstocking, businesses can operate in a more environmentally friendly manner. This can also be a selling point for eco-conscious consumers.
-
Competitive Advantage
Efficient inventory management can serve as a competitive advantage. By having better control over stock levels and delivery times than competitors, businesses can offer superior service, gain customer trust, and stand out in a crowded market.
Inventory management, especially in a platform as robust as BigCommerce, is a cornerstone of efficient ecommerce operations. It directly impacts everything from sales and customer satisfaction to cost control and business growth.
Get our experienced team to run your Ecommerce store now
Find the simples way to tackle the complexity of selling online with Intellect Outsource.
Get your free quote now !How to manage inventory in BigCommerce Stores?
BigCommerce is a leading ecommerce platform designed to help businesses of all sizes create and manage their online stores.
BigCommerce has powerful tools that help you keep an eye on your inventory more effectively. From tracking the number of remaining products to creating low inventory alerts, here's how you can apply these aspects:
To start managing your BigCommerce inventory, log into your admin dashboard.
Manage Stock Updates on Product Catalog Level
Go to Products and click the View button to access your product catalog.
If inventory tracking is enabled, you can manage product stock directly on the same page.
Products with track inventory can be identified by a '+' button on the right side of the product listing.
By Click on the '+' button will expand the inventory fields as shown below
The updated stock level will be published once you click the save button.
Manage Stock Updates using Bulk Editor
Go to Products and click the View button to access your product catalog.
To change the stock level, select the desired products by checking the box on the right side of the product listing.
From the upper menu, choose 'Bulk Edit' in the 'Choose an Action' dropdown, then click the Confirm button next to the dropdown.
The product catalog page will redirect to the Bulk Edit page as show below
To change the inventory tracking status, simply click the 'Track Inventory' field and choose the tracking option.
For non-variant products, only two options are available: 'No Tracking' and 'Product Level.' If you wish to track inventory for a product, select the 'Product Level' option. Only then you will be able to update the stock for that product.
If you need track inventory for variant products, select the 'Variant level' option. By Click on the right side '+' button will expand the inventory fields for variants
The updated stock level in the current stock field will be published once you click the save button at the bottom of the page.
Manage Stock Updates on Product Edit Page
Go to Products and click the View button to access your product catalog.
Click on the product name you wish to edit. The catalog page will redirect to Product Edit page
Click on the Inventory on Basic Information section and check the Track inventory box
Manage Product Level
This option is typically used for managing stock levels of individual/single products.
Here, you can specify the current stock quantity in the "Stock" field and set a low stock threshold in the "Low Stock" field.
On the variant level
If your products have variants or options (e.g., sizes, colors), BigCommerce allows you to manage inventory at the variant level. This ensures accurate tracking and prevents overselling specific configurations.
For that, select On the variant level, then fill stock and low stock fields for all variants as shown below.
Once all details are updated, click on the “SAVE” button.
Manage Stock using Bulk Import
BigCommerce provides bulk edit and import features to help simplify the management of several products' inventories.
If you have a large number of products that require regular stock updates (daily, twice weekly, etc.), consider using BigCommerce's bulk import method instead of manual updates.
This lets you use CSV files to update stock levels, prices, and other information in a single go.
-
Step 1: Export product SKUs from store. For that click on “Export Product SKUs” option under the "Products" menu.
Step 2: You will receive a CSV file. Open the file, and update the stock in the "Stock Level" column and save the file as shown below.
Optionally, you can include product width, depth, and height fields if you need to make additional edits or additions.
Step 3: Next, we need to import the CSV file.
Click on "Products" > "Import Product SKUs", then choose the file you previously updated.
Step 4: Click on “Next”.
Then, you will see a window like the one below.
Make sure all columns in the import file match the import fields perfectly. This mapping is crucial for accurate data transfer and processing.
Afterward, click on "Next". That's it! Your stock levels will now be imported successfully.
-
Integrating with Inventory Management Systems
In addition to manual and bulk import methods, BigCommerce seamlessly integrates with a various third-party system like ChannelAdvisor, ShipStation, Brightpearl, and more. These integrations enable businesses to effectively manage their inventory across diverse channels and platforms.
By integrating BigCommerce third-party tools, businesses automate repetitive tasks such as inventory updates, order processing, and customer data synchronization.
Your BigCommerce store's efficient inventory control enables smooth operations and fulfills customer expectations.
Configuration of Inventory Management in BigCommerce
Configuring inventory management in your BigCommerce store is the first step towards efficient stock control. Here’s how you can get started:
- Accessing the Dashboard: Log into your BigCommerce admin dashboard. It will navigate to the “Products” section where you will find the inventory settings.
- Enabling Inventory Tracking: To start tracking inventory, go to the “Inventory” tab under the product settings. Here, you can enable the “Track Inventory” option. This allows BigCommerce to monitor stock levels automatically.
- Setting Up Basic Inventory Settings: Configure the basic settings such as stock levels, low stock alerts, and out-of-stock visibility. These settings ensure that you are always aware of your inventory status and can take timely actions to replenish stock.
- Integrating with POS Systems: If you use POS systems like Square or Shopify, integrate them with your BigCommerce store to synchronize inventory data across all sales channels. This integration helps in maintaining accurate inventory levels and prevents overselling.
