Metal trading is crucial to Malaysia’s construction, manufacturing, and energy industries. Simply put, it refers to buying and selling metals, from base materials like steel and copper to precious metals used for investment.
However, many companies struggle with price fluctuations, supply chain complexity, and maintaining efficiency. The right software can solve these problems by streamlining processes and giving leaders better control over their operations.
In this article, we share 12 recommended software for metal trading in Malaysia to help managers and C-Suite executives make smarter decisions and achieve sustainable growth.
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What is Metal Trading?
Metal trading is a commercial activity where companies buy and sell metals such as steel, aluminium, copper, and precious metals like gold and silver. It involves transactions across local and international markets, often managed through suppliers, distributors, and trading platforms.
In Malaysia, metal trading is a critical link between producers and businesses that require a steady flow of raw materials to keep their operations running.
How ERP Software Works for Metal Trading?
When looking deeper into metal trading, several fundamental elements shape how companies manage their activities in this sector. Below are the key aspects you need to know:
- Metal trading covers many materials, from base metals like steel, copper, and aluminium to precious metals. Each category has its own market demand and trading process, depending on the industries it serves.
- Trading occurs in domestic markets within Malaysia and international exchanges that set global benchmarks. Companies often balance local availability and global price movements to secure supplies.
- Deals can be managed through direct contracts between companies or facilitated via digital trading platforms. The method chosen often depends on the scale of the business, trading volume, and the level of control required.
- Global market trends, availability of raw materials, and production costs shape prices. These factors can shift quickly, making pricing one of the most dynamic aspects of metal trading.
- The ecosystem involves producers, suppliers, distributors, and trading companies, each playing a role in moving metals from source to end-users. Strong relationships between these stakeholders ensure stability and reliability in the supply chain.
12 Best Metal Trading ERP Software
Choosing the right ERP software can be challenging, especially with so many options available in the market. To simplify the process, we have compiled a list of the 12 best ERP solutions for metal trading businesses. Each software offers unique features to help companies manage their operations more effectively.
1. HashMicro Metal Trading Software
HashMicro is a Singapore based software company established in 2015. It focuses on providing enterprise solutions for businesses in various industries.
Since its founding, the company has grown rapidly and expanded its operations to countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia, building a strong reputation in the Southeast Asian market.
Known for delivering customizable ERP systems, HashMicro has supported many companies in managing complex processes with greater efficiency and visibility. Its metal trading software is designed to meet the specific needs of businesses that deal with large-scale trading and resource management.
Key features:
- Real-Time Inventory Management: Track metal stock levels accurately in real-time to prevent shortages and reduce excess inventory costs, essential for high-volume trading.
- Automated Procurement: Streamline purchasing with automated supplier selection, price comparisons, and purchase order creation, saving time and ensuring competitive pricing.
- Integrated Accounting: Automatically record financial transactions, invoices, and payments, improving accuracy, transparency, and compliance with accounting standards.
- Sales & Order Management: Manage the entire sales process from quotations to invoicing, giving complete visibility into customer orders and improving service efficiency.
- Advanced Reporting & Analytics: Generate actionable reports on sales, costs, and profitability, enabling faster and better-informed decision-making for trading operations.
- Hashy AI Assistance: Utilize AI-powered insights to forecast demand, optimize pricing, and automate routine tasks, enhancing overall productivity and business agility.
2. Epicor Kinetic Trading System
Epicor Kinetic is a versatile ERP solution designed for the metal industry. Although it focuses on metal fabrication, its adaptability suits metal trading companies.
The system helps businesses streamline operations, maintain transaction accuracy, and make informed decisions, all while supporting growth and scalability in a competitive market.
Key features:
- Real-Time Inventory Management
- Automated Procurement Planning
- Cloud-Based Access & Scalability
3. Infor Trading Metal Software
Infor Trading Metal Software is a specialized ERP solution designed to meet the complex needs of metal trading companies. The system helps businesses manage operations efficiently, maintain accurate records, and improve decision-making, supporting both growth and operational scalability.
Infor enables trading companies to streamline workflows and ensure smoother coordination across teams by providing a centralized platform.
Key features:
- Sales and Order Management
- CRM Integration
- Integrated Accounting and Financial Reporting
4. Microsoft Dynamics 365
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a comprehensive ERP solution designed to help metal trading companies run their operations more efficiently. The system enables companies to streamline workflows, maintain accurate records, and make informed decisions, supporting growth while keeping processes coordinated across departments.
Key features:
- Production Planning and Management
- Traceability and Compliance
- Scalability and Cloud Access
5. Odoo
Odoo is a comprehensive ERP solution designed to streamline operations for metal trading companies. By integrating various business processes into a single platform, Odoo enhances efficiency, reduces manual errors, and provides real-time insights, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and adapt to market dynamics effectively.
