Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Market Size - By Storage, By Delivery Type, By Loading Capacity, By End Use, By Distribution Channel, By Region, Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Vertical Lift Module Market Size

The global vertical lift module market was estimated at USD 1.87 billion in 2024 and is set to grow at a CAGR of 9.4% from 2025 to 2034. The market is experiencing steady growth with increased demand for automated solutions to storage and retrieval units and high utilizations of space and efficient operations. The need for compact and fast online storage is on the rise as more industries gain momentum in operations like the automotive, pharmaceutical, and e-commerce industries.

VLMs imply simplification of the management of the inventory, reduced time of picking, and the enhancement of ergonomics, all of which are compliant with the trend of smart warehousing. One of the trends observed is in manufacturers who are concentrating on incorporating charismatic software, real-time tracking, and the touchless interface, to serve the currently increased demand of Industry 4.0 compatible systems. Vertical storage systems have also been advanced by urban industrial expansions and low available floor space in warehouses. These modules do not only minimize labor dependency but also guarantee an improved accuracy of order fill.
 

Sustainability and energy efficiency are being put on by the VLM market as companies are on the path of reducing their effects on the environment. The VLM systems developed recently, have regenerative drive, minimized power usage and modular design with recyclable materials. These units are ensured to have increasing uptime and lifecycle management due to the investment of predictive maintenance and power analytics with artificial intelligence.
 

There is also the provision of a smart manufacturing and automation infrastructure by the government that favors the implementation of smart intelligent storage systems in regions. With more companies empowering their activities with lean operations and digitalization trends, the importance of VLMs in streamlining the logistics processes is rapidly gaining popularity. The market will experience faster growth in the next several years due to sustained R&D activities and demand for space-saving automation across various industries.
 

Vertical Lift Module Market Trends

Due to the increasing intensity of warehouse activities, the trend towards vertical lift modules (VLM) with new safety and ergonomic functions can be observed. Firms are looking at solutions where the physical effort is minimized and the user interface is simple, natural as well. New features, such as touchless operation, smart card access and automated weight detection are gaining popularity since hygiene and safety standards are becoming higher. There is emerging demand for modular VLMs that can be reconfigured or scaled depending on the shift in storage needs. The tendency demonstrates that the contemporary facility requires flexible and adaptable storage systems even more.
 

The VLM market is also impacted by the demand for data-driven decision-making, as the newer systems adopt analytics and the machine learning tools. These technologies can give information on how to select, how stock is moving and how the system is being used, and performance can be kept optimized. Completeness with larger warehouse management systems (WMS) and enterprise resources planning (ERP) platforms is becoming a mandatory feature. VLMs are also getting dynamic through real time notifications, off site diagnostics, and predictive service that offers another chance to transform the product in an entirely different manner. With the pace of digital transformation increasing, such intelligent functions are making VLMs key players in logistics ecosystems ready in the future.
 

Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Market Analysis

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Based on storage type, the vertical lift module market is segmented as temperature controlled/ refrigerated and non-refrigerated. In 2024 the non-refrigerated segment dominated the global market, accounting for 65.6% share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.7% during 2025 to 2034.
 

• The non-refrigerated segment is the leader in the vertical lift module (VLM) market because it has a wide range of applications in the automotive, electronics industry and industrial manufacturing sectors. These are the industries that mostly deal with things that do not need temperature provision such as tools, parts, and components. Non-refrigerated VLMs have fewer system configurations and retrieval speed when compared to refrigerated ones thus they are simpler to install and use. Businesses wishing to automate but not to spend a lot of money on the infrastructure also find them attractive. Further, energy consumption and maintenance are less because cooling systems are not present. The versatility, cheaper operating costs, and the ease to integrate the non-refrigerated units has made them the choice to use.
   
