The verdict in three sentences
ERP integration pricing hinges first on one question: does the API already exist on the ERP side, or must it be built? In 2026 in Dublin, a simple REST connector runs about 12,000 EUR, a two-way stock/order synchronisation 28,000 EUR. The line almost always forgotten is the annual run — 10 to 15 % of the build for maintenance and sync-error handling.
ERP integration cost grid in 2026
The figures below are 2026 orders of magnitude for a distribution company, at a mid-market day rate.
| Integration type | Build cost 2026 (EUR) | Person-days | Estimated annual run (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple REST connector (read) | 12,000 | 20-25 | 1,500 |
| Two-way stock/order sync | 28,000 | 45-55 | 3,600 |
| Accounting + payroll connector | 21,000 | 35-40 | 2,700 |
| Multi-flow integration bus | 43,000 | 65-80 | 5,700 |
A typical distribution project combines stock/order sync + accounting connector, roughly 49,000 EUR of build and 6,300 EUR/year of run.
Existing API vs API to build
The factor that doubles or triples an integration budget is the state of the ERP-side API. Here is what changes concretely.
| Situation | Extra cost vs ready API | Added delay | Main risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Documented, stable REST API | baseline | 0 | Low |
| Existing but poorly documented API | +40 % | +2 weeks | Mismapped fields |
| API to build on ERP side | +90 % | +4-6 weeks | Vendor dependency |
| File-based export/import (no API) | +25 % | +1 week | Latency, duplicates |
Beyond the connector, budget the licence of some vendor connectors (900 to 2,800 EUR/year), error handling and idempotency (replaying a sync without creating duplicates), and logging to trace every flow.
Mini case study
Aoife, IT manager at a distribution company in Dublin, wants to connect her sales app to the ERP to sync stock and orders in real time. The two-way connector is quoted at 28,000 EUR (50 person-days). Before integration, her teams re-keyed 40 orders/day — about 3 hours/day lost and 6 % stock errors. After go-live the re-keying disappears: 660 hours saved/year, reliable stock, and a return on investment reached in under 11 months including run.
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FAQ
How much for a simple ERP connector in 2026?
A read-only REST connector starts at 12,000 EUR (20-25 person-days). A two-way stock/order sync rises to 28,000 EUR.
Why is an API to build so expensive?
Because work is needed on the ERP side, often via the vendor: expect +90 % cost and 4 to 6 extra weeks. An already-documented API is the ideal scenario.
What is idempotency and why pay for it?
It guarantees a replayed sync does not create duplicates (double order or double accounting entry). Without it, a mere network drop can distort your stock and books.
What annual maintenance budget should I plan?
The run is 10 to 15 % of the build, roughly 3,600 to 6,300 EUR/year for a distribution project. It covers fixes, version upgrades and flow monitoring.
Do I need an API or is file export enough?
File export/import costs 25 % less but adds latency and duplicate risk. For real-time stock/orders, a proper API remains essential.
Let's scope your project. Tell us which ERP you run, which flows to sync (stock, orders, accounting) and whether the API exists: we price build and run precisely. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
