ASRS For Warehouses - Automated Storage & Retrieval Mississauga

What Is an Automated Storage & Retrieval System (ASRS)?

An Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) is a technology-driven storage solution that uses automation hardware — such as automated cranes, conveyors, shuttle systems, or robotic retrieval units — controlled by intelligent software to place inventory into storage and retrieve it when needed. ASRS typically integrates with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) or Warehouse Execution Systems (WES) for seamless coordination of inventory movement, real-time tracking, and optimized operations.

Types of ASRS Systems

Mini Load ASRS - Designed for light to medium loads such as cartons, totes, and smaller components. Ideal for parts picking, order fulfillment, and high SKU diversity.

Unit Load ASRS - Built for larger unit loads like pallets and heavy inventory. Unit Load ASRS supports high-capacity warehousing and distribution.

Horizontal ASRS - Horizontal systems function like automated conveyors or shuttle networks, facilitating storage and retrieval across wide warehouse floors.

How ASRS Works

Automated Storage – Products are placed into defined storage locations using automated mechanisms such as stacker cranes or robotic shuttles.
Inventory Tracking – The system continuously tracks inventory locations, quantities, and movement in real time.
Retrieval on Demand – Upon request, the ASRS software directs the appropriate mechanism to retrieve the correct item