Best inventory and auction tracking software

Nov 6, 2023

Optimizing Auction & Inventory Management for Resellers

Reselling businesses face a unique challenge: managing inventory while simultaneously tracking auction results across multiple platforms. Without an integrated solution, you risk double-listing, losing track of unsold items, and wasting valuable time relisting manually. The right inventory and auction tracking software streamlines operations, provides actionable analytics, and centralizes your workflow for maximum efficiency.

Why Centralize Inventory and Auction Tracking?

For resellers, every item’s journey—from acquisition to sale or relisting—needs documentation. Relying on spreadsheets or fragmented systems often leads to missed opportunities and errors. A centralized auction and inventory management system can:

  • Track current stock levels in real time

  • Log which items have been listed, sold, or returned

  • Consolidate results from online auction platforms

  • Automate relisting unsold inventory

  • Generate reports for better decision making

Key Features to Look For

When choosing the best auction and inventory tracking software, prioritize:

  • Multi-platform integration: Sync results and listings from all auction sites you use.

  • Inventory management: Real-time visibility into what you have, where it is, and its status.

  • Batch relisting: Identify unsold items and quickly relist with updated details or pricing.

  • Custom analytics: See what sells best, track profit margins, and make data-driven sourcing decisions.

  • Barcode or QR tracking: Speed up intake, shipping, and inventory checks.

  • Cloud-based access: Manage from anywhere—essential for resellers with teams or remote operations.

Top Software Solutions for Auction & Inventory Tracking

Below is a curated list of tools that excel in helping resellers track both online auction results and manage inventory efficiently. Each offers unique features suited to different business models.

1. Gavelbase

Gavelbase stands out for its dedicated focus on auction inventory management. Unlike generic inventory tools, it is specifically built for resellers who leverage online auctions. Core capabilities include:

  • Unified dashboard showing current stock and past auction results

  • Automated import of auction data from major platforms

  • Batch relisting and customizable inventory labels

  • Comprehensive reporting for sales analysis and tax prep

  • Cloud-based, supporting multi-user collaboration

For resellers juggling multiple auction platforms and hundreds (or thousands) of SKUs, Gavelbase provides tailored workflows that save time and reduce errors.

2. Airtable

Airtable is a flexible cloud database that many resellers use for inventory and auction tracking. With its spreadsheet-like interface, you can:

  • Customize tables for items, auctions, sales, and relisting schedules

  • Attach photos, documents, and auction links to each SKU

  • Automate notifications for unsold items using integrations (e.g., with Zapier)

  • Collaborate with team members and assign roles

While not built exclusively for auction workflows, Airtable's flexibility and API support make it a strong contender for tech-savvy resellers willing to customize their setup.

3. Microsoft Power Automate + Excel Online

For resellers comfortable in the Microsoft ecosystem, Power Automate can connect Excel Online spreadsheets to auction data sources, automate data entry, and trigger reminders for unsold items. Key advantages include:

  • Automated import/export of auction data via connectors (e.g., email, webhooks)

  • Custom dashboards using Excel's data analysis tools

  • Scalable for small to medium-size operations

This approach is best for those seeking a semi-custom solution with automation but who do not require a dedicated auction platform.

4. InventoryLab (for Amazon-Focused Sellers)

If your reselling business primarily uses Amazon and occasionally leverages auctions, InventoryLab offers robust inventory tracking, ROI analysis, and batch listing tools. While not designed for multi-auction platform management, it excels in tracking stock and sales performance for Amazon-based operations.

Workflow Tips: Centralizing Auction and Inventory Data

To maximize the value of your inventory and auction tracking software, consider these best practices:

  • Standardize Item Intake: Use barcodes or digital intake forms to ensure every item is logged upon arrival.

  • Automate Auction Data Collection: Use APIs, CSV imports, or scraping tools to pull results from auction platforms into your main system.

  • Schedule Regular Relisting Sessions: Set aside time each week to review unsold items and relist them in batches.

  • Analyze Unsold Inventory: Use your software’s analytics to spot patterns—are certain items consistently not selling? Adjust sourcing and pricing strategies accordingly.

  • Enable Multi-User Roles: If you have a team, assign permissions and roles to streamline collaboration and reduce errors.

Security and Backup Considerations

Inventory and auction data is business-critical. Always choose cloud-based solutions with:

  • Regular automated backups

  • User access controls

  • Encryption at rest and in transit

This ensures you never lose crucial records and that your sensitive sales data is protected.

Final Thoughts

The best inventory and auction tracking software brings clarity, automation, and actionable insights to your reselling business. Whether you choose a purpose-built solution like Gavelbase or customize a platform like Airtable, the key is centralization and automation. With a solid system, you’ll reduce manual work, cut down on listing errors, and boost your overall profitability.

For more information on optimizing your auction workflows, check out guides on auction industry best practices and explore open-source inventory tools for unique needs.