The metal industry—encompassing fabrication, processing, stamping, machining, and manufacturing—requires industry-specific ERP solutions to handle complex workflows, fluctuating material costs, and precision production. A Metal ERP system streamlines operations across the shop floor and supply chain, helping businesses manage jobs efficiently, track inventory, and ensure product quality.
This guide explores the key features, benefits, and top ERP systems designed specifically for metal fabrication and metalworking companies in 2025.
What is a Metal ERP?
A Metal ERP is a tailored enterprise resource planning solution built to meet the needs of metal fabricators, processors, distributors, and manufacturers. It supports critical functions such as quoting, job tracking, nesting, material optimization, inventory management, quality assurance, and customer relationship management.
Unlike generic ERP systems, Metal ERP platforms understand the unique workflows in metal industries, such as coil/slit/plate management, scrap tracking, multi-stage production, and complex pricing models.
Key Features of a Metal ERP System
✅ Quoting & Estimating: Rapid, accurate quotes based on material specs, labor, machining time, and customizations.
✅ Job Shop Management: Real-time tracking of work orders, machine schedules, and production progress.
✅ Material Management: Track coil, sheet, tube, bar, and custom-cut material inventory with remnants handling.
✅ Nesting Optimization: Automatically optimize cutting patterns to minimize scrap and maximize material yield.
✅ Quality Assurance: Implement inspection plans, certifications (ISO 9001, AS9100), and traceability documentation.
✅ Sales & CRM Integration: Manage customer orders, quotes, contracts, and after-sales support.
✅ Financial Management: Link job costing, labor tracking, and invoicing seamlessly.
Benefits of Using Metal ERP
🔹 Faster Quotations: Improve win rates by turning around quotes faster and more accurately.
🔹 Higher Material Utilization: Minimize waste and scrap with intelligent material planning.
🔹 Shop Floor Visibility: Monitor machine usage, job status, and operator performance in real time.
🔹 Improved Customer Service: Meet tight deadlines with better scheduling and inventory control.
🔹 Regulatory Compliance: Maintain documentation needed for industry certifications and audits.
Industries That Benefit from Metal ERP
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Metal Fabrication | Welding, cutting, bending, stamping |
| Sheet Metal Processing | Coil slitting, blanking, sheet forming |
| Metal Machining | CNC milling, turning, drilling |
| Steel Service Centers | Distribution, slitting, shearing |
| Aerospace/Defense | Precision parts manufacturing with strict quality controls |
| Automotive Suppliers | Parts production, metal stamping, custom assemblies |
Top Metal ERP Solutions in 2025
1. Epicor Kinetic (formerly Epicor ERP)
Best for: Mid-sized to large metal fabricators.
Key Features:
- Advanced production scheduling
- Manufacturing Execution System (MES) integration
- Strong inventory and job costing modules
2. Global Shop Solutions ERP
Best for: Job shops and custom metal fabrication businesses.
Key Features:
- Quote to cash management
- Material traceability and nesting optimization
- Real-time shop floor tracking
3. JobBOSS²
Best for: Small to mid-sized metal job shops.
Key Features:
- Shop management, quoting, scheduling
- Mobile app for shop floor data capture
- Cloud or on-premise options
4. Infor CloudSuite Industrial (SyteLine)
Best for: Complex metal manufacturing with multi-plant operations.
Key Features:
- Advanced scheduling, order management
- Multi-site, multi-currency support
- Strong financial and compliance modules
5. ProShop ERP
Best for: Precision metalworking shops and aerospace suppliers.
Key Features:
- Paperless job travelers and quality control
- AS9100/ISO certification management
- Integrated ERP + MES system
How to Choose the Best Metal ERP for Your Business
1️⃣ Assess Production Complexity: Ensure the ERP handles multi-process routing, nesting, and secondary operations.
2️⃣ Check for Material Optimization: Look for nesting software integration to maximize sheet and coil usage.
3️⃣ Prioritize Traceability: Ensure full lot and heat number tracking for metals.
4️⃣ Plan for Scalability: Choose a system that supports your growth into new facilities or markets.
5️⃣ Focus on User-Friendly Interfaces: Adoption is easier when systems are intuitive for operators and admins alike.
Conclusion
A Metal ERP system empowers fabricators, processors, and manufacturers to boost efficiency, reduce material costs, improve customer satisfaction, and ensure compliance.
Solutions like Epicor Kinetic, Global Shop Solutions, JobBOSS², Infor CloudSuite, and ProShop ERP are purpose-built to meet the unique needs of metal-focused industries.
Investing in the right ERP is the foundation for smarter production, better profitability, and long-term competitiveness.