Automated Storage Solutions with Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs)
Automated Storage Solutions with Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs)
Save up to 85% floor space. Improve accuracy to 99.9% with MILO™ software. Speed up goods-to-person retrieval for parts, tools, and supplies.
Trusted in manufacturing, MRO, healthcare, and defense facilities across the U.S.
Save up to 85% floor space. Improve accuracy to 99.9%. Speed up goods-to-person retrieval for parts, tools, and supplies.
Trusted in manufacturing, MRO, healthcare, and defense facilities across the U.S.
What is a VLM?
A Vertical Lift Module (VLM) is an automated storage system that stores items in high-density trays and delivers them to an ergonomic access opening. VLMs reclaim floor space, improve accuracy, and speed up picking by automatically finding and retrieving the correct tray.
How a VLM works
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An internal elevator automatically delivers trays to an ergonomic access point.
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Items are stored in high-density trays on both sides of the lift.
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The system finds and retrieves the correct tray at the push of a button.
- MILO™ software directs the pick, verifies the action, and updates inventory in real time.
See the Compact Twin in action
When a vertical lift module is the right next step
VLMs are typically the best fit when floor space is constrained, access frequency is high, and inventory needs to stay organized and controlled.
Software that keeps VLMs accurate
White Systems VLMs run on MILO™ software, providing real-time inventory visibility, controlled user access, and guided picking.
The result is consistent accuracy, accountability, and clean inventory data as operations scale.
Benefits
Save Space – Reclaim up to 85% of your floor space with high-density vertical storage.
Work Faster – Reduce search time and improve warehouse efficiency with automated tray delivery.
Improve Accuracy – Organized trays help your team pick the right parts consistently.
Ergonomics First – Reduce walking and bending with goods-to-person access.
Scale Easily – Adjust heights and trays as your operations grow.
How to improve warehouse inventory accuracy without hiring more people
Warehouses improve inventory accuracy by controlling how inventory is accessed, picked, and tracked. Vertical Lift Modules guide operators to the correct item and quantity, restrict unauthorized access, and automatically record every pick and replenishment, reducing errors caused by manual counting, searching, and inconsistent processes — without increasing headcount.
See a VLM installation in action
This time-lapse shows how unused ceiling height is converted into dense, organized storage — without expanding the building footprint.
What is a vertical lift module used for
Vertical Lift Modules are used to store and retrieve parts, tools, and inventory in high-density vertical space while delivering items directly to an operator. They are commonly used to reduce floor space consumption, improve picking accuracy, secure controlled inventory, and speed up access to frequently used materials in manufacturing, MRO, healthcare, and regulated environments.
How to maximize warehouse space
Warehouses maximize space by consolidating inventory vertically and replacing wide-aisle shelving with high-density storage. Vertical Lift Modules use unused ceiling height to store more inventory in a smaller footprint, often reclaiming up to 70–85% of floor space and freeing room for production, staging, or growth.
Where VLMs are a good fit
Vertical Lift Modules are commonly used when teams need to reclaim floor space, speed up access, or improve inventory organization and control.
Manufacturing & MRO
Parts, tools, and maintenance inventory stored near production for fast access and better use of vertical space.
Warehousing & Fulfillment
High-density storage for fast-moving and long-tail SKUs, improving pick accuracy in space-constrained operations.
General Storage & Inventory
Organized, secure storage for a wide range of materials where floor space is limited and access matters.
Our models
Compact Lift
Vertical Lift Module
The Compact Lift VLM has vertical storage optimization, customizable configurations, and a user-friendly interface. It offers increased storage capacity, reduced pick times, and enhanced inventory control.
Compact Twin
Vertical Lift Module
The Compact Twin VLM has dual access openings, high-speed operation, and robust construction. It offers faster retrieval times, improved workflow efficiency, and durable performance.
Compact Double
Vertical Lift Module
The Compact Double VLM is the densest storage with dual tray storage, advanced automation, and space-saving design. It offers maximized storage density, quick access to stored items, and efficient space utilization.
Compact Heavy Vertical Lift Module
The Compact Heavy VLM allows for the highest number of pounds per tray to be stored than any of our VLMs.
See how ABB transformed parts storage
“We have been able to eliminate over 500 storage bin locations. We’ve been able to use that space to maximize and optimize the production of our floor.”
“We have been able to eliminate over 500 storage bin locations. We’ve been able to use that space to maximize and optimize the production of our floor.”
— Warehouse Supervisor at ABB
Watch the ABB VLM in action
Features & comparisons
Find the right VLM for your operation
Our experts can recommend the right model, layout, and configuration for your space and inventory.
Our experts can recommend the right model, layout, and configuration for your space and inventory.