The verdict in three sentences
An ERP stock module does the minimum: levels, inbound, outbound. A dedicated real-time app adds AI replenishment forecasts, multi-warehouse consolidation and smart alerts that cut overstock and stockouts. Custom pays off once your stock ties up hundreds of thousands of euros and -28 % overstock frees meaningful cash.
SaaS vs custom: the 2026 comparison
For a supply chain manager the monthly cost is only part of the equation. The real question is the value freed on tied-up stock.
| Criterion | SaaS inventory | Custom app |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 300-1,200 EUR/month | 55,000-140,000 EUR |
| Consolidated multi-warehouse | Plan-dependent | Native |
| AI replenishment forecast | Rare or premium | Custom |
| ERP/WMS integration | Limited connectors | 8,000-25,000 EUR dedicated |
| Implementation time | 2-6 weeks | 10-18 weeks |
| Maintenance | Included in subscription | 15 %/year of build |
| Target overstock reduction | -10-15 % | -28 % |
SaaS starts fast and cheap; custom captures structural cash gains that a subscription caps.
What makes up the custom budget
A real-time stock app is quoted by functional block.
| Block | Scope | Indicative budget |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-warehouse consolidation | Single view, inter-site transfers | 15,000-35,000 EUR |
| AI replenishment forecast | History, seasonality, lead times | 18,000-40,000 EUR |
| Alerts & thresholds | Stockout, overstock, expiry | 6,000-14,000 EUR |
| ERP / WMS integration | Two-way sync | 8,000-25,000 EUR |
| Dashboards | Service level, turnover, value | 8,000-20,000 EUR |
Total delivery runs 10 to 18 weeks, with maintenance at 15 %/year.
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Mini case study
Karim, supply chain manager of a distributor in Montreal (5 warehouses, 3.2 M EUR tied-up stock), runs 12 % overstock and an 88 % service level. A custom app at 95,000 EUR plus 14,250 EUR maintenance/year cuts overstock by 28 %, i.e. roughly 896,000 EUR of stock freed, and lifts the service level toward the 100 % target (+15 points). The cash freed funds the project more than nine times over in the first year.
FAQ
Isn't SaaS inventory enough? For one or two warehouses with simple flows, yes, at 300-1,200 EUR/month. Once you consolidate multiple sites and want AI forecasts, custom avoids plan limits and restricted connectors.
How much is integration with my ERP? Budget 8,000 to 25,000 EUR for a reliable two-way sync. That is what removes double entry and keeps your stock levels reliable in real time.
What overstock gain can I expect? Replenishment forecasting driven by history and seasonality targets -28 % overstock, directly freeing cash tied in slow-moving lines.
What is the deployment timeline? From 10 to 18 weeks by block. Multi-warehouse consolidation can be delivered first, in 6-8 weeks, for a quick effect.
Can we keep our current WMS? Yes, the app plugs into the existing WMS via dedicated integration, without replacing it. It adds the forecasting and consolidation layer on top.
Let's scope your project. Tell us your warehouse count, stock value and current service level, and we will frame a phased app with an indicative budget. 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.
