Epicor Eclipse is one of the most established ERP systems built specifically for wholesale distributors in the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and PVF (pipes, valves, and fittings) industries. With over 45 years of distribution-specific development and more than 700 wholesale distribution customers worldwide, it occupies a unique niche: a system designed from the ground up for an industry that general-purpose ERPs often serve poorly.
Our assessment: Eclipse is a strong, feature-rich ERP for the exact industries it targets, with particular strengths in real-time inventory management, order entry speed, and contract pricing. But an aging codebase, inconsistent customer support, and opaque pricing keep it from being a no-brainer recommendation. If you are an electrical, plumbing, or HVAC distributor in North America, Eclipse belongs on your shortlist. If you operate outside those verticals, look elsewhere.
What Is Epicor Eclipse?
Epicor Eclipse is a purpose-built ERP system developed for wholesale distributors in the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and PVF sectors. It is a product of Epicor Software Corporation, a privately held company founded in 1972 and headquartered in Austin, Texas. Epicor claims over 250,000 cloud users on Eclipse and reports a 90% customer retention rate. The system has been built on more than 4,000 distributor implementations over several decades.
Eclipse covers the full business cycle for distributors: quoting, order entry, purchasing, receiving, inventory management, delivery logistics, invoicing, accounts receivable, accounts payable, financials, commissions, and reporting. Unlike horizontal ERP platforms that try to serve every industry, Eclipse was designed around the specific workflows, pricing structures, and supply chain demands of specialty distributors. Notable customers include Shepherd Electric Supply, Van Meter, and APR Supply Co.
Epicor Eclipse Key Features
Order Management
Eclipse’s order management module handles the complete quote-to-order cycle from a single screen. It supports counter sales, inside sales, outside sales, showroom sales, and web orders, all feeding into the same system instantly. PO suggestions are generated automatically, and the system integrates with EDI for electronic order processing. Single-keystroke sourcing during order entry is a standout capability that speeds up the sales process considerably.
The system processes mobile and web orders alongside traditional channels without requiring separate workflows, which is critical for distributors managing high volumes of mixed-channel orders daily.
Inventory Management and Forecasting
Inventory control is where Eclipse earns its strongest marks. The system covers forecasting through fulfillment, with demand forecasting tools, automatic replenishment triggers, advanced cycle counting, and product costing management. It supports both single-branch and multi-branch environments.
Inventory data updates in real time, which is a genuine differentiator. Eclipse does not depend on batch processing, day-end, month-end, or year-end cycles. Every transaction is processed and visible immediately, providing up-to-the-minute credit data and stock visibility.
Wireless Warehouse Management
The warehouse management system (WMS) runs on Android devices and supports receiving, put-away, picking, adjustments, cycle counting, and automatic replenishment. Handheld scanner support enables warehouse staff to verify and process tasks in real time, with data transmitted back to the core system instantly.
For distributors with large or multi-location warehouses, the WMS module reduces manual errors and speeds throughput. However, the WMS is not included in the base license for all configurations; confirm inclusion when getting your quote.
Real-Time Financial Management
Eclipse includes integrated accounting covering general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, financial reporting, and customer credit management. The real-time architecture means invoices do not need to be run in batches; auditing and credit decisions are based on current data at all times.
Financial statements can be generated in real time, and the system supports integrated credit card processing (through partners like Vantiv/Worldpay). For distributors accustomed to older systems where financial data lags by hours or days, this is a meaningful operational improvement.
Strategic Pricing and Profitability Tools
Eclipse offers a price matrix system, contract pricing, and a customer profitability analyzer. These tools let distributors maintain flexible pricing across accounts, projects, and jobs while scanning transactions for margin optimization opportunities. The system can identify less price-sensitive transactions where higher margins are achievable.
For distributors managing thousands of SKUs with customer-specific pricing agreements, this functionality is essential and more sophisticated than what most general-purpose ERPs provide out of the box.
CRM and Commercial Job Management
The built-in CRM tracks customer interactions, automates follow-ups, and provides data insights for sales teams. Commercial job management handles multi-phase projects typical in electrical and plumbing contracting, including job scheduling, tracking, and billing.