By following these steps, you can set up a robust inventory management system in your BigCommerce store, ensuring smooth operations and satisfied customers.
Product and Variant Management in BigCommerce
Managing products and their variants in BigCommerce is crucial for maintaining an organized inventory. Here’s how you can effectively handle product and variant management:
- Adding New Products: To add a new product, go to the “Products” section in your BigCommerce dashboard and click on “Add Product.” Fill in the necessary details such as product name, SKU, price, and stock levels. Don’t forget to add high-quality images and detailed descriptions to attract customers.
- Editing Existing Products: For existing products, navigate to the product list, select the product you want to edit, and update the necessary fields. This includes adjusting stock levels, changing prices, or updating product descriptions.
- Managing Product Variants: If your products come in different variants (e.g., sizes, colors), BigCommerce allows you to manage these variants individually. Go to the “Variants” tab under the product settings and add the different options. Set stock levels and prices for each variant to ensure accurate inventory tracking.
- Bulk Editing: Use the bulk edit feature to update multiple products at once. This is particularly useful during the holiday season when you need to make quick adjustments to your inventory.
By efficiently managing your products and variants, you can ensure that your BigCommerce store runs smoothly and meets customer expectations.
Order and Shipping Management in BigCommerce
Effective order and shipping management are key to maintaining customer satisfaction and streamlining your operations. Here’s how you can manage orders and shipping in BigCommerce:
- Order Processing: When a customer places an order, it appears in the “Orders” section of your BigCommerce dashboard. Review the order details, confirm payment, and update the order status. You can also print packing slips and invoices directly from the dashboard.
- Shipping Integrations: BigCommerce integrates with various shipping carriers like FedEx, UPS, and USPS. Set up these integrations in the “Shipping” section to automate shipping calculations and print shipping labels. This ensures accurate shipping costs and timely deliveries.
- Tracking Shipments: Once an order is shipped, update the tracking information in the order details. This allows customers to track their shipments in real-time, enhancing their shopping experience.
- Handling Returns: Manage returns efficiently by setting up a clear return policy and using the return management features in BigCommerce. This includes generating return labels and updating inventory levels upon receiving returned items.
By mastering order and shipping management, you can ensure that your BigCommerce store delivers a seamless shopping experience to your customers.
Inventory Reporting and Analysis in BigCommerce
Inventory reporting and analysis are essential for making informed business decisions. BigCommerce offers various tools to help you generate detailed reports and analyze your inventory data:
- Generating Inventory Reports: Navigate to the “Reports” section in your BigCommerce dashboard. Here, you can generate reports on stock levels, sales performance, and product trends. These reports provide valuable insights into your inventory status and help you identify best-selling products.
- Analyzing Sales Data: Use the sales reports to analyze customer behavior and demand trends. This information helps you adjust your inventory levels and stock up on popular items, ensuring you meet customer demand.
- Customizing Reports: Customize your reports by selecting specific date ranges, product categories, or sales channels. This allows you to focus on the data that matters most to your business.
- Integrating with Analytics Tools: Integrate BigCommerce with third-party analytics tools like Google Analytics to gain deeper insights into your inventory performance. These tools provide advanced analytics and visualization options, helping you make data-driven decisions.
By leveraging inventory reporting and analysis, you can optimize your inventory management and drive business growth.
Optimization of Inventory Management in BigCommerce
Optimizing inventory management in your BigCommerce store involves implementing best practices and using advanced tools to streamline operations. Here are some tips to help you optimize your inventory management:
- Automating Reorder Points: Set up automated reorder points to ensure that you never run out of stock. BigCommerce allows you to set low stock alerts, which notify you when inventory levels fall below a certain threshold. This helps you reorder products in a timely manner.
- Using Inventory Management Software: Integrate your BigCommerce store with inventory management software like NetSuite, Brightpearl, or Linnworks. These tools offer advanced features such as automated stock updates, order processing, and inventory synchronization across multiple channels.
- Implementing Just-In-Time Inventory: Adopt a just-in-time (JIT) inventory strategy to minimize storage costs and reduce the risk of overstocking. This involves ordering products only when needed, based on customer demand and sales forecasts.
- Regularly Auditing Inventory: Conduct regular inventory audits to ensure that your stock levels are accurate. This helps you identify discrepancies and take corrective actions to prevent stockouts or overstocking.
- Optimizing Warehouse Operations: Improve your warehouse operations by organizing products efficiently, using barcode scanners, and implementing a robust inventory management system. This ensures that products are easily accessible and reduces the time taken to fulfill orders.
By following these optimization tips, you can enhance your inventory management processes and ensure the smooth operation of your BigCommerce store.
8 Best BigCommerce Inventory Management Service Providers
Intellect Outsource
Intellect Outsource is the ultimate ecommerce inventory management service provider for online retailers worldwide. We know how challenging managing inventory is for businesses. For any e-commerce business, whether you are starting or have been in this field for a while now, keeping the optimal stock levels is favorable for your business to run smoothly and satisfy its customers. That's why we are excited to offer Inventory and Stock Level Management services tailored specifically for BigCommerce across the globe.
Effective inventory management is crucial for any online store. If you need help entering or updating product data, check out our BigCommerce product data entry services to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
NetSuite
Brightpearl
Linnworks
Ordoro
Sellbrite
Cin7
Veeqo
Ecomdash
