Tradify vs Fergus vs AroFlo 2026 Comparison

Choosing job management software isn’t about ticking boxes – it’s about reducing admin, getting more jobs over the line, and making sure you get paid faster. For UK tradespeople, the comparison of Tradify vs Fergus vs AroFlo isn’t just about features, but about how much easier life on the tools really gets. Here’s a practical rundown for busy trades and construction businesses in 2026.

Overview: Tradify vs Fergus vs AroFlo

Which job management system fits UK trade businesses?

Tradify, Fergus, and AroFlo all promise smoother admin, better job tracking, and faster quoting. But which one genuinely delivers for small-to-medium UK trade teams? Let’s compare the essentials: setup time, feature set, price transparency, support, and how each solution tackles the pain points of UK construction and maintenance firms.

Ease of Setup and Onboarding

Getting started without headaches

You don’t want to waste evenings wrestling with software. Tradify is built for quick onboarding – many users can quote, schedule, and invoice jobs within hours. Fergus and AroFlo offer in-depth setups, but tradespeople often find the learning curve steeper, and team buy-in harder. Fast setup means less downtime and fewer excuses from site to office.

Pick a solution with clear training, local support, and demo options.
Check if one-to-one onboarding or UK-based help is included from day one.

For practical advice, see What Is Tradify? The Complete 2026 Guide for Tradies Choosing Job-Management Software for a step-by-step walkthrough of setup and first jobs.

Quoting Tools: Speed, Accuracy, and Winning More Work

Quote fast and look professional

Standing out on price isn’t enough — you need to get quotes out fast, with zero mistakes. Tradify offers custom templates, plant and materials catalogues (even for repeat jobs), and automated quote follow-ups. Fergus and AroFlo provide powerful quoting, though some UK users report slower workflows and more setup for templates.

Customise materials/pricing lists based on trade.
Automate reminders to chase open quotes.
Let customers accept online – no more waiting for a reply.

Scheduling and Dealing with Job Changes

Scheduling jobs, variations, and last-minute calls

Missed appointments mean wasted income. Tradify’s real-time calendar shows every job, team member, and shift. Drag-and-drop lets you rearrange for weather delays or urgent call-outs. Fergus and AroFlo provide solid schedulers, but feedback suggests Tradify is less ‘fiddly’ on mobile — ideal for engineers moving between sites.

On-the-tools tip: Always add notes for variations and site changes. This helps stop disputes down the line, especially when the weather messes up your schedule.

Job Tracking and Team Communication

Nothing lost in translation from site to office

If jobs get lost in the system, you lose money. Tradify lets you track active jobs, staff locations, and progress updates. Photos, notes, and materials are recorded against each job, reducing paperwork and keeping teams informed. Fergus and AroFlo both offer strong tracking, but Tradify’s mobile-first design helps on teams with a mix of ages and tech confidence.

Invoicing and Chasing Payments

How much does each system speed up cash flow?

Getting invoices out quickly makes all the difference, especially with VAT and CIS requirements. Tradify automatically generates invoices from completed jobs, links with Xero, QuickBooks, and MYOB, and allows for online payments through Stripe. Automated reminders mean less time on the phone chasing up outstanding invoices. Fergus and AroFlo have similar features but may require more manual steps or integrations.

On-the-tools tip: Set up overdue invoice reminders from day one. It’s easy money that otherwise slips away — and makes VAT period end far less stressful.

Integration with Accounting and Compliance Tools

VAT, CIS, and staying compliant with HMRC

For UK trades, syncing to accounting software isn’t optional – it keeps you on the right side of the law and helps avoid making mistakes when it’s time to pay VAT or submit for CIS. Tradify integrates with the UK’s big three: Xero, QuickBooks, and MYOB. Transaction data syncs directly, reducing double entry. Fergus and AroFlo also integrate, but check for hidden setup steps and ongoing support.

Materials and Supplier Management

Managing parts and pricing – even with price changes

If your supplier changes prices, you need to update quotes and invoices fast. Tradify offers materials catalogues, bulk editing, and custom pricing per job or customer. This is handy for both public and private work, where price transparency stops disputes. Fergus provides inventory tools, while AroFlo suits larger firms needing purchasing controls, but some find Tradify simpler for one-person or small teams.

Mobile Use: Office and Onsite Workflow

Running your business from phone or tablet

Whether you’re in the cab or up on a roof, mobile access matters. Tradify’s iOS and Android apps are streamlined for UK users — you can schedule, quote, photograph job progress, and invoice from anywhere. Fergus and AroFlo’s apps are powerful but may take longer to learn.

For real-time job status, fewer missed details, and faster paperwork, mobile usability is key.

Custom Forms, Certificates, and Safety Docs

Domestic and site compliance made easy

From electrical certificates to on-site RAMS or health forms, all three platforms support digital forms. Tradify allows custom certificate templates – important for NICEIC, Gas Safe, and site compliance. All forms can be tracked, signed, and safely stored. If insurance or regulations require proof, digital copies save hours hunting through paperwork.

Customer Communication and Reducing No-shows

Keep customers in the loop

Automated SMS and email reminders cut down on missed appointments. Tradify’s messaging tools help ensure customers know when you’re arriving and confirm jobs easily. Fergus and AroFlo offer reminders, too, but Tradify focuses strongly on reducing no-shows for small residential jobs and site-based teams. Fewer no-shows mean more reliable cash flow.

Team Management and Timesheets

Track hours, improve job margins

Accurate timesheets ensure you don’t lose margin on hidden labour. Tradify has a live job timer, manual timesheet entry, and timesheet reporting. This helps compare expected vs actual hours, spot unbilled time, or adjust pricing on future jobs. Fergus and AroFlo have advanced timesheet and productivity tools, more suited for businesses with larger field crews or office admin teams.

Encourage team to track time as they go, not at week’s end.
Review timesheets weekly to spot issues before payroll.

Implementing this is straightforward – check How to Get Your Team Using Tradify in 2026 Without Pushback for simple adoption strategies.

Pricing, Contracts, and Hidden Fees

Understand what you pay for

Tradify is pay-as-you-go, per user, per month, with no contract lock-in and transparent costs. Some features like SMS and instant websites are extra. Fergus and AroFlo may have per-user/month fees, additional modules, set-up charges, or require upfront training payments. For cost-sensitive trades, clear pricing means fewer surprises.

Support: Local Help When You Need It

Getting answers without a runaround

When you’re stuck or need a feature explained, local support is a lifesaver. Tradify offers UK-based support and one-to-one onboarding with real people. Fergus and AroFlo support is accessible, but check response times and if phone assistance is included for your plan. Good support saves hours and helps you set up custom workflows specific to your trade.

Who Should Choose Each Platform?

Trade-specific strengths and recommendations

Any of these three can run a UK trade business, but their strengths differ:

Tradify: Best for small-to-medium UK trades looking for fast ROI, minimal setup, and all the essentials from quote to invoice to compliance.
Fergus: Solid option for companies managing repeat jobs, bigger teams, and project management with detailed costing.
AroFlo: Suited for larger operations with in-house admin, advanced compliance, and higher customisation needs.

For further reading, How Tradify Users Save 10+ Hours a Week in 2026 shares stats from real users who made the switch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is easiest to set up – Tradify, Fergus, or AroFlo?

Tradify is widely regarded as the fastest to set up. Most UK trades can get quoting and invoicing the same day, without much training. Fergus and AroFlo have more advanced features but often need time for setup and extra training, especially for larger teams or complex workflows.

Can these platforms help with VAT and CIS compliance?

Yes, all three support UK VAT and CIS workflows. Tradify, Fergus, and AroFlo can sync with Xero and QuickBooks, help track VAT, and let you create CIS-friendly reports. Always check HMRC requirements for changes, as some integration features may require manual setup.

How do these systems help cut down admin time?

They speed up quoting, scheduling, job tracking, and invoicing. Tradify is particularly designed to reduce repeat data entry and automate reminders – some users report saving up to 10 hours per week. Digital timesheets and mobile job notes further cut back on paperwork.

What about pricing – are there hidden fees?

Tradify uses a simple per-user/month fee with no contracts and upfront transparency. Fergus and AroFlo may have modular pricing or additional costs for some features, so it’s important to check your plan for potential extras like onboarding, SMS credits, or advanced modules.

Do these apps integrate with my accounting system?

All three connect to major UK accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, and MYOB. This means automatic syncing of invoices, payments, and contacts, which helps you stay on top of cash flow and regulatory reporting.

Can I send quotes and invoices from my phone?

Yes, Tradify, Fergus, and AroFlo all have mobile apps that let you quote, invoice, schedule jobs, and track progress while you’re out and about. Tradify is often praised by UK trades for usability on the go, thanks to its simple interface and reliable offline access.

What type of support can I expect as a UK trade business?

Tradify provides UK-based phone and chat support, with options for one-to-one training during setup. Fergus and AroFlo also support UK customers, but review your support plan to confirm hours and preferred contact channels. Speedy local help can save a lot of stress.

Is it possible to manage multiple trades or subcontractors?

Yes, all three platforms allow you to add subcontractors, set permissions, and allocate jobs by trade. Tradify makes it easy for small businesses with flexible scheduling and contact records, while AroFlo and Fergus offer more advanced project management for larger operations.

How do I avoid disputes or mistakes with job changes?

Record every job variation and add before/after photos via the app. Automated change logs, clear timelines, and site notes mean you always have evidence for clients or insurers. Tradify, Fergus, and AroFlo all support this – it’s about team habit and process, not just software.

What if my team is not tech-savvy?

Start with an easy-to-use app and provide short, practical training. Tradify is aimed at non-technical users, with a simple mobile interface and minimal jargon. You can roll it out gradually and get help from UK-based trainers to handle pushback or confidence issues among your team.

Tradify vs Fergus vs AroFlo: 2026 Job-Management Showdown