Vertical Lift Modules and Carousels

What it is

A vertical lift module (VLM) is an enclosed tower with two columns of trays and an extractor that travels between them. When an operator requests an item, the extractor retrieves the tray and presents it at an access window at a comfortable working height. The unit measures each tray and stores it in the smallest available slot, so mixed item sizes pack densely.

A vertical carousel rotates a series of fixed shelves around a vertical loop, much like a Ferris wheel. It stops the requested shelf at the window. A horizontal carousel rotates bins around an oval track at floor level and is often installed in pods so one operator picks from several units while the others rotate.

Where it fits

VLMs fit parts rooms, MRO and spare parts storage, tool cribs, electronics and medical supply, where item sizes vary and inventory needs to stay secure and counted. Vertical carousels suit consistent small items and fast access in a compact footprint. Horizontal carousels suit high pick rates of small items in buildings with lower ceilings. All three free floor space that static shelving occupies today.

Our role

We sell, install and service VLMs and carousels. Our team reviews your item data, pick rates and ceiling heights to recommend the right unit and quantity, coordinates power, data and floor requirements, then delivers, assembles and commissions the equipment. We also relocate units, add height or trays and add units as inventory grows.

Because our team also handles related equipment, this scope can be packaged with neighboring systems under one point of contact. We work nationwide from our headquarters in Sioux Falls, SD. We support owners, plant managers, engineers and general contractors from first layout through ongoing service.