Hi @aliasmith
Yes, this would depend on your supplier and how they provide the inventory data to you.
If your supplier has a Shopify app or API that can sync the inventory and order fulfillment automatically, that’s always a good choice to go for. However, if not, apps such as Stock Sync (to update inventory via CSV, FTP, or Google Sheets) or DSers (for AliExpress) are commonly used.
I would suggest looking into what integration options your supplier offers (API, CSV, FTP, or EDI).
Hey @aliasmith, honestly I’d settle how each supplier is modelled in Shopify before picking an app. Give every wholesaler and dropship supplier its own location under Settings > Locations, so stock is tracked separately per supplier and orders route to the right one. Dropshipping apps and 3PLs register as locations too, so a mixed setup stays consistent. Then choose the sync tool around what the supplier can actually emit: a live API keeps quantities close to real time, while a supplier who only drops a file a couple of times a day needs a buffer on fast movers, since Shopify shows the last synced number until the next drop. Confirm it on the Inventory page, where each SKU should show its quantity under the right location.
Hi @aliasmith
For most outlets, the most effective approach is determined by the way in which your vendor provides data. If they do CSV files then you can have scheduled imports which will update your inventory. If they have an API, a custom integration generally results in more reliable stock syncing and automatic order fulfillment. Test your inventory updates, what happens if you oversell, and order routng with a limited number of products before you go live to be sure everything stays accurate as you grow your catalog.