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Space is one of the most valuable assets in any operation. Whether you manage a manufacturing floor, a warehouse, a repair/maintenance department or a parts room, every inch counts. Maybe not today, but eventually. Why is this? Because shelving and racking systems have a built-in issue: they spread storage horizontally, forcing expansion outward—or to lease additional space.
For a detailed comparison of various storage systems and VLMs, read our blog: How Carousels and VLMs Optimize Space
Storage system comparisons
| Storage Method | Density | Vertical Space Utilization | Aisle Requirement | Organization/Accessibility | Space Savings vs. Shelving |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hänel Lean-Lift VLM | Very High - trays stored in tight vertical sequence | Full ceiling height (up to 40+ ft) | None - automated access | Fully organized, fast retrieval via control panel | 60-80% space reduction |
| Conventional Shelving | Low - fixed shelf spacing | Limited (up to ~15 ft) | High - wide walking aisles | Manual access, prone to clutter | Baseline |
| Pallet Racking | Moderate - for bulk goods only | Moderate (forklift height limits) | Very High - requires forklift aisles | Limited item accessibility | 10-20% improvement with optimization |
| Drawer Cabinets / Bins | Moderate | Very limited (~6-7 ft max) | Moderate - operator aisles required | Good organization for small parts | 20-30% improvement |
| Mezzanine Floor Systems | Moderate | Adds one level of vertical storage | Still requires aisles and stairs | Manual, less ergonomic | 30-40% improvement |