Construction projects don’t slow down for missing materials. When tools, parts, or supplies can’t be found, the whole jobsite feels it. Many times, delays stack up, costs rise, and projects can end up falling behind schedule. That’s why more contractors and project managers are turning to inventory management systems (sometimes called materials management) to keep everything organized and accessible.
Even if you don’t think of what you store as “inventory,” the reality is the moment materials land on a jobsite, your trailers, storage racks, and Conex boxes just became a warehouse. Without a system to manage it, you’re losing time and money.
So, how do you choose the right system or software? It comes down to features that solve construction’s unique challenges: multiple storage sites, fast-moving projects, and the constant need for real-time updates.
If you’re not sure where to start, here are five must-have features to look for when evaluating your materials management options.
1. Aligns With Your Workflow—From Jobsite to Warehouse
Construction materials don’t stay in one place. They move between warehouses, trucks, trailers, and jobsites. A strong inventory or materials management system should follow those same workflows—tracking items no matter where they’re stored or moved.
Look for a system that allows you to:
- Assign materials to specific projects
- Track transfers between sites
- View consolidated inventory levels at a glance
This ensures field crews and office staff are working from the same data, reducing confusion and wasted time.
2. Real-Time Visibility Whenever You Need It
In construction, yesterday’s numbers aren’t good enough. You need to know what’s available right now, whether it’s conduit, fittings, or heavy equipment.
The right system will provide:
- Live inventory counts across all locations
- Alerts when stock runs low
- Mobile access for crews in the field
This visibility helps prevent costly stockouts and rush orders, while giving project managers confidence that materials are exactly where they should be.
3. Smart Scanning & Barcode Automation
Manual spreadsheets or paper logs create errors—and errors cost money. Barcode and QR code scanning makes materials management faster, easier, and more accurate.
With barcode automation, crews can:
- Instantly check materials in or out
- Scan items directly at the jobsite
- Eliminate double-entry mistakes
This speeds up work and ensures accountability, especially when multiple crews are pulling from the same supply.
4. Scalable ERP Integration
Many construction businesses rely on ERP systems like Sage Intacct or Viewpoint Vista to manage accounting, payroll, and project costs. The best inventory or materials management systems will integrate directly with these platforms, which keeps financial data, purchasing, and jobsite usage in sync.
Questions to ask:
- Does the system connect with your ERP?
- Will it grow with your business as project volume increases?
- Can it scale across multiple locations or subsidiaries?
Choosing a system that integrates well today prevents expensive rework tomorrow.
5. Robust Reporting and ROI Tracking
Tracking materials goes beyond knowing what’s on the shelf. It provides the insights you need to make smarter business decisions. A strong system should generate reports that highlight:
- Usage trends across projects
- Materials loss or shrinkage
- Cost savings from better tracking
These insights transform your system into a decision-making tool that reduces waste and strengthens margins.
Smarter Materials Management Starts Here
The right inventory or materials management system is truly a competitive advantage. With real-time visibility, barcode automation, ERP integration, and data-driven reporting, contractors can cut waste, reduce delays, and keep every project on track.
By choosing a system designed for construction, you’re solving today’s materials challenges AND you’re also laying the foundation for stronger, more efficient projects in the future.
At Nobious, we’ve built an inventory and materials management platform designed specifically for construction teams that seamlessly integrates with your ERP to give you clarity, control, and confidence across every jobsite.
Ready to see how it works? Schedule a demo today and take the first step toward smarter project management!
