What is the AutoStore system? An AutoStore system is a revolutionary solution for automated storage and retrieval. It is a cube-shaped automated storage system that maximizes space efficiency and enables high-speed order fulfillment. Unlike traditional racking systems, AutoStore stores cases in a tightly packed grid and uses robots to retrieve them from the top layer.

Whether you run an e-commerce warehouse, a 3PL fulfillment center, or a manufacturing distribution center, AutoStore offers unparalleled scalability and performance while reducing space and energy consumption

What are the main components of an Autostore system?

AutoStore warehouse operations are built around several core components, such as Robots, controller software, grids, and bins:

Grid (Frame Structure)

Grid (Frame Structure)

The aluminum grid is the structural backbone of the AutoStore system. It forms the storage volume and holds vertically stacked bins. The grid allows the robot to move along the X and Y axes to reach the storage columns below.

Bin (Storage Box)

Binds are durable plastic boxes for storing items. Each grid column can stack multiple bins (up to 24 or more), and the bins can contain small parts, retail items or components.

Robots

robots

Robots run on top of the grid and are responsible for picking the bins. They are battery-powered and communicate wirelessly. Two robot models are commonly used:

Red Line Robots – cost-effective and ideal for moderate throughput.

Black Line Robots – Higher Speed, Better Performance for High Volume Operations.

Gate (Workstation)

Gate (Workstation)

This is the operator access point where the robot delivers bins for picking, replenishment, or return. The gate can be configured for ergonomic picking or automated integration.

Controller and Software (WMS Integration)

The AutoStore system is managed through a Central Controller and integrated with a Warehouse Management System (WMS). The software manages robot traffic, bin locations, inventory management, and order prioritization in real-time.

How does the AutoStore system work?

The AutoStore operating mechanism is both simple and sophisticated, arranged in a certain order and process, including the following steps:

• Item storage: Products are stored in bins, arranged in a grid according to inventory data. Frequently accessed items are placed higher for faster access.
• Order processing: When an order is placed, the AutoStore software identifies the bin and dispatches a robot.
• Robotic picking: The robot moves through the grid to the designated location, picks up the bins with a clamp, and carries them to the appropriate dock.
• Operator picking: At the dock, the operator picks the required items from the bin. If necessary, the bin is returned to the warehouse or sent for replenishment.
• Replenishment and returns: Replenishment and returns are also processed through the same automated flow.

Process steps are optimized and highly scalable, ensuring warehouse operations remain seamless even during peak times.

What does an AutoStore system typically cost?

What does an AutoStore system typically cost?

Installation costs are often the deciding factor for companies considering warehouse automation. However, the price of an AutoStore system is not fixed and will vary depending on many objective factors such as:

• Grid size (storage capacity)
• Number of robots and gateways
• Degree of software integration
• Technical or custom expansion needs

In general, the price range of an Autostore system ranges from $500,000 for small systems to over $3 million for large-scale systems. Although the initial cost can be quite high, the performance of the Autostore system is truly worth the investment.

What industries use AutoStore?

What industries use AutoStore?

AutoStore is widely used in many different industries, especially those that require fast, accurate, and space-saving storage:

• E-commerce & Retail – AutoStore enables fast order fulfillment and returns processing, ideal for apparel, cosmetics, and consumer goods.
• 3PL & Fulfillment Centers – Third-party logistics providers use AutoStore to manage multiple customer warehouses within a limited footprint.
• Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare – The system ensures clean, accurate, and traceable handling of medical devices, lab supplies, and pharmaceuticals.
• Electronics & Components – AutoStore helps manage thousands of small parts, from resistors to chips, with high picking accuracy.
• Food & Grocery Distribution – Specialized configurations allow the use of refrigerated AutoStore systems for fresh or packaged goods.

What is the Autostore system development trend for 2025?

The future of AutoStore is shaped by the growing need for automation, labor challenges, and the rise of omnichannel fulfillment. Trends for a comprehensive Autostore system in 2025:

• Integration of AI and Predictive Analytics: AutoStore will increasingly integrate with AI-enabled WMS to forecast demand, optimize robot paths, and reduce retrieval times.
• Robots as a Service (RaaS): Flexible pricing models will allow companies to lease robots and infrastructure, reducing upfront capital investment.
• More cold chain and small fulfillment solutions: AutoStore will expand into urban fulfillment centers and cold storage applications where space-saving automation is critical.
• Sustainability Improvements: New robot models and grids with lower energy usage and recyclable materials are expected to align with green warehouse initiatives.

Conclusion

The AutoStore system stands out as a future-ready solution. Its compact design, modular scalability, and exceptional picking performance make it ideal for companies looking to maximize warehouse space without sacrificing speed or accuracy.

From e-commerce and healthcare to manufacturing and cold storage, AutoStore has proven its worth across industries worldwide. And with continued advancements in robotics, software integration, and sustainability, the system is poised to become even more powerful in 2025 and beyond.