Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RSs)
AS/RS
Store more inventory. Use less space.
Space is a highly valuable resource for warehouse operations. As inventory grows, adding onto a facility is either too expensive or simply not possible. Dematic Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RSs) unlock capacity by using vertical space to store more inventory within existing floor space.
Dematic AS/RSs provide flexibility, scalability, and real-time inventory visibility to meet shifting demand for a variety of applications — long-term storage, buffer storage, goods-to-person order fulfillment, high-volume inventory management, and more. They reduce costs and deliver reliable performance for many industries, especially durable goods manufacturing, food and beverage, grocery, and retail.
Typical applications and uses of Warehouse Storage
AS/RSs are incredibly versatile, offering a wide range of applications across various industries:
Long-Term Storage
Goods-to-Person Order Picking
They enhance picking efficiency by automatically bringing items to operators, reducing travel time and errors.
Staging Orders
AS/RSs organize and create a buffer for orders in preparation for processing or shipping, ensuring quick and accurate dispatch.
Buffer Storage
AS/RSs provide temporary storage for inventory not currently needed for order processing.
Inventory Management
AS/RSs offer real-time tracking and management of inventory, ensuring optimal stock levels and reducing stockouts or overstock situations.
Flexible storage and retrieval for evolving operations
Dematic storage and retrieval solutions are modular by design, so systems can be tailored to your operational needs. As volumes, SKUs, and throughput change, your solution scales with you — without disruption.
Expand storage capacity
Add up to 4x storage capacity to existing building floor space while improving inventory management.
Ensure high uptime
Dematic AS/RSs are resilient, operating 24/7/365 to store and retrieve goods in chilled, freezer, or ambient temperature facilities.
Increase flexibility for peaks and seasonality
Respond confidently to surges and shifts in demand, keeping your business agile.
Improve inventory accuracy
Automated workflows and Dematic’s real-time analytics ensure the right product, in the right place, at the right time.
Scale as you grow
Add capacity as demand changes while maintaining reliable performance.
Protect your inventory
Secure stock at every stage with real-time tracking and automated workflows that preserve product integrity and service levels.
Storage and retrieval solutions we offer
Dematic systems range from manual static shelving and racking to fully automated technologies that organize stock, provide quick access, optimize space, and reduce reliance on labor. Switching to an automated warehouse storage system from a forklift or fully manual system can vastly improve product handling efficiency and provide a safer operation. From large volumes of fast-moving product to slower movers with lots of inventory, Dematic provides these options:
Types of Storage and Retrieval Systems
Pallet Handling
Unit-load AS/RSs
Unit-load AS/RSs are fully automated storage and retrieval systems designed to handle heavy loads and bulky items, typically stored on pallets. They provide high-density storage and are ideal for operations that require handling large loads.
Unit-load AS/RSs use high-density racking and storage and retrieval machines (SRMs) to efficiently move loads in and out of the racking. These systems are also known as high bay warehouses or pallet crane systems because they maximize vertical space to significantly increase storage capacity.
Benefits of Dematic Unit-Load AS/RSs
- Increase storage density: Dematic unit-load AS/RSs rapidly move loads of up to 1,800 kilograms in and out of a secured rack structure that can be up to 45 meters tall. With single- and double-deep, storage options, these systems offer outstanding space utilization in ambient, chilled, or freezer environments.
- Boost throughput: With different options for moving single or multiple loads in a single cycle, Dematic unit-load AS/RSs can achieve throughput rates as high as 60 loads in/out per hour. Dematic Software and controls allow these systems to operate unattended around the clock.
- Increase efficiency, accuracy, reliability: Dematic unit-load AS/RSs operate in an efficient “lights-out” environment. They are designed for mission critical applications, simple maintenance, and maximum uptime. The latest controls technology ensures high efficiency and accuracy.
- Enhance performance visibility: Dematic unit-load AS/RSs make informed decisions with real-time visibility of inventory and performance metrics.
Types of Storage and Retrieval Systems
Carton/Tote Handling
Miniload AS/RSs
Dematic provides a comprehensive portfolio of Miniload AS/RSs to handle the most challenging storage needs.
Ideal for manufacturing or distribution operations, Dematic Miniloads provide rapid access to trays, totes, or varying size cartons in a high-density and energy efficient storage structure.
Benefits of Dematic Miniload AS/RSs
- Increase storage density: Storage & Retrieval Machines (SRMs) rapidly move loads in and out of a secured rack structure that can be over 20 meters tall. With multi-deep storage options, Dematic Miniload AS/RSs offer outstanding space utilization in ambient, chilled, or freezer environments.
- Boost throughput: Dematic Miniload AS/RSs offer the high-speed rates while moving up to six loads in a single cycle. The SRM's patented mast design weighs 20% less than traditional rigid masts and has friction or belt drive options. Intelligent software and controls allow these systems to operate unattended around the clock.
- Enhance flexibility: Dematic offers single-mast and double-mast models of the SRM that can be equipped with up to six load handling devices. The broad portfolio of load handling devices handle 50-kilogram trays, totes, or cartons of varying sizes from 150 to 650 millimeters wide.
- Improve efficiency, accuracy, reliability: Dematic Miniload AS/RSs operate in an efficient “lights-out” environment. They are designed for mission critical applications to ensure easy maintenance and maximum uptime. Lightweight aluminum mast design, energy recovery, and energy-efficient drive technologies provide both environmental and financial benefits.
What criteria should you use when evaluating an automation partner?
Why choose Dematic as your automation partner
Built for continuous improvement
Our partnership continues long after go‑live. Dematic Lifecycle Solutions & Services refine, modernize, and expand systems as your business evolves. Assessment, optimization, training, and upgrades extend equipment life, improve performance, and reduce waste. Ongoing support featuring modular technologies and adaptable software allow you to grow your operations without disruption, securing long‑term value.