I can tell you of several for under 2k. That's for the program. More like a grand, single user. More if you have multiple locations you want to tie together.

You say tie into QB, but don't say how, for what reason.

Be more specific and I can do the same. Believe me, there are hand-held scanners available for under $ 500, depending on volume, you can print bar code labels from any computer - for under $ 20.00.

While I no longer do so, I sold this kind of stuff for about 10 years, and it is truly simple. Unknown makes it seem mysterious, but there is nothing to it. I've sold it to manufacturing plants to track work in progress, to the US Navy to track assets such as chairs, tables, computers, etc., to hospitals to track meds and blood samples, etc.

The operating software is "early DOS", actually predates that. The files are usually comma or tab delimited text. And all of the scanners come with basic programs to up or download data.

There are programs that will allow you to upload current count figures, do an on-screen and/or print Variance Report, go back and double check discrepancies and then do a final "Inventory Update" including unit and cost adjustments.

I can save you so much of that 9k you'll slip me a grand or two just for hooking you up.