Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Market Growth & Scope Report 2031

Vertical Lift Module Market Size and Forecast (2021 - 2031), Global and Regional Share, Trend, and Growth Opportunity Analysis Report Coverage: By Delivery Type (Single and Dual Level Delivery), Storage Type (Non-Refrigerated and Refrigerated Type), End-use (Automotive, E-commerce, Semiconductor and Electronics, Metals and Machinery, Food and Beverages, and Others), and Geography

Publication Month : Sep 2025

  • Report Code : TIPTE100000380
  • Category : Electronics and Semiconductor
  • Status : Published
  • No. of Pages : 213
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The Vertical Lift Module market size is expected to reach US$ 1,766.08 million by 2031 from US$ 950.19 million in 2024. The market is anticipated to register a CAGR of 9.7% during 2025–2031.

Vertical Lift Module Market Analysis

The adoption of VLMs is primarily being driven by growing e-commerce and omnichannel retail, increasing demand for automation and space optimization, and customization, flexibility, and smarter warehousing. AI, IoT-enabled predictive maintenance and inventory management, robotics and autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs), sustainability, and energy efficiency are the factors propelling the market's expansion. Future market trends are expected to comprise modular and scalable VLM designs, cloud-based architecture and real-time analytics, and technological advancements (IoT, AI, and sensors). However, market expansion is hindered by the high preliminary investment and capital expenditure, the complexity of integration and maintenance, and the requirement for safety standards and regulatory compliance.

Vertical Lift Module Market Overview

A Vertical Lift Module (VLM) is a smart storage system designed to save space and improve efficiency in places like warehouses, factories, and distribution centers. It uses two tall columns with an automated lift that moves trays up and down, storing them based on their height to avoid wasting space. Because it's fully enclosed, a VLM keeps items safe from dust, theft, and environmental damage—ideal for valuable or sensitive inventory. It also connects with inventory software (like WMS or ERP), which helps track stock in real time and simplifies restocking. VLMs are designed to be ergonomic, delivering items at a comfortable height for workers, reducing the physical strain of bending or walking. They're used in many industries, including manufacturing, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace. Top manufacturers in this space include Kardex, Modula, Hänel, and SSI SCHAEFER, all offering scalable systems that help companies save space, pick orders more accurately, and run leaner operations.

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Vertical Lift Module Market: Strategic Insights

vertical-lift-module-vlm-market
Market Size Value inUS$ 808.5 Million in 2017
Market Size Value byUS$ 1667.6 Million by 2025
Growth rateCAGR of 9.5% from 2018-2025
Forecast Period2018-2025
Base Year2018
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Vertical Lift Module Market Drivers and Opportunities

Market Drivers:

  • E-commerce Growth & Omnichannel Pressure:

    The rise of online shopping has increased demand for faster fulfillment, driving the adoption of VLMs to improve storage efficiency and retrieval speed in warehouses.
  • Urbanization & Space Optimization:

    Limited floor space and high real estate costs are pushing businesses to maximize vertical space. VLMs offer high-density storage without expanding facilities.
  • Automation & Efficiency Needs:

    The need for automated, space-saving storage solutions is accelerating VLM adoption, improving inventory control and operational performance in logistics centers.

Market Opportunities:

  • Sustainability & Energy Efficiency:

    VLMs are engineered to satisfy the sustainability and energy-efficient attributes due to their compact designs, energy-saving motors, and smart features. These could then be added points for green certification under LEED, BREEAM, etc.
  • AI & IoT Integration:

    Smart VLMs with sensors and AI facilitate predictive maintenance and real-time inventory management, thereby reducing downtime and increasing system reliability.
  • Integrate With Robotics & AGV:

    Integrating robotics and AGVs with VLMs brings in more automation to perform faster, accurate order fulfillment, and provide seamless material flow with minimum human intervention.

Market Trends:

  • Integration with Advanced IoT Analytics and Automation:

    Real-time tracking paired with vertical recorders and automatic lift access have much improvement in record optimization with the use of Vertical Modules.
  • The Advanced Implementation of Industrial Robotics:

    Vertical modules employ robotics vertically access machinery systematically and expeditiously while reducing energy expenditure with the optimization of vertical lift automatics.
  • Sustainably Focused:

    Gear manufactures and energy tectonics works on right-sized and silenced modules our vertical lift and energy expenditure modules vertically stream line warehouse and eco-balance operations.

