Integrate n8n with Odoo ERP for business automation

Looking to streamline your operations with smarter automation? Combining the power of Odoo ERP with n8n, the powerful open-source workflow automation tool, can radically improve how your business connects departments and systems. With this n8n Odoo integration, you can sync sales, inventory, CRM, finances, and marketing processes across platforms—without writing a single line of code.

Whether you're managing a small business using Odoo's all-in-one suite or scaling a mid-sized enterprise, integrating n8n helps you eliminate manual tasks, reduce errors, and boost productivity.

Why Integrate Odoo with n8n?

Odoo is a flexible open-source ERP that supports modules for CRM, eCommerce, inventory, billing, accounting, manufacturing, and more. However, when it comes to connecting Odoo with external systems—like Gmail, Slack, Google Sheets, or marketing platforms—you often need custom code or premium connectors.

This is where n8n shines. With n8n, you can create custom automation workflows using a drag-and-drop interface, enabling rich connectivity without having to rely on developers.

Benefits of n8n Odoo integration:

• Automate complex business workflows without writing code
• Connect Odoo with 300+ services like Stripe, Trello, and Google Workspace
• Trigger actions in real-time, such as sending a follow-up Slack message when a new sales order is confirmed
• Manage data pipelines between Odoo and BI tools for reporting and dashboards
• Self-host or run n8n in the cloud, giving you full control over your automation stack

Getting Started: Prerequisites

To begin the n8n Odoo integration process, make sure you have the following:

• Admin access to your Odoo instance (self-hosted or Odoo Online)
• Installed or configured n8n instance (see how to self-host it, or run n8n locally)
• Odoo API credentials (your database URL, client ID, and client secret if using OAuth)
• Some familiarity with Odoo’s data models (optional but helpful)

Step-by-Step: How to Connect Odoo with n8n

n8n doesn’t offer a native Odoo node out of the box, but you can interact with Odoo’s REST or XML-RPC API using standard HTTP Request or Function nodes. Here’s how to set it up:

Step 1: Generate or obtain your Odoo API access

For Odoo Online users:

1. Go to your Odoo developer settings.
2. Enable developer mode.
3. Get your database name (yourcompany.odoo.com)
4. Generate API key or use OAuth credentials

For self-hosted Odoo:

• You can use XML-RPC or REST endpoints.
• Typical API endpoint: https://yourdomain.com/xmlrpc/2/object

Step 2: Create a basic workflow in n8n

1. Open your n8n editor

2. Start a new workflow with a Trigger Node, such as:

   • Schedule Trigger to run the workflow hourly
   • Webhook Trigger to wait for external apps
   • HTTP Request to fetch from external sources

3. Add the HTTP Request Node:

   • Set method to POST
   • URL: your Odoo XML-RPC endpoint
   • Headers: Content-Type: application/json
   • Body: JSON-RPC payload for your query

Here’s an example body to fetch customer data:

{
  "jsonrpc": "2.0",
  "method": "call",
  "params": {
    "service": "object",
    "method": "execute_kw",
    "args": [
      "your_database_name",
      2,
      "your_api_key",
      "res.partner",
      "search_read",
      [],
      {"fields": ["name", "email"]}
    ]
  },
  "id": null
}

Replace "your_api_key" and other params with your actual values.

4. Process the data with a Set or Function Node
5. Connect to your third-party tool, like Google Sheets, via a new node

Example Workflow Use Case: Sync Contacts from Odoo to Google Sheets

Let’s say you want to sync all customer contacts from Odoo to Google Sheets nightly:

1. Trigger: Schedule node for once a day
2. Data Fetch: HTTP Request to Odoo’s XML-RPC API fetching "res.partner"
3. Data Transform: Function node to format contact fields
4. Sync Destination: Google Sheets node inserts records row-by-row

Tip: Use Google Sheets integration with n8n to authenticate and update sheets easily.

You’ve now automated what would have been a daily export-import chore.

Pro Tips for a Smooth n8n Odoo Integration

1. Understand Odoo Models

Odoo uses object-relational mapping (ORM). Every part of the system—customers, invoices, sales—is a model. Use tools like Odoo's API Explorer or enable "Developer Mode" to inspect model names and fields.

2. Handle Authentication Securely

If you store API keys in n8n, make sure to use environment variables or encrypted credentials. This keeps your sensitive information secure during automation.

3. Use Error Handling Nodes

Include Try/Catch nodes or conditional checks to verify:

• Data exists
• Credentials work
• Network issues are handled gracefully

Check out this guide on mastering error handling in n8n to build more robust workflows.

Sample Applications Across Departments

Here's a table of automation ideas for different departments using the n8n Odoo integration:

Alternatives to Native Integration

While you can build from scratch using HTTP Request nodes, some power users also:

• Use custom n8n templates with pre-configured Odoo workflows
• Install community packages via the CLI to extend n8n's Odoo support

Or even consider building your own custom Odoo Node using n8n’s helper SDK if your automations grow in complexity.

Also, if you're deciding between automation platforms, check this Zapier vs n8n comparison before you invest in a commercial solution.

FAQ

What is the best way to authenticate with Odoo in n8n?

You can authenticate using either API keys (for Odoo Online) or XML-RPC login sequences (for self-hosted). For enhanced security, use environment variables to store credentials in n8n.

Can n8n update records in Odoo?

Yes. Just use the appropriate API method like write via XML-RPC or REST, passing in the correct model name, record ID, and field updates.

Is there a native Odoo node in n8n?

As of now, there is no official Odoo node. However, using HTTP Request nodes or creating a custom node gives you full access to Odoo’s functionality.

What kind of data can I sync between Odoo and external apps?

Any model from Odoo like orders, invoices, contacts, inventory, employees, and tasks can be accessed and synced. Ensure the correct access rights and API access.

Is the integration suitable for large datasets?

Yes, but it’s recommended to paginate responses and use batch processing with Delay or Wait nodes to handle performance and API limits effectively.

By using n8n for your Odoo automation, you give your company a flexible, cost-effective solution that's 100% under your control. It’s time to spend less time on admin and more time on growth.