I recall an instance with an old client who confessed something wild:
Their brand, a fast-growing DTC apparel company, was losing thousands of dollars per week due to inventory sync issues between their ERP and Shopify.
Their team had been manually reconciling inventory across platforms, but overselling, stockouts, and backorder nightmares were still slipping through the cracks.
The kicker?
They assumed this was just the cost of doing business on multiple platforms.
I’m here to tell you, it’s not.
And if you’re running an eCommerce operation across Salesforce Commerce Cloud (SFCC), Shopify, or any other mix of platforms, chances are you’re bleeding revenue too.
Let’s break down why inventory sync is harder than it looks, and how to actually fix it.
Why Inventory Sync Fails (Even When You Think It’s Working)
On paper, syncing inventory across platforms should be simple:
- A customer places an order.
- The system updates inventory in real-time.
- Every connected platform reflects the new stock levels.
In reality? That’s not what happens.
The most common problems:
- Delayed API updates – Some platforms don’t update inventory in real time, leading to overselling.
- Batch processing issues – Some systems sync in bulk every few minutes or hours, creating gaps where customers can buy out-of-stock items.
- Third-party app conflicts – If multiple tools (like ERP systems or WMS solutions) update inventory separately, you can end up with mismatches.
The result? Phantom inventory, oversells, and frustrated customers.
The Fix: Syncing Inventory Like a Pro
Most brands throw band-aid solutions at this problem, like manually reconciling stock every day or overstocking to prevent sellouts.
Instead, here’s how to actually fix it:
1. Use a Real-Time Sync Layer
A middleware solution (like an OMS or an advanced inventory sync tool) ensures instant inventory updates across SFCC, Shopify, and any other channels.
2. Set a Safety Stock Buffer
If your sync isn’t truly real-time, create a buffer stock to prevent overselling. Example: If you have 10 items in stock, only show 8 as available.
3. Normalize Your Inventory Logic
Ensure every system follows the same inventory rules, whether it’s SFCC, Shopify, your ERP, or your warehouse software. Standardize safety stock, reserve logic, and allocation methods.
4. Monitor for Sync Failures (and Automate Alerts)
Don’t assume sync is working. Set up alerts for inventory mismatches across platforms and proactively fix discrepancies before they cost you sales.
The Bottom Line
If you’re running multiple eCommerce platforms and your inventory sync isn’t airtight, you’re losing money.
Brands that fix this problem typically see:
✅ Fewer oversells and backorders (better customer experience)
✅ Lower operational costs (no more manual inventory adjustments)
✅ Increased revenue (because you’re never under- or overselling)
Most brands treat inventory sync failures as “normal.” They’re not. They’re just fixable.
If your team is struggling with this, it’s time to stop patching the problem and start solving it.
And that’s all for today.