Automated Storage & Retrieval (AS/RS)
Automated Storage & Retrieval (AS/RS) Systems
Automated pallet handling for facilities where speed, accuracy, and density all matter. Machines . Your team focuses on value-added work.
Up to 100'
Full-height vertical storage
300+ Pallets/Hr
Automated cycle times
99.9% Accuracy
Automated inventory tracking
An automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) is a computer-controlled warehouse storage solution that automatically places and retrieves pallets or cases from high-density racking using cranes, shuttles, or robotic vehicles. AS/RS systems are used in facilities requiring high throughput, reduced labor, and maximized vertical storage.
The Right Application
When Manual Systems Are the Bottleneck
Throughput-Constrained Operations
When your order volume exceeds what a manual pick operation can handle in the available hours, and adding labor and space isn't , automated retrieval changes the equation. Machine cycle times aren't bound by travel distance or picker fatigue.
High-Value Inventory Security
Vertical lift modules and carousel systems store inventory inside enclosed units with controlled access, a significant security advantage for high-value, regulated, or controlled substance inventory that requires audit-traceable access records.
Vertical Cube Utilization
AS/RS systems store product to building height, using vertical space that standard rack and manual picking can't practically reach. In high-bay facilities, that cube represents a significant number of additional storage positions.
Technical Specifications
Key Specs & Configuration
| System Height | 40'–100'+ |
| Aisle Width | As narrow as 5' for crane-based systems |
| Throughput | 20–60+ pallet moves per hour per aisle |
| System Types | Unit-load cranes, pallet shuttles, robotic systems, VLMs, carousels |
| WMS Integration | WMS connectivity, conveyor systems, dock door automation |
| Best For | High-volume distribution, cold storage, 24/7 operations, labor-constrained facilities |
| Typical Timeline | 12–24 months from concept to operation |
| Code Notes | Tall structures require significant structural engineering; fire protection for high-bay automated storage is highly , requires early fire marshal coordination |
Brands We Carry
Built With Industry-Leading Components
How It Works
General Contractor and Integration Partner: Not Just Rack
Automated storage and retrieval comes in : vertical lift modules (VLMs), horizontal and vertical carousels, and unit-load or mini-load cranes for pallet and tote storage. System selection depends on your throughput requirements, inventory unit size and weight, and the degree of WMS integration your operation supports.
We serve as general contractor and , coordinating between automation vendors, racking manufacturers, fire protection engineers, and building departments. Our role ensures the physical structure, permitting, and installation support your automation investment rather than creating delays or compliance gaps.
Tall AS/RS structures require significant structural engineering . Fire protection for high-bay automated storage is highly specialized. We manage all of this from day one, not after the equipment is ordered.
What You Get
Built In, Not Bolted On
Machine-Driven Retrieval
Vertical and horizontal machine movement retrieves stored units without , consistent cycle times regardless of inventory depth.
WMS Integration
System integrates with your warehouse management system for location tracking, pick sequencing, and . Every transaction documented automatically.
Full Project Coordination
Equipment selection, structural engineering, electrical design, controls integration, and permitting handled by one team, not a multi-vendor hand-off.
Best Suited For
Common Applications and Industries
Medical & Pharma
Controlled-access, audit-traceable storage for high-value and regulated inventory.
Warehouse Distribution
Throughput-constrained operations where manual pick speed is the limiting factor.
Third-Party Logistics
High-accuracy, high-throughput fulfillment for clients with demanding SLAs.
Retail Distribution
High-velocity case picking operations with strict daily throughput requirements.
Related Services
We Handle Design, Installation & Permitting
Hammerhead Warehouse Systems has been an incredible partner over the years. Their team is highly professional, knowledgeable, and reliable. They consistently deliver top-quality solutions tailored to any needs and go above and beyond to ensure projects are completed on time and meet the highest standards.
Miguel Suarez
Google Review
Other Systems to Consider
Related Storage Systems
Pick Modules
Multi-level manual pick systems for operations not yet ready for full automation.
Learn More →
Carton Flow Racks
High-efficiency manual pick faces that complement automated reserve systems.
Learn More →
Mobile Pallet Racking
High-density manual storage with full direct access, lower capital cost than automated systems.
Learn More →FAQ
Common Questions
When does AS/RS make financial sense?
AS/RS investments are typically justified by a combination of labor reduction, real estate efficiency, and throughput requirements that manual systems can't meet. Cold storage AS/RS often has the . Every square foot of conditioned space eliminated has a direct operating cost benefit. High-volume 24/7 operations where labor availability is constrained are the other primary justification. We can help you model the case before committing to the project.
How long does an AS/RS project take?
AS/RS projects typically run 12–24 months from concept through operational commissioning. The timeline includes design, equipment manufacturing, permitting (complex for tall structures), civil and structural work, equipment installation, and controls integration. Early coordination with your fire marshal and building department is critical. We initiate those conversations at the start of design, not after equipment is ordered.
Do you work with specific automation manufacturers?
We work with leading automation vendors and approach system selection based on your specific throughput requirements, product profile, and budget, not a single preferred manufacturer relationship. Our value is in coordinating the full project: physical structure, permitting, and installation support for whichever automation technology best fits your operation.
Exploring Automation for Your Warehouse?
Let us help you evaluate whether AS/RS fits your operation. From initial assessment through commissioning. Free consultation, no obligation.
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