Key features:
- Sales & Purchase Analysis
- Multi-Currency Support
- Purchase Agreements
6. Oracle
Oracle is a powerful ERP system that helps metal trading companies streamline operations and maintain accurate financial and operational records. Connecting all departments in a centralized platform supports strategic decision-making and enables companies to manage complex trading processes efficiently.
Key features:
- Advanced Order Management & Fulfillment
- Intelligent Supply Chain & Inventory Control
- Strategic Procurement & Supplier Collaboration
- Integrated Financials & Global Trade Management
7. Cetec ERP
Cetec ERP helps metal trading companies simplify their business processes and keep everything running efficiently. Bringing core operations into one platform allows companies to stay organized, improve team coordination, and make better decisions to remain competitive.
Key features:
- Full integration with the operation
- Modernize accounting systems
- Reduce clerical overhead
8. RealSTEEL
RealSTEEL is a specialized Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software built specifically for the metals industry. The system is designed to manage the unique attributes of metal products, including grade, shape, and dimensions, ensuring precise inventory control and traceability from purchase to delivery.
Key features:
- Advanced Material Tracking & Management
- Comprehensive Financial & Reporting Tools
- Enhanced Supply Chain & Logistics
9. EOXS
EOXS is an all-in-one ERP solution designed exclusively for the unique needs of the steel and metals industry. It empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and make data-driven decisions by integrating every aspect of the company into a single, cohesive platform.
Key features:
- Automated Production & Cutting Optimization
- Advanced Sales & CRM
- Quality & Compliance Tracking
10. INVEX ERP
INVEX ERP is a robust, end-to-end enterprise resource planning solution specifically crafted for the metals and steel industry. It helps businesses manage their operations’ entire lifecycle, from procurement and inventory to sales, production, and finance, within a single, integrated platform.
Key features:
- Real-time Inventory and Warehouse Management
- Sales and Quote Management
- Advanced Reporting and Analytics
11. Sage X3 ERP
Sage X3 is a powerful and flexible enterprise management solution that helps mid-sized and large businesses in the metals industry streamline their entire operation. It offers a unified platform to manage everything from supply chain and production to finance and sales.
Key features:
- Robust Financial Management
- Sales and Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
- Advanced Inventory & Warehouse Management
12. SAP S/4HANA
SAP S/4HANA is a next-generation ERP solution designed to help businesses in the metals industry streamline operations and embrace digital transformation.
It provides a powerful, real-time platform that unifies all core processes from supply chain and ERP manufacturing system to finance and sales, enabling companies to make faster, more informed decisions.
Key features:
- Integrated Business Planning and Execution
- Comprehensive Financial and Cost Control
- Optimized Supply Chain and Logistics
How to Choose the Best Metal Trading ERP Software for Your Business
Choosing the right ERP software for trading can feel overwhelming, especially with many available options. A well-chosen cloud ERP solution can help metal trading companies manage operations more efficiently, improve decision-making, and stay competitive in the manufacturing and trading industry. Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Industry Fit
Look for ERP trading software designed to handle the unique needs of metal trading companies, including complex supply chains, pricing models, and manufacturing workflows. A solution that understands your industry will save time and reduce costly customizations.
2. Cloud ERP Capabilities
Cloud ERP solutions offer flexibility, real-time data access, and easier collaboration across company locations. This is especially important for businesses managing trading and manufacturing operations in multiple regions.
3. Scalability and Growth Support
Choose software that can grow with your business. The right ERP system should support increasing transaction volumes, new product lines, or expansion into additional markets without requiring a complete system replacement.
4. Integration with Manufacturing and Trading Processes
Metal trading companies often work closely with manufacturing operations. Ensure the ERP software can seamlessly integrate trading, inventory, and production workflows for better efficiency and cost control.
5. Vendor Support and Training
A reliable ERP partner offers strong customer support and training resources, ensuring your team can fully leverage the software’s capabilities from day one.
Conclusion
Selecting the right ERP software for metal trading is critical for companies aiming to streamline operations, gain real-time visibility, and stay competitive in Malaysia’s fast-paced trading and manufacturing sector. The right solution simplifies complex processes like inventory, sales, and procurement and supports business growth with greater efficiency and accuracy.
Among the top choices, HashMicro stands out with its comprehensive cloud ERP system for trading and manufacturing companies. It provides a centralized platform that helps businesses reduce manual work, make informed decisions, and improve productivity.
To see how HashMicro can transform your business processes, you can request a free demo and explore its capabilities before investing.
FAQ Metal Trading
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How to become a metal trader?
Aspiring metal traders can benefit from pursuing relevant education in finance, economics, or commodity trading. Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions at trading firms, banks, or metal producers can provide valuable insights into the industry’s inner workings.
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Why do metal trading companies need this software?
The metal trading industry often deals with large transaction volumes, price volatility, and complex supply chains. This software helps automate processes, reduce manual errors, and improve operational efficiency.
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Does the software offer AI-powered features?
Some platforms, including those enhanced with Hashy AI, provide demand forecasting, automated workflows, and data-driven recommendations to boost productivity and profitability.