What to Expect During Choosing an ERP system for building material distribution

Choosing a new ERP system can feel overwhelming—especially in the building materials space, where every order, delivery, and margin matters. But knowing what to expect during the selection process can help you stay focused, confident, and in control.

Here’s a step-by-step look at what the ERP journey usually looks like for building material distributors:

🔍 1. Discovery Phase – Identifying the “Why”

Before reaching out to vendors, you’ll want to take stock of your current systems and workflows.

What to expect:

Internal meetings to define pain points (e.g., inventory errors, pricing inconsistencies, disconnected systems)

Conversations with sales, purchasing, inventory, and finance teams

Documentation of your goals and must-have features

Pro tip: Be specific—e.g., “We need real-time stock visibility across 4 warehouses.”

📋 2. Requirement Gathering – Building Your ERP Wishlist

Next, you’ll formalize your ERP needs.

What to expect:

A list of functional requirements (e.g., jobsite deliveries, complex pricing, customer credit management)

Prioritization of features (must-have vs. nice-to-have)

Input from key stakeholders

Pro tip: Consider both front-end user experience and back-end process automation.

🔎 3. Vendor Research – Narrowing the Field

Now it’s time to explore ERP vendors that specialize in your industry.

What to expect:

Researching ERP providers with experience in building materials

Attending webinars or watching demo videos

Reaching out for introductory calls

Pro tip: Shortlist vendors who understand distribution complexity, not just generic software sellers.

🎥 4. Product Demos – Seeing the System in Action

This is where it gets real. You’ll see how each ERP handles your business needs.

What to expect:

Live demos tailored to your workflows

Questions and scenario testing (e.g., handling split deliveries or contractor pricing)

Comparing interfaces and ease of use

Pro tip: Use a scorecard to fairly evaluate each vendor.

💬 5. Reference Checks & Site Visits

Before you commit, hear from businesses like yours.

What to expect:

Talking to existing ERP customers

Learning about their onboarding experience

Site visits (virtual or in-person)

Pro tip: Ask about support, downtime, and real ROI results.

📑 6. Proposal & Pricing Review

Get the full scope—software, services, support, and implementation.

What to expect:

Detailed proposals outlining features, timelines, and costs

Optional modules or integrations listed separately

Payment terms and support models

Pro tip: Watch for hidden costs like custom development or data migration.

🧩 7. Decision Time – Making the Call

Now, weigh the options and choose your partner.

What to expect:

Final presentations or Q&A sessions

Internal alignment from leadership

Contract review

Pro tip: Choose a vendor who feels like a partner, not just a provider.

Final Thought:

Selecting an ERP is more than a tech decision—it’s a strategic investment. For building material distributors, the right ERP brings visibility, control, and serious efficiency gains across the entire operation.