The job management module is well-suited to HVAC and electrical distributors who manage complex projects. However, one limitation noted is that the scheduling component can become a bottleneck for distributors outside these core verticals.
Eclipse API
Eclipse provides a full .NET Core REST API with endpoints for connecting Eclipse data to external systems. The API supports get, insert, and update activities with built-in data validation. This is important for distributors who need to connect Eclipse to eCommerce platforms, third-party logistics tools, or custom applications.
The API is well-documented and consistent, though some operations that should be straightforward still require custom code. Distributors with in-house development resources will get more value from the API than those without.
Epicor Data Analytics and Reporting
Epicor Data Analytics (EDA) provides interactive dashboards, “as of” reporting, and business intelligence capabilities. Report Studio, the newer reporting tool, incorporates AI-infused analytics for deeper insights into sales, inventory levels, and financial performance.
That said, reporting is one of Eclipse’s most frequently criticized areas. Creating custom reports is not straightforward, report outputs are often not user-friendly, and the built-in reporting tools lag behind what modern BI platforms offer. Many customers supplement Eclipse with third-party BI tools like Phocas for more flexible analysis.
Epicor Eclipse Pricing and Plans
Epicor does not publicly disclose Eclipse pricing. Prospective customers must contact Epicor directly for a customized quote. The pricing model is subscription-based with per-user licensing, and the total cost depends on several variables.
| Cost Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Per-user, subscription-based |
| Estimated Starting Price | Around $150/user/month (third-party estimates; confirm with Epicor) |
| Estimated Range | $120 to $200/user/month for core ERP functionalities |
| First-Year Investment (100 users) | $100,000 to $300,000 (includes implementation) |
| Minimum Users | 10 users |
| Ongoing Support Fees | Typically 20% of license cost annually (on-premise) |
| Free Version | No |
| Free Trial | No (demos available on request) |
Primary cost drivers include the number of users, modules selected, deployment method (cloud vs. on-premise), implementation complexity, customization requirements, and contract length. Volume discounts may be available for longer-term contracts.
Be aware that some modules are not included in the core package. EDI and document imaging, for example, are sold separately. Implementation services, training, and customization add to the total investment. For cloud deployments, infrastructure costs shift to monthly operating expenditure, which may simplify budgeting but does not necessarily reduce total cost of ownership.
Eclipse falls in the mid-range pricing category for distribution-focused ERP systems, but the lack of transparent pricing makes it difficult to compare directly against competitors without going through the quoting process.
Integrations
Eclipse connects with a range of third-party applications through its REST API and pre-built integrations. Known integrations include:
- Avalara for tax compliance and calculation
- Vantiv/Worldpay for integrated credit card processing
- Phocas for business intelligence and advanced analytics
- Elite EXTRA for delivery logistics and returns automation
- Innovo for delivery logistics
- KYKLO for product data connectivity (added in Release 2025.2)
- Epicor IP&O for inventory planning and optimization
- Epicor EDI IX for electronic data interchange
- Epicor Commerce (EC) for cloud-based eCommerce
The Eclipse API uses .NET Core REST endpoints supporting get, insert, and update operations with data validation. This allows developers to build custom connections to external systems, though the effort required depends on the complexity of the integration.
One area where Eclipse shows its age is in the breadth of its integration ecosystem. Compared to more modern cloud-native ERPs that offer hundreds of pre-built connectors or marketplace integrations, Eclipse’s out-of-the-box integration options are more limited. Distributors with complex integration needs beyond the listed partners should budget for custom development work. Zapier or similar middleware support is not documented in any source material we reviewed.
Customer Support
Epicor offers multiple support channels for Eclipse customers, including phone, email, live chat, and a ticketing system. A knowledge base, community forums, FAQ resources, video tutorials, and webinars are available for self-service learning. Epicor also offers onboarding and implementation assistance, and the Eclipse Cloud product includes an embedded learning guide.
In-person and live online training options are available, which is helpful given Eclipse’s complexity during initial deployment. Epicor hosts an annual Insights conference (Insights 2026 is scheduled for May 2026) with dedicated Eclipse sessions for customers.
However, customer support quality is one of the most divisive aspects of Eclipse. The shift of Tier 1 support to overseas teams has been a persistent source of frustration. Response times and issue resolution quality appear inconsistent. Some customers report “absolutely no support” while others find the dedicated teams responsive and receptive to feedback. System modifications and configuration changes reportedly have long lead times, which can be a significant operational issue when urgent changes are needed.
Pros and Cons
Based on our analysis of Eclipse’s capabilities, market position, and the real-world experience of its customer base, here is where the product stands.
Pros
- Purpose-built for electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and PVF distribution with 45+ years of domain-specific development
- Real-time transaction processing eliminates batch dependencies for inventory, financials, and credit decisions
- Fast order entry with single-keystroke sourcing and multi-channel support (counter, EDI, web, mobile)
- Sophisticated pricing engine with contract pricing, price matrix, and customer profitability analysis
- Scales from 10-user operations to thousands of users on a single installation
- Full REST API available for custom integrations with external systems
- Active development with recent 2025 releases adding logistics, product data, and inventory optimization features
Cons
- Interface feels outdated and many processes require too many steps or keystrokes
- Reporting capabilities are limited and custom report creation is not straightforward
- Customer support quality has declined, with Tier 1 support outsourced overseas and long lead times for system modifications
- Pricing is completely opaque, with no public pricing and add-on modules (EDI, document imaging) sold separately
- Narrowly focused on HVAC/electrical/plumbing verticals; poor fit for other distribution industries
- Receives less development investment compared to other Epicor ERP products
- Integration ecosystem is limited compared to cloud-native ERP platforms; custom development often required
Who Should Use Epicor Eclipse?
Ideal fit: Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and PVF distributors with 10 to several thousand employees who need an ERP system purpose-built for their industry. Eclipse is strongest for companies running single or multi-branch distribution operations in North America with complex pricing structures, high SKU counts, and a need for real-time inventory visibility.
Company size: Eclipse scales from small distributors (minimum 10 users) to large enterprises with thousands of users on a single installation. Mid-size distributors with 50 to 500 employees in the target verticals are the sweet spot.
Best use cases: High-volume order entry across multiple channels (counter, inside sales, web, EDI), complex contract and matrix pricing management, multi-branch inventory optimization, and commercial job management for HVAC and electrical projects.
Who should NOT use Eclipse: Distributors outside the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and PVF industries will find that many of Eclipse’s workflows and scheduling components are too narrowly focused. As one experienced user put it bluntly: if you are not in HVAC or electrical and you are using Eclipse, you have the wrong software. Companies needing a highly modern, cloud-native UI with extensive out-of-the-box integrations may also find Eclipse frustrating. And organizations without budget for implementation services and training should consider lighter-weight alternatives.
Epicor Eclipse Alternatives
Infor CloudSuite Distribution
Infor CloudSuite Distribution offers a broader multi-industry approach with a more modern cloud-native architecture and stronger built-in analytics powered by Infor’s Birst platform. It lacks Eclipse’s depth of distribution-specific workflows for electrical and plumbing verticals, but it is a better fit for distributors serving multiple industries or those prioritizing a modern user experience. Choose Infor if your distribution business spans beyond HVAC/electrical or if modern UI and cloud-native architecture are priorities.
Epicor Prophet 21
Prophet 21 is another Epicor distribution ERP, but it targets a broader range of distribution verticals including industrial, safety, and janitorial supply. It shares Epicor’s distribution DNA but is not as narrowly specialized as Eclipse. If you are a general-line distributor or operate across multiple distribution categories, Prophet 21 may offer more flexibility. Eclipse is the better choice for pure electrical, plumbing, and HVAC operations.
NetSuite ERP
Oracle NetSuite offers a true cloud-native ERP with a massive integration ecosystem, modern interface, and strong financial management. It handles distribution but is not purpose-built for electrical or HVAC verticals. NetSuite is the better choice for distributors who need a broadly capable cloud ERP with extensive third-party integrations. Eclipse wins on distribution-specific depth, pricing tools, and industry workflows.
Distribution One ERP-ONE
ERP-ONE from Distribution One is a mid-market distribution ERP that competes directly with Eclipse at a potentially lower price point. It covers similar ground (inventory, purchasing, sales, warehouse management) but with a smaller customer base and less industry specialization. Consider ERP-ONE if budget is a primary concern and you need solid distribution functionality without Eclipse’s premium pricing.
SAP Business One
SAP Business One is a well-known SMB ERP with global reach and strong financials. It lacks the distribution-specific features that Eclipse provides (matrix pricing, distribution work queues, HVAC job management), but offers superior international capabilities and name-brand ecosystem support. Choose SAP Business One if you need a globally recognized ERP with multi-country, multi-currency support and can customize it for distribution workflows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What industries is Epicor Eclipse designed for?
Epicor Eclipse is purpose-built for wholesale distributors in four specific industries: electrical, plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and PVF (pipes, valves, and fittings). While it can technically be used by other types of distributors, its workflows, pricing tools, and job management features are specifically designed for these verticals. Distributors outside these industries will likely find better-fitting alternatives.
How much does Epicor Eclipse cost?
Epicor does not publicly disclose Eclipse pricing. The system uses a per-user, subscription-based licensing model. Third-party estimates suggest starting prices around $150 per user per month, with total first-year costs for a 100-user deployment ranging from $100,000 to $300,000 including implementation. Contact Epicor directly for a customized quote based on your user count, module requirements, and deployment preferences.
Is Epicor Eclipse available in the cloud?
Yes. Epicor offers Eclipse as a SaaS private cloud solution powered by Microsoft Azure. Cloud deployment provides continuous updates, an embedded learning guide, and shifts infrastructure costs from capital expenditure to monthly operating expenditure. On-premise deployment is also available for organizations that prefer to manage their own infrastructure.
Does Epicor Eclipse have an API?
Yes. Eclipse includes a full .NET Core REST API with endpoints for reading, inserting, and updating data. The API supports data validation and enables integration with eCommerce platforms, logistics tools, and custom business applications. Developers can use the API to extend Eclipse’s functionality to external systems.
What are the biggest limitations of Epicor Eclipse?
The most commonly cited limitations are: reporting capabilities that are limited and difficult to customize, an interface that can feel outdated compared to modern cloud-native ERPs, customer support quality that has declined following the outsourcing of Tier 1 support, and a narrow industry focus that makes it a poor fit for non-HVAC/electrical distributors. Some modules like EDI and document imaging also require separate purchases.
Does Epicor Eclipse offer a free trial?
No. Epicor does not offer a free trial of Eclipse. However, product demos are available upon request. Prospective buyers can contact Epicor or work through authorized partners to schedule a demonstration of the system’s capabilities for their specific use case.
How does Epicor Eclipse handle multi-branch operations?
Eclipse supports both single-branch and multi-branch distribution environments from a single installation. Inventory management, purchasing, and order processing can be managed across multiple locations with real-time visibility. The system scales from small operations to enterprises with thousands of users, making it suitable for growing distributors adding new branches.
The Bottom Line
Epicor Eclipse is a deeply specialized ERP that does one thing very well: running distribution operations for electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and PVF businesses. Its real-time transaction processing, sophisticated pricing tools, and 45-plus years of domain-specific development give it a functional depth that general-purpose ERPs simply cannot match in these verticals. If your business fits its target market, Eclipse delivers genuine operational advantages in inventory control, order management, and margin optimization.
The caveats are real, though. The interface shows its age, reporting is a known weak spot, and customer support quality has become unreliable. The lack of transparent pricing makes it harder to evaluate against competitors, and the total cost of ownership (including implementation, training, and add-on modules) can be substantial. Eclipse also receives less development investment than some other Epicor products, which raises questions about the pace of future innovation.
We rate Epicor Eclipse a 3.8 out of 5. For electrical, plumbing, and HVAC distributors in North America with 10 to several thousand employees, it is one of the strongest industry-specific options available and should be on every shortlist. For distributors outside those verticals, or for organizations that prioritize a modern user experience and broad integration ecosystem, alternatives like Infor CloudSuite Distribution, NetSuite, or even Epicor’s own Prophet 21 will likely be better fits.
