Solution FAQs

Learn about AutoStore functionality, benefits, & implementation.

FAQ topic

What is AutoStore and automated storage and retrieval (AS/RS)

Introduction | Understanding AutoStore solutions and automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS).

Solution Design, Layout, & Configuration

Customizing your AutoStore | Flexible options for configuration, layout and space optimization

System Efficiency, Speed & Throughput Capacity

Capabilities | Picking & sequencing, dynamic SKU distribution, and peak demand operations.

Storage & Inventory Management

Capabilities | Dynamic storage & inventory handling

E-commerce & Omnichannel Fulfillment

Capabilties | Optimizing fulfilllment for e-commerce retail, B2B & in-store

Integrations, Third-party Technology & Equipment

Capabilities | Integrating & combining with third-party software and hardware solutions or equipment.

Installation & Site Requirements

Installation | Installing and extending your AutoStore and site requirements.

Daily Management & Performance

Operations | Support & maintenance, system uptime, & 24/7 operations

Inventory Security & Safe Handling

Shrinkage | Theft & loss prevention

Health & Safety

Operations | Dire prevention, user safety & well-being

What is an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS)?

What is AutoStore AS/RS?

What size and types of warehouses is AutoStore suitable for?

What kind of inventory can be stored in an Autostore?

What are the five standard modules used to design every AutoStore?

Which industries typically use AutoStore solutions?

Does AutoStore have a maximum throughput rate?

What other solution components are available besides the 5 standard modules?

Does AutoStore offer solutions for small & medium businesses (SMBs)?

Is Cube Storage a new or emerging technology?

Did AutoStore build the world's first grid-based cube storage solution?

How easy is to create a new AutoStore design concept for our warehouse?

Can you accurately predict the performance of our AutoStore configuration before it's installed?

How can you be sure that our AutoStore will provide the most efficient floor layout and use of warehouse space?

Are all AutoStore modules compatible with each other and can they all be used in the same system?

Does the storage Grid need to be a uniform cube shape with four equal sides?

Can the Grid layout be designed to fit around corners, pillars, etc.?

Does the Grid need to be the same height all the way across?

Do Ports (workstations) need to be on the same floor as the Grid?

Can we install Grids on two different floors to help maximize vertical space?

Can AutoStore be installed around corners, obstacles and other irregular footprint shapes?

What does the term “robot density” refer to?

How is AutoStore able to achieve much higher robot density than other AS/RS?

What is a pick tunnel and how does it help with picking efficiency?

What is Bin Lift and how does it help with layout and configuration?

Can we use different sized Bins in the same Grid?

Would reducing the height of our Grid speed up performance?

Does a bigger Grid with more total inventory being stored impact the performance of an AutoStore? Are larger Grids less efficient?

Can we easily adjust the system configurations during peak demand to handle increased order volume?

How long does it typically take an AutoStore to process an order?

Does AutoStore support priority / rush order processing?

How does AutoStore help to optimize order consolidation?

Will AutoStore reduce picking errors?

Does AutoStore have order sequencing functionality?

How long do you recommend leaving for cut off-times?

Can AutoStore be combined with third-party picking technology such as robotic arms or pick-to-light systems to enhance efficiency further?

Does AutoStore offer automated robotic picking capabilites?

How does AutoStore maximize picking speed & efficiency compared to traditional AS/RS solutions?

Can we offer express delivery services using AutoStore?

Is there a maximum number of SKUs that can be stored in an AutoStore?

Does Autostore always need time to dig for Bins in advance?

Can the system prepare Bins overnight to be ready for the morning shift?

What is Bin Forecasting & how can it help us optimize daily performance?

Is AutoStore suitable for fulfilling large orders, such as B2B store fulfillment?

What makes AutoStore more space efficient than other automated storage?

How do we determine what Bin size is best to use in our Grid?

Can we mix different SKUs inside the same Bin?

Does AutoStore work efficiently with any ABC classification/order structure?

What level of SKU-access does AutoStore storage provide? Is any product category or storage area ever inaccessible to the Robot fleet?

How is SKU placement determined in the Grid? Does inventory have fixed slots similar to shelving solutions?

What is natural slotting and why is it beneficial for efficient order fulfillment?

Can we combine inventory selections for multiple order channels in the same Grid?

We're a 3PL - can we combine different customer inventories in the same Grid?

What is the maximum weight load for a single Bin?

Can we modify Bins to better adapt them to smaller inventory & increase storage density?

Does AutoStore use a mirrored inventory list from our WMS?

Is AutoStore suitable for storing & processing large or bulky items?

Can we integrate our e-commerce platform with AutoStore?

Can we use one AutoStore for performing omnichanel order fulfillment

Can we combine B2B & B2C inventory in the same AutoStore?

Can AutoStore help with processing returns?

Is AutoStore efficient for fulfillment with regular promos, sales, or other short-term spikes in SKU demand etc.?

Can AutoStore integrate with pouch sorters?

Does AutoStore support sequencing for to optimize store deliveries?

What third-party technologies can AutoStore be integrated with?

Can we use our existing software (ERP/WMS?) with AutoStore?

Can AutoStore be combined with other types of storage solutions?

Is Autostore futue-proof? Will it be possible to integrate our AutoStore with new technology released in the future?

How long does it typically take for a new AutoStore to go live?

Do we need to shut down our existing operations when installing a new AutoStore?

Do we need to remove obstacles like pillars, or make any structural modifications to implement AutoStore?

Is it possible to extend an AutoStore?

How long does it typically take to extend an AutoStore?

Do we need to shut down our AutoStore when extending it?

Can we use our existing sprinkler system?

What is the average uptime of AutoStore?

Does AutoStore include data analytics & reporting capabilities to optimize performance?

Can AutoStore Robots operate over extended multi-shift periods?

What is Unify Analytics™ and how does it help us optimize daily management performance of our AutoStore?

Does the system shut down if a Robot becomes jammed on the Grid?

Is it possible to remove a faulty Bin from the Grid?

Is there a system log in case of failures?

Is the system backed up so it can easily resume operations if our warehouse experiences a power outage?

Does AutoStore provide support & maintenance services?

What is BinResQ

What does 'no single point of failure' (SPoF) mean and how does it enhance the reliability of AutoStore?

Can AutoStore help with inventory security & theft prevention?

Is it possible for unauthorized persons to access inventory inside the storage area?

Is it possible to discover where individuals SKUs are located within the Grid?

How does AutoStore help prevent other types of shrinkage?

Are AutoStore products certified by third-party accreditation bodies?

What are the main criteria AutoStore uses for its product safety testing framework?

What fire safety measures are AutoStore solutions designed with?

Does AutoStore conduct regular fire testing?

Is it possible to install a sprinkler system or other fire prevention system with AutoStore?

Can AutoStore be installed in earthquake zones?