Top B2B
eCommerce Platforms
Evaluate Capabilities, Features, and Use Cases of Leading B2B eCommerce platforms for distributors.
What is a B2B eCommerce Platform?
Who can use B2B eCommerce platforms?
What are the different types of eCommerce software?
Open Source eCommerce Platforms
Open-source eCommerce software grants users access to the source code, enabling extensive customization and flexibility. Users have the option to host the software on their own servers or utilize third-party hosting providers, offering increased control over the hosting environment.
These solutions typically require more technical expertise for both setup and ongoing maintenance. Despite the potential learning curve, open-source platforms provide customization capabilities, enabling businesses to customize their online stores to unique requirements. Additionally, it’s important to note that hosting open-source eCommerce software also involves additional costs for server management, security measures, and other related expenses.
Examples of open-source eCommerce software include Magento, WooCommerce, and OroCommerce.
Cloud Based eCommerce Platform
Cloud-based eCommerce software operates exclusively online, hosting all data and operations on remote servers for which businesses pay a subscription fee. These solutions offer scalability, enabling businesses to adjust resources and accommodate growth without significant infrastructure investments. Additionally, cloud-based platforms often boast additional features like integrated security measures, auto-scaling capabilities, and content delivery networks (CDNs) to enhance performance.
The subscription-based model of cloud-based software eliminates the necessity for upfront capital expenditure, rendering it more financially accessible for businesses of varying sizes. This affordability democratizes access to sophisticated eCommerce tools, allowing even small and medium-sized enterprises to compete on a level playing field. Moreover, the predictable monthly or annual subscription fees facilitate budgeting and financial planning for businesses.
The biggest advantage of cloud-based eCommerce software is its seamless integration with other cloud services and third-party applications. This compatibility allows businesses to enhance their online operations by integrating various tools and services, such as payment gateways, marketing automation software, and inventory management systems.
Examples of cloud-based eCommerce software include DCKAP Commerce, Shopify, and BigCommerce.
Use Cases for B2B eCommerce Platform?
1. Wholesale Distribution
Wholesale distributors sell products in bulk to retailers, businesses, or other distributors.
Features Required
- Bulk ordering capabilities
- Custom pricing for different customers
- Integration with ERP systems for inventory management
- Real-time inventory tracking
- Order history and reordering options
2. Manufacturing
Manufacturers use B2B eCommerce platforms to sell parts, components, or finished products to businesses.
Features Required
- Product configuration tools
- Detailed product catalogs with technical specifications
- Integration with production and inventory systems
- Custom pricing and quote management
- Order tracking and management
3. Janitorial Supplies
Providers of cleaning and maintenance products to businesses, schools, hospitals, and other organizations.
Features Required
- Bulk ordering and tiered pricing
- Detailed product descriptions and usage instructions
- Inventory management and real-time stock updates
- Order tracking and automated reordering
- Integration with ERP and supply chain systems
4. Industrial Equipments
Suppliers specializing in heavy machinery, tools, and industrial supplies for businesses seeking reliable equipment solutions.
Features Required
- Detailed product descriptions and specifications
- Bulk ordering and tiered pricing
- Integration with logistics and shipping providers
- Quote and proposal management
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics
5. Electrical Supplies
Suppliers of electrical components, wiring, and systems to contractors, manufacturers, and other businesses.
Features Required
- Detailed product specifications and compatibility information
- Bulk ordering and custom pricing
- Real-time inventory management and live stock updates
- Order tracking and delivery scheduling
- Integration with ERP and logistics systems
6. Hydraulics Supplies
Distributors of hydraulic components and systems to various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and agriculture.
Features Required
- Detailed technical specifications and product configurations
- Custom pricing and bulk ordering
- Integration with inventory management and ERP systems
- Real-time stock updates and order tracking
- Comprehensive product catalogs and documentation
7. Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
Suppliers of medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare products.
Features Required
- Compliance with regulatory standards
- Secure transactions and data handling
- Detailed product information and documentation
- Custom pricing and bulk ordering
- Integration with inventory and ERP systems
8. Automotive Parts and Supplies
Distributors of auto parts and accessories to repair shops, retailers, and other businesses.
Features Required
- Extensive product catalogs with fitment data
- Inventory management and real-time stock updates
- Custom pricing and discounts
- Order history and easy reordering
- Integration with ERP and logistics systems
9. Office Supplies and Equipment
Suppliers of office products, furniture, and equipment provide a wide range of essential items for workplaces.
