Inventory management can make or break a high-volume eCommerce operation.
If you’re running a multichannel business with thousands of SKUs, even small missteps can result in costly errors, lost sales, and frustrated customers. At Freestyle Solutions, we’ve worked with countless merchants using our M.O.M. system to help them regain control of their inventory and scale with confidence.
Here are five of the most common inventory management mistakes we see — and how your business can avoid them.
1. Relying on Manual Processes
Manual inventory tracking via spreadsheets or disconnected systems is a recipe for inaccuracy. Human error is inevitable, especially when inventory data needs to be updated across multiple sales channels.
How to avoid it:
Automate inventory tracking with a centralized order and inventory management system like M.O.M. This eliminates duplicate data entry and syncs inventory in real-time across all your channels — including SiteLINK, marketplaces, and more.
2. Poor Forecasting
Without accurate forecasting, you risk stockouts during peak seasons or overstocking slow-moving items that tie up capital.
How to avoid it:
Leverage historical sales data and reporting tools to make informed forecasting decisions. M.O.M. gives you access to robust reporting modules that help you spot trends and plan smarter.
3. Lack of Real-Time Visibility
Do you know your stock levels right now — across all locations and channels? Without real-time visibility, it’s nearly impossible to manage inventory efficiently.
How to avoid it:
Use an inventory solution that provides real-time updates and integrates with your fulfillment centers and sales platforms. With M.O.M., every transaction is tracked and reflected instantly, so you always know what’s in stock.
4. Inefficient Reorder Processes
Manual or reactive reordering can result in missed sales and shipping delays. Many businesses reorder based on guesswork or wait too long to replenish popular items.
How to avoid it:
Set reorder points and automate purchase orders using M.O.M.’s purchasing and vendor modules. You’ll get alerts when items reach low thresholds, so you can stay ahead of demand.
5. No Process for Handling Returns
Returns can wreak havoc on your inventory if not properly managed. Inventory may not be restocked quickly, or worse — may be forgotten altogether.
How to avoid it:
Streamline returns with workflows that automatically track returned items, restock them if sellable, and update inventory counts in real time. M.O.M. supports end-to-end return processing for better inventory accuracy.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these common mistakes can dramatically improve your operational efficiency and bottom line. If your current system is holding you back, it might be time to explore a solution designed specifically for growing, high-volume multichannel businesses.
Ready to streamline your inventory processes?
Contact Freestyle Software to learn how M.O.M. gives you the power, flexibility, and control you need to scale smarter.