Vertical Lift Module Market Report Segmentation Analysis

The Vertical Lift Module market is divided into different segments for its growth potential and the latest trends. Below is the standard segmentation approach used in industry reports:

By Delivery Type:

  • Single Level Delivery: Delivery and retrieval of goods from single access point.
  • Dual Level Delivery: Delivery and retrieval from two access points, improving efficiency.

By Storage Type:

  • Non-Refrigerated Type: Storage modules intended for standard temperature environments.
  • Refrigerated Type: Storage modules prepared to maintain low temperatures for perishable goods.

By End-Use:

  • Automotive
  • E-commerce
  • Semiconductor and Electronics
  • Metals and Machinery
  • Food and Beverages
  • Others

By Geography:

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • South & Central America
  • Middle East & Africa

Vertical Lift Module Market Report ScopeVertical Lift Module Market Share Analysis by Geography

The vertical lift module market in the Asia Pacific is experiencing significant growth, fueled by rapid industrialization and the rising demand for automated storage solutions in manufacturing and e-commerce sectors. Emerging markets in South & Central America, the Middle East & Africa offer promising opportunities for vertical lift module providers to expand their presence, driven by increasing warehouse automation and evolving regulatory standards..

The vertical lift module market's growth varies across regions due to adoption patterns, technology development, space optimization needs, and labor cost reduction. Below is a summary of market share and trends by region:

1. North America

  • Market Share:

    Significant market share driven by growing warehouse automation and increasing demand for space-efficient storage solutions.
  • Key Drivers:

    • The increasing e-commerce and retail sectors require higher order fulfillment speed and accuracy.
    • Industrial automation has found its way into manufacturing and logistics. These require optimized vertical storage that can maximize use of facility space and improve inventory management.
  • Trends:

    Increasing IoT and robotics integration adoption in vertical lift modules to improve operational efficiency and real-time inventory tracking.

2. Europe

  • Market Share:

    Europe holds a significant vertical lift module market share, supported by advanced manufacturing industries and stringent workplace safety regulations.
  • Key Drivers:

    • Strong presence of automotive and aerospace sectors demanding high-efficiency storage solutions.
    • An increase in the adoption of Industry 4.0 and automation technologies in warehouses and factories has been observed.
    • Strict regulations promote safe and ergonomic material handling systems..
  • Trends: 

    Growing integration of AI, IoT, and energy-efficient technologies in vertical lift modules to enhance productivity and sustainability.

3. Asia Pacific

  • Market Share:

    Asia Pacific is expanding its vertical lift module market share due to booming industrialization and growing e-commerce activities.
  • Key Drivers:

    • Electronics and telecommunication sectors being on the rise.
    • With rapid urbanization, there has been an ever-increasing demand for compact automated storage solutions.
    • Investments into smart warehouses and logistic infrastructure are also reaching new heights..
  • Trends:

    Rising adoption of advanced automation technologies, including IoT and robotics, is expected to improve efficiency and reduce labor costs in vertical lift modules.

4. South and Central America

  • Market Share:

    South & Central America are emerging markets with growing adoption of vertical lift modules, driven by increasing warehouse automation and industrial expansion.
  • Key Drivers:

    • Efficient storage systems and swift order processing are needed by expanding logistics and e-commerce sectors.
    • The growing manufacturing industries invest more into material handling systems that are automated.
    • The modernizing of supply chain infrastructure is now more focused on meeting global standards.
  • Trends:

    Gradual integration of automation and IoT technologies in vertical lift modules to enhance inventory accuracy and operational efficiency.

5. Middle East and Africa

  • Market Share:

    MEA is witnessing steady growth in the vertical lift module market, supported by expanding industrial sectors and the modernization of warehousing facilities.
  • Key Drivers:

    • Investment in logistics and supply chain infrastructure is increasing.
    • There is a growing demand from industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and retail for efficient storage solutions.
    • Government initiatives are being put in place to strengthen industrial automation and implementation of safety standards.
  • Trends:

    Rising adoption of smart warehouse technologies, including IoT-enabled vertical lift modules, is expected to boost efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Vertical Lift Module Market Players Density: Understanding Its Impact on Business DynamicsHigh Market Density and Competition

The vertical lift module market is highly competitive, with established players. Additionally, regional and specialized providers intensify the competitive landscape across regions.

This competitive environment pushes companies to differentiate themselves by offering:

  • Advanced vertical lift module solutions featuring AI-driven automation, IoT integration, and real-time analytics.
  • Customized storage solutions tailored for specific industries to enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Opportunities and Strategic Moves

  • Increasing adoption of robotics and AI to improve accuracy, speed, and reduce manual intervention in storage and retrieval processes.
  • Rising demand for energy-efficient and space-saving storage solutions is aligned with sustainability goals.
  • Expansion into emerging markets with industrialization and logistics infrastructure development.

Major Companies operating in the Vertical Lift Module Market are:

  1. SSI SCHAEFER Group — Neunkirchen, Germany
  2. Bastian Solutions LLC — Indianapolis, Indiana, US
  3. Daifuku Co Ltd — Osaka, Japan
  4. Kardex Holding AG — Zurich, Switzerland
  5. Mecalux SA — Barcelona, Spain
  6. Modula GROUP — Brescia, Italy
  7. Autocrib Inc — West Chester, Ohio, US
  8. Hänel Büro- und Lagersysteme — Herford, Germany
  9. White Systems — Franklin, Massachusetts, US
  10. Weland Solutions — Vetlanda, Sweden

Disclaimer: The companies listed above are not ranked in any particular order.

  1. Swisslog Holding AG
  2. Dematic Group
  3. Interlake Mecalux
  4. Elettric 80 S.p.A.
  5. Bito Storage Systems
  6. Knapp AG
  7. Vanderlande Industries
  8. Intelligrated (a Honeywell company)
  9. CubiScan
  10. Ar Racking Solutions
  11. SSI LOGIMAT (under SSI SCHAEFER but sometimes separately branded)
  12. Stow International
  13. System Logistics (part of Dematic)
  14. Kardex Remstar (part of Kardex Holding but separately branded)
  15. FlexLink
  16. Dematic Multishuttle
  17. System Logistics (Dematic subsidiary)
  18. Paternoster Systems
  19. Advance Storage Products (ASP)
  20. Colby Storage Solutions

Vertical Lift Module Market News and Recent Developments

  • Modula announced the expansion of its manufacturing facility in Franklin:

    Modula has officially announced the expansion of its manufacturing facility in Franklin, Ohio. The 170,000-square-foot addition to the existing 242,000-square-foot building will enable Modula to double its production capacity and consolidate its off-site warehouse and distribution operations. This move reinforces Modula’s long-term commitment to the US market and its strategy to provide faster, more flexible support to North American customers.
  • SSI SCHAEFER has been appointed as the general contractor for intralogistics:

    The scope of delivery includes an automated pallet high-bay silo, energy-efficient storage and retrieval machines, automated guided vehicles, extensive conveyor technology, and the integration of the new warehouse into the existing SAP EWM.

Vertical Lift Module Market Report Coverage and Deliverables

The "Vertical Lift Module Market Size and Forecast (2021–2031)" report provides a detailed analysis of the market covering the following areas:

  • Vertical Lift Module Market size and forecast at global, regional, and country levels for all the key market segments covered under the scope
  • Vertical Lift Module Market trends, as well as market dynamics such as drivers, restraints, and key opportunities
  • Detailed PEST and SWOT analysis
  • Vertical Lift Module Market analysis covering key market trends, global and regional framework, major players, regulations, and recent market developments
  • Industry landscape and competition analysis covering market concentration, heat map analysis, prominent players, and recent developments for the Vertical Lift Module Market
  • Detailed company profiles
Report Coverage
Report Coverage

Revenue forecast, Company Analysis, Industry landscape, Growth factors, and Trends

Segment Covered
Segment Covered

End-User

Regional Scope
Regional Scope

North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, South & Central America

Country Scope
Country Scope

US, Canada, Mexico, UK, Germany, Spain, Italy, France, India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Brazil, Argentina

Frequently Asked Questions


Which leading companies are in the Vertical Lift Module market?

Major players include SSI SCHAEFER Group, Bastian Solutions LLC, Daifuku Co Ltd., Kardex Holding, and Mecalux SA.

Which regions are leading in the adoption of the Vertical Lift Module?

As of 2025: 1. Asia Pacific, North America, and Europe are the leading regions in the adoption of Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs). Asia Pacific is experiencing rapid growth due to the expansion of electronics manufacturing, increasing use of 5G and IoT technologies, and stricter regulatory enforcement in developing markets. In North America, VLM adoption is driven by strong demand in the automotive, aerospace, and telecom sectors, with a focus on meeting FCC regulations and ensuring advanced product certification. Meanwhile, Europe’s growth is fueled by stringent EU regulations, widespread Industry 4.0 adoption, and increased attention to electromagnetic safety in EVs and industrial automation.

What are the challenges faced by the Vertical Lift Module market?

Challenges include:1. High Initial Investment Costs: VLMs require substantial upfront capital for procurement, installation, and integration with existing warehouse systems. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may find it difficult to justify the return on investment, especially in low-margin sectors.

Which industries are the primary end-users of the Vertical Lift Module?

Key industries utilizing Vertical Lift Module include:1. Automotive: Use of vertical lift modules in automotive manufacturing and parts storage.2. E-commerce: Application in online retail warehouses for fast and accurate order fulfillment.3. Semiconductor and Electronics: Storage and retrieval of sensitive electronic components.4. Metals and Machinery: Handling heavy and bulky industrial parts and tools.5. Food and Beverages: Storage solutions tailored for perishable and packaged food items.6. Others: Includes other industries utilizing vertical lift modules for storage needs.

Which delivery type segment is gaining traction in the Vertical Lift Module market?

The dual level delivery type segment is gaining traction in the Vertical Lift Module (VLM) market due to its ability to significantly enhance operational efficiency and throughput. Unlike single delivery systems, dual delivery VLMs allow one tray to be retrieved while another is being presented, minimizing downtime and speeding up order picking. This makes them ideal for high-volume, fast-paced environments such as e-commerce, manufacturing, and healthcare, where speed, space optimization, and continuous workflow are critical.

What are the key factors driving growth in the Vertical Lift Module market?

The market is primarily driven by:1. E-commerce Growth & Omnichannel Pressure: The rise of online shopping has increased demand for faster fulfillment, driving the adoption of VLMs to improve storage efficiency and retrieval speed in warehouses.2. Urbanization & Space Optimization: Limited floor space and high real estate costs are pushing businesses to maximize vertical space. VLMs offer high-density storage without expanding facilities.3. Automation & Efficiency Needs: The need for automated, space-saving storage solutions is accelerating VLM adoption, improving inventory control and operational performance in logistics centers.

What is the current size of the global Vertical Lift Module market?

The global Vertical Lift Module market was valued at ~US$ 950.19 million in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 1,766.08 million by 2031. The market is anticipated to register a CAGR of 9.7% during 2025–2031.

The List of Companies - Vertical Lift Module Market

  • SSI SCHAEFER Group
  • Bastian Solutions LLC
  • Daifuku Co Ltd
  • Kardex Holding AG
  • Mecalux SA
  • Modula GROUP
  • Autocrib Inc
  • Hänel Büro- und Lagersysteme
  • White Systems
  • Weland Solutions

The Insight Partners performs research in 4 major stages: Data Collection & Secondary Research, Primary Research, Data Analysis and Data Triangulation & Final Review.

  1. Data Collection and Secondary Research:

As a market research and consulting firm operating from a decade, we have published many reports and advised several clients across the globe. First step for any study will start with an assessment of currently available data and insights from existing reports. Further, historical and current market information is collected from Investor Presentations, Annual Reports, SEC Filings, etc., and other information related to company’s performance and market positioning are gathered from Paid Databases (Factiva, Hoovers, and Reuters) and various other publications available in public domain.

Several associations trade associates, technical forums, institutes, societies and organizations are accessed to gain technical as well as market related insights through their publications such as research papers, blogs and press releases related to the studies are referred to get cues about the market. Further, white papers, journals, magazines, and other news articles published in the last 3 years are scrutinized and analyzed to understand the current market trends.

  1. Primary Research:

The primarily interview analysis comprise of data obtained from industry participants interview and answers to survey questions gathered by in-house primary team.

For primary research, interviews are conducted with industry experts/CEOs/Marketing Managers/Sales Managers/VPs/Subject Matter Experts from both demand and supply side to get a 360-degree view of the market. The primary team conducts several interviews based on the complexity of the markets to understand the various market trends and dynamics which makes research more credible and precise.

A typical research interview fulfils the following functions:

  • Provides first-hand information on the market size, market trends, growth trends, competitive landscape, and outlook
  • Validates and strengthens in-house secondary research findings
  • Develops the analysis team’s expertise and market understanding

Primary research involves email interactions and telephone interviews for each market, category, segment, and sub-segment across geographies. The participants who typically take part in such a process include, but are not limited to:

  • Industry participants: VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers and national sales managers
  • Outside experts: Valuation experts, research analysts and key opinion leaders specializing in the electronics and semiconductor industry.

Below is the breakup of our primary respondents by company, designation, and region:

Research Methodology

Once we receive the confirmation from primary research sources or primary respondents, we finalize the base year market estimation and forecast the data as per the macroeconomic and microeconomic factors assessed during data collection.

  1. Data Analysis:

Once data is validated through both secondary as well as primary respondents, we finalize the market estimations by hypothesis formulation and factor analysis at regional and country level.

  • 3.1 Macro-Economic Factor Analysis:

We analyse macroeconomic indicators such the gross domestic product (GDP), increase in the demand for goods and services across industries, technological advancement, regional economic growth, governmental policies, the influence of COVID-19, PEST analysis, and other aspects. This analysis aids in setting benchmarks for various nations/regions and approximating market splits. Additionally, the general trend of the aforementioned components aid in determining the market's development possibilities.

  • 3.2 Country Level Data:

Various factors that are especially aligned to the country are taken into account to determine the market size for a certain area and country, including the presence of vendors, such as headquarters and offices, the country's GDP, demand patterns, and industry growth. To comprehend the market dynamics for the nation, a number of growth variables, inhibitors, application areas, and current market trends are researched. The aforementioned elements aid in determining the country's overall market's growth potential.

  • 3.3 Company Profile:

The “Table of Contents” is formulated by listing and analyzing more than 25 - 30 companies operating in the market ecosystem across geographies. However, we profile only 10 companies as a standard practice in our syndicate reports. These 10 companies comprise leading, emerging, and regional players. Nonetheless, our analysis is not restricted to the 10 listed companies, we also analyze other companies present in the market to develop a holistic view and understand the prevailing trends. The “Company Profiles” section in the report covers key facts, business description, products & services, financial information, SWOT analysis, and key developments. The financial information presented is extracted from the annual reports and official documents of the publicly listed companies. Upon collecting the information for the sections of respective companies, we verify them via various primary sources and then compile the data in respective company profiles. The company level information helps us in deriving the base number as well as in forecasting the market size.

  • 3.4 Developing Base Number:

Aggregation of sales statistics (2020-2022) and macro-economic factor, and other secondary and primary research insights are utilized to arrive at base number and related market shares for 2022. The data gaps are identified in this step and relevant market data is analyzed, collected from paid primary interviews or databases. On finalizing the base year market size, forecasts are developed on the basis of macro-economic, industry and market growth factors and company level analysis.

  1. Data Triangulation and Final Review:

The market findings and base year market size calculations are validated from supply as well as demand side. Demand side validations are based on macro-economic factor analysis and benchmarks for respective regions and countries. In case of supply side validations, revenues of major companies are estimated (in case not available) based on industry benchmark, approximate number of employees, product portfolio, and primary interviews revenues are gathered. Further revenue from target product/service segment is assessed to avoid overshooting of market statistics. In case of heavy deviations between supply and demand side values, all thes steps are repeated to achieve synchronization.

We follow an iterative model, wherein we share our research findings with Subject Matter Experts (SME’s) and Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) until consensus view of the market is not formulated – this model negates any drastic deviation in the opinions of experts. Only validated and universally acceptable research findings are quoted in our reports.

We have important check points that we use to validate our research findings – which we call – data triangulation, where we validate the information, we generate from secondary sources with primary interviews and then we re-validate with our internal data bases and Subject matter experts. This comprehensive model enables us to deliver high quality, reliable data in shortest possible time.

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