Features Required
- Catalog management with detailed product descriptions
- Bulk ordering and custom pricing
- Order tracking and management
- Integration with CRM and ERP systems
- Automated replenishment options
10. HVAC Supplies
Suppliers of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment and components.
Features Required
- Detailed product specifications and compatibility.
- Bulk ordering and custom pricing.
- Service and maintenance scheduling integration.
- Seamless CRM and ERP integration.
- Real-time inventory management to prevent stockouts.
How to choose the right b2b ecommerce software for distributors?
Choosing the right eCommerce software for distributors involves several key considerations. Assess business needs, including scale, product catalog complexity, and required B2B features like bulk ordering and custom pricing. Look for platforms with high customization capabilities and seamless ERP integration. Ensure scalability for business growth, with cloud-based solutions often being more scalable. Evaluate the user interface for ease of use, compare total costs, and ensure strong security measures. Lastly, assess the level of customer support and essential features like inventory management and order processing.
What's the Best B2B eCommerce Platform for Your Business?
Key Features of B2B eCommerce Platforms
Contract Pricing
Different customers may receive different pricing based on contracts and various factors such as purchase volume, contract terms, or customer segment. Your platform should support custom pricing configurations, enabling you to set tiered pricing, volume discounts, or personalized pricing for specific accounts.
Account Management
- Multiple User Accounts: Allows businesses to create and manage multiple user profiles under a single business entity, enabling different roles and permissions to different team members. It facilitates collaborative work while maintaining security and privacy within the eCommerce platform.
- Approval Workflows: Establishes structured processes for order approvals, ensuring adherence to internal purchasing protocols and compliance standards. By automating approval procedures, it streamlines the purchasing workflow, reducing manual intervention and potential errors.
Bulk Ordering
B2B customers frequently place large orders, so your platform should simplify this process. Features like bulk order forms, quick order pads, and CSV file uploads for large orders can streamline purchasing, saving your customers time.
Integration with ERP and CRM Systems
- ERP Integration: Seamlessly connects with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for real-time data exchange on inventory, orders, and financials. Popular integrations like SAP, Oracle, Epicor Prophet 21 (P21), Microsoft Dynamics, and NetSuite should be considered.
- CRM Integration: Syncs with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems to provide detailed customer insights and enhance sales strategies.
Order Management
- Order Tracking: Provides real-time tracking of order status and shipment, ensuring customers are always informed about their purchases.
- Reorder Functionality: Streamlines repeat purchases with quick reorder features, saving time for customers.
Payment and Credit Management
- Flexible Payment Options: Supports various payment methods, including credit terms, purchase orders, and online payments, providing customers with multiple convenient ways to complete their transactions.
- Credit Limit Management: Manages customer credit limits and tracks outstanding balances, ensuring customers stay within their approved spending limits.
Sales Representatives
Seamlessly integrating sales representatives into your eCommerce platform enhances customer service and relationship management. This enables sales reps to provide personalized assistance with complex orders, offer tailored recommendations, and directly manage accounts within the platform.
Quotes and Negotiations
- Quotes: Allow customers to request quotes for specific products or large orders. Implementing a streamlined quote request process, where customers can easily submit their requirements and receive prompt responses, which enhance the purchasing experience.
- Negotiations: Facilitate negotiation workflows within the platform. This includes tools for sales representatives to communicate with customers, adjust pricing, and finalize terms. Automated notifications and tracking ensure that both parties stay informed throughout the negotiation process.
Advanced Search and Navigation
- Faceted Search: Enhances product search with filters and facets, making it easier for users to find what they need.
- Catalog Management: Organizes products into catalogs designed for specific customers or customer groups.
Security and Compliance
- Data Security: Ensures the safety and integrity of sensitive business data through robust encryption, secure authentication mechanisms, and regular security audits.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensures adherence to industry standards and regulations, safeguarding business operations and customer trust.
Popular B2B eCommerce Platforms
1. DCKAP Commerce
- Overview: DCKAP Commerce is designed specifically for the B2B sector, making it an excellent choice for distributors and wholesalers who need a platform pre designed to their unique needs.
- Key Features:
- Personalized Catalogs: Empowers businesses to curate and manage individualized catalogs for various customers or customer groups.
- Sales Representative Tools: Allows sales reps to seamlessly place orders on behalf of customers by logging in as them, streamlining the sales process.
- Real-Time Inventory Sync: Ensures immediate updates of inventory levels across all sales channels, optimizing inventory management.
- Multi-Warehouse Support: Efficiently manages inventory across multiple warehouses, enhancing operational efficiency.
Pros: Highly adaptable, ideal for distributors, robust support for intricate B2B needs.
Cons: New to the market.
2. BigCommerce
- Overview: BigCommerce provides robust B2B features, focusing on simplicity and scalability. It’s a good option for businesses looking for a balance between functionality and ease of use.
- Key Features:
- Customer Groups: Helps in segmenting customers for targeted marketing and pricing.
- Bulk Pricing: Supports tiered pricing structures.
- Advanced Product Management: Comprehensive tools for managing product data.
- Multi-Channel Selling: Sell across multiple platforms like Amazon, eBay, and social media.
Pros: User-friendly, strong SEO capabilities, scalable.
Cons: Limited native B2B features, may require third-party apps for advanced needs.
3. Magento (Adobe Commerce)
- Overview: Known for its flexibility and comprehensive feature set, Magento Commerce (now Adobe Commerce) is a popular choice for businesses needing extensive customization.
- Key Features:
- Advanced Catalog Management: Robust tools for managing complex product catalogs.
- Customer Segmentation: Create personalized shopping experiences for different customer segments.
- B2B Module: Offers basic B2B functionalities like quote management and corporate accounts.
- Extensive Integrations: Need integration with various third-party systems for complete B2B solution.
Pros: Highly customizable, large community.
Cons: Can be complex to manage, requires significant resources for customization and maintenance.
4. Shopify Plus
- Overview: Shopify Plus extends the capabilities of the popular Shopify platform to better cater to B2B needs. It’s known for its ease of use and extensive support network.
- Key Features:
- Tiered Pricing: Provides tiered pricing models to cater to different customer groups.
- Customer Segmentation: Allows segmentation of customers based on various criteria for targeted marketing efforts.
- API Integrations: Offers extensive integrations with third-party applications and systems.
- B2B Module: Relies on third-party apps for a complete solution.
Pros: Easy to use, scalable.
Cons: May necessitate third-party apps for complete B2B functionality, higher costs.
5. Optimizely
- Overview: Optimizely (formerly Episerver) offers a comprehensive digital experience platform with B2B capabilities.
- Key Features:
- Personalized Content Delivery: Deliver targeted content and product recommendations based on customer behavior.
- A/B Testing and Optimization: Test and optimize different variations of web pages to improve conversion rates.
- Analytics and Insights: Gain deep insights into customer behavior and campaign performance.
- Campaign Management: Plan, execute, and measure marketing campaigns across multiple channels.
Pros: Powerful personalization capabilities, robust A/B testing and optimization tools.
Cons: May require additional setup for complex B2B workflows and integrations.
6. Unilog CX1
- Overview: Unilog CX1 is also designed for B2B eCommerce, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to meet the specific needs.
- Key Features:
- Personalized Catalog Management: Allows for the creation and management of customer-specific catalogs, enhancing the relevance of product offerings.
- Advanced Pricing Options: Provides flexible pricing structures to accommodate different customer segments and purchasing volumes.
- Integrated ERP Functionality: Seamlessly integrates with ERP systems to streamline order processing and inventory management.
- Scalability and Customization: Offers scalability to support business growth and extensive customization options.
Pros: Comes with Data content.
Cons: Limited market presence compared to established platforms, may require additional customization for specific needs.
7. OroCommerce
- Overview: OroCommerce is designed specifically for B2B eCommerce, offering a comprehensive set of features tailored to the needs of B2B transactions.
- Key Features:
- Multi-Organization: Manage multiple business entities within a single platform.
- Multi-Warehouse: Efficiently manage inventory across multiple locations.
- Complex Pricing Structures: Supports advanced pricing models to cater to different customer segments.
- Hosting: Requires technical expertise for setup and ongoing maintenance, leading to higher costs.
Pros: Built specifically for B2B, strong focus on customization and integration.
Cons: Steeper learning curve, more suited for mid to large enterprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Distributors should prioritize features like bulk ordering, custom pricing, real-time inventory sync, ERP integration, multi-warehouse support, and sales representative tools.
ERP integration ensures real-time data synchronization across inventory, orders, and financials, streamlining operations and reducing the risk of errors.
Features like bulk order forms, quick order pads, and CSV file uploads can streamline the ordering process, saving time for customers and improving order accuracy.
A user-friendly interface ensures ease of use for both administrators and customers, reducing the learning curve and improving overall user satisfaction.
Real-time inventory sync ensures accurate stock levels are displayed across all sales channels, preventing overselling and stockouts.
Distributors should compare total costs, including subscription fees, transaction fees, customization, and maintenance costs, to ensure the platform fits their budget.