• The other reason that has fueled the prevalence of the non-refrigerated VLM are the increased inventory accuracy requirement and effective space allocation in dry storage areas. Stocks with high volume SKUs that need frequent man handling but do not necessitate cooling would often be found in warehouses and distribution centers thus VLMs can be deployed at such locations. The manufacturers are also concentrating on making modular designs that will have adjustable trays and an adjustable height so that different storage requirements are satisfied. To track processes and real-time, these systems are being joined to maximize warehouse management software (WMS). Since the logistics industry focuses on speed, perceivability, and organization, VLMs with no refrigeration give the perfect combination of performance and dependability. Their flexibility to adjust to other businesses is still giving rise to the increase in segments worldwide.
  
  
  
  
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Based on delivery type, the market is divided into single-level delivery and dual-level delivery. In 2024, the single-level delivery comprised 63.8% share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.9% during 2025 to 2034.
 

• The single-level delivery is taking over the vertical lift module market with ease through its associated simplicity, cost, and convenience in operation, it will remain the ultimate choice in the cross-industrial arena. Items are delivered at a standard height by the system due to which its ergonomics is enhanced, and the working loads of the operators are minimized. It has an easy-to-use interface, which needs minimal training hence it is applicable in a facility with a shifting workforce. Lower installation and maintenance cost also enhances its attraction too small to mid-sized enterprises. All these benefits make such a mode of delivery the most applicable and scalable one in the modern dynamic warehouse. These features make it applicable in high access storage in areas where speed and reliability are significant.
   
• Moreover, perfect co-integration of single-level delivery systems with barcode systems, pick-to-light systems, and warehouse management software permits higher accuracy and control of orders and inventories. Its ability to process SKUs that are not very frequently accessed such as manufacturing industry, healthcare and electronics industries is an advantage. It is compact, which saves space and will fit where there is little space to add automation in facilities. Single-level systems are consistent and reliable and result in faster ROI. All these benefits make such a mode of delivery the most applicable and scalable one in the modern dynamic warehouse.
   

Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented as direct and indirect. The direct channel segment is expected to hold a major share of 75.9% in 2024.
 

• Vertical lift module (VLM) market is being captured by the direct sales distribution channel because it provides customized solutions, and it is also clear in how the manufacturers are communicating with the end-users. Installations of VLM systems are usually dependent on specific industry-related requirements which are best dealt with through direct involvement. Through this channel, the manufacturers can know the challenges in operations and provide accurate solutions. It also gives improved project planning, installation and integration services. Industries find it more convenient to go with direct sales because of their reliability as well as their technical support.
   
• Direct sales also assure long-run relationships and trust building between vendors and buyers without which high-value automation systems such as VLMs cannot be built. The customers also enjoy the services of after-sales service support, services on maintenance, and upgrades in the products at the source itself. The elimination of the middlemen will help to avoid miscommunication and accelerate service provision. Moreover, a good number of companies and organizations would order large-volume or formerly featured projects with certified vendors. Such benefits make direct sales the first preference in VLM market in terms of effective, high quality and customer centered service.
   

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In North America, United States is dominating the vertical lift module market by 87.3% revenue share and generated USD 460 million in 2024.
 

• North America is dominating the market because the industrial base is highly developed, and the concept of automation is widely implemented. The region is investing a lot in manufacturing, logistics and warehousing, where the space and efficiency of store facilities are being invested in. The high costs of labor have compelled firms to in-time VLMs which ensure more productivity and less manual handling of materials. Vehicle-to-grid technology also provides the following improvement through the availability of key market players and technology providers, leading to swift product development and implementation. Market leadership is also enabled by government incentive and support of smart manufacturing.
   
• Also, U.S. has a developed business market and well-developed supply chains which makes automated storage systems such as VLMs to be in high demand. The adoption of VLMs is becoming common among businesses as businesses in the past turned to this technology to improve their operations, condense the lead time, and achieve an accurate inventory. The market also is positioned with good digital infrastructure and therefore integrating VLMs with the warehouse management systems is easy. The reason as to why the region is a favorite in the adoption of VLM is because of customization options, after-sales and targeting innovation. All these contribute to strengthening the dominant role of North America in the world VLM market.
   

In Asia Pacific (APAC) region China is leading the market growth with the CAGR of 12.6% through 2034.
 

• China is dominating the vertical lift module industry owing to its mass production capacity, and a low-cost manufacturing. They have a well-developed supplier and components network which enables them to assemble them quickly and easily. This is an added advantage that manufacturers take to provide competitive systems within the local and international market. The growth in the country as far as the rate of industrialization is concerned, and the sudden surge of interest in warehouse automation has also brought up the demand of VLMs. Due to increased urbanization and e-commerce, corporations in China have moved on to VLMs to cut space and increase productivity.
   
•  Moreover, China is also very supportive of research and development which helps them to sustain innovation of VLM technologies. They are also installing advanced functionality such as smart controls, real-time tracking and automated picking to accommodate market changes which are required by manufacturers. Industrial automation and smart factories are also outlined in terms of governmental encouragement in expanding the industry. The capability of producing good systems at scale goes much far in securing China in the global market. A combination of such factors makes China a worldwide prominent producer, as well as adopter of Vertical Lift Modules.
   

In Europe, Germany is growing rapidly in the vertical lift module market with CAGR of 11.4% till 2034.
 

• Germany is a leader in vertical lift module industry because of its concentration on automation in the business industry and precision engineering. Automobiles and heavy machines are some of the well-developed manufacturing industries in the country that require high-level materials storage to improve working performance. VLM systems are thoroughly employed to maximize the floor space as well as guarantee speedy and errorless high-volume picking. Modules produced in Germany have been regarded to be durable, precise and easily integrable with the existing systems. This can be trusted and thus they are very popular with the local industries as well as the overseas customers.
   
• Germany is on the forefront of pursuing intelligent warehouse automation with the integration of AI, IoT, and VLM systems to use data about their location and optimize their processes. The local manufacturers are well engaged in developing modular and energy efficient designs that meet the changing sustainability requirements. The process is even more intensified by the support of the local governments on smart infrastructure and digital supply chain. There is an additional cooperation between industry and educational institutions and research centres to promote ongoing innovation. This culture of quality, innovativeness and economy clearly makes Germany a global market leader in the VLM market.
   

In MEA, UAE is growing in the vertical lift module market with CAGR of 4.9% through 2034.
 

• The UAE is dominating the vertical lift module (VLM) market in the MEA region because of its high-speed infrastructure construction and high level of focus towards automation of logistics and warehousing. The strategic position of the country as a leading global trade platform has resulted in the development of advanced distributions centers and free zones. Organizations are more inclined to the use of VLM systems to minimize the amount of space used in the storage and dependency shared by people among others. An increased requirement to automate the vertical storage solutions has been generated with increased investments in automating industries and intelligent warehouses. It is a positive trend that the UAE is a leader in integrating into the use of modern technologies in intralogistics.
   
• Besides, the UAE government strongly supports the process of digitalization and smart industry programs in its array under the development of such programs as UAE Vision 2031 and others. Business conditions in the surrounding areas, reduction of phases, tax incentives, as well as modern infrastructure have favored local corporations that have boosted the implementation of VLM systems. The retail, e-commerce and production industries are also growing, and they need scalability and space saving in their storage solutions. UAE is considered by the International VLM manufacturers as the gateway to the development of markets of the Middle East and Africa. All these factors make UAE the most fit market to adopt VLM in the MEA market.
   

Vertical Lift Module Market Share

• Kardex, Hanel Buro, Ferretto SpA, Modula GROUP, AutoCrib are the major players accounting for market share. Vertical Lift Module (VLM) is very competitive with both international and local players dispersing in the market warehouse. Organizations are in a constant process of improving product strength in accordance with the increased demand for automation of storage systems, their speed and exactness. Customization, fast installation and low downtimes are emerging as competitive tools. To have a competitive advantage, the players work to provide value-added services, including distant diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and integration assistance. Such high rivalry is promoting constant innovations and pricing efficiency in the market.
   
• Moreover, the market also experiences the growing cooperation among automation firms and industry-specific integrators with the aim of providing custom VLM solutions. Automobile industry, pharmaceutical and logistics companies are also prime targets because they use a high-density, space-efficient technology. Firms that provide customizable solutions and solutions that are easily configured frequently are better performers than simple product suppliers. This is because competitive pricing, rapid replies, and access to reliable after sales services also play key roles in influencing the buying decision made by buyers. The competition is simply going to be steeper as industries focus on smart warehouses and lean operations.
   

Vertical Lift Module Market Companies

Major players operating in the vertical lift module industry:

• AutoCrib
• Conveyor Handling Company
• ELF Automation
• Ferretto SpA
• Hänel Büro
• ICAM S.p.A.
• Kardex 
• LISTA
• Mecalux, S.A. 
• Modula GROUP
• Rabatex Group
• SSI SCHÄFER
• Vidir Solutions, Inc.
• Vidmar
• Weland Solutions
   

Kardex, Hanel Buro, Ferretto SpA, Modula GROUP, AutoCrib are the most powerful companies that are dominating the Vertical Lift Module (VLM). These are companies that have gained a reputation in providing sturdy storage systems, which have such features as modular systems, ergonomic connections and smart Inventory control programming. Their capacity to provide fast picking, space maximization, and compatibility with warehouse management system (WMS) is the reason why they are the first choice in any industry (automotive, pharma, and e-commerce). The investments in R&D-based services of these companies allow them to increase the ratings of wear resistance, efficiency of operation and connectivity, so as to match their services to the changing needs of smart warehouses. These players are having a major impact on the innovation and standardization of automated vertical storage with a powerful international presence and well-developed technological structure.
 

SSI SCHAFER, ICAM S.p.A., LISTA, Vidmar, and Weland Solutions are other competitive companies that define the competitive dynamics of this market. Such companies provide a broad quality of units of VLM equipment that suits various storage volumes and load bearing, and they usually target scalability, low maintenance and a safe working environment. Their products find extensive application in an industrial environment such as manufacturing plants, distribution centers, retail warehouses where space utilization is of the essence. A large part of such businesses focuses on energy-efficiency, customization of system configuration, and compatibility with Industry 4.0 technology. They will play a major role in supporting market competition because of their capacity to respond to the increasing need of highly automated and high-density storage. The combination of the competitive landscape has led to constant innovative development and growth within the global VLM arena.
 

Vertical Lift Module Industry News

• In January 2025, Kardex has just unveiled its improved version of VLM platform with a new level of control system called as Total Intelligence Concept (TIC). This update is very efficient at enhancing system effectiveness and a more user-friendly interface. First announced on the international markets and even available in North America as of Spring 2025, this release points to a significant step toward intelligent storage automation.
   
• In March 2024, Under Greenspace Industrial, Modula launched its vertical storage system that maximizes ceiling height, real time inventory controls and efficiencies on the pick-and place operations. It is specifically designed to meet the needs of space-restricted environments and further demonstrates the continuous interest in compact as well as highly automated intralogistics solutions.
   

The vertical lift module market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue ($ Mn/Bn) and Volume in Thousand Units from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments.

Market, By Storage Type

• Temperature controlled/refrigerated
• Non-refrigerated

Market, By Delivery Type

• Single-level delivery
• Dual-level delivery

Market, By Loading Capacity

• Up to 500 kg per tray
• 500 to 700 kg per tray
• Above 700 kg per tray

Market, By End Use

• Automotive
• Food & beverages
• Retail, warehouse & logistics
• Metals & machinery
• Chemical
• Others (healthcare, aviation etc.)

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Direct sales
• Indirect sales

The above information is provided for the following regions:

• North America  
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
• MEA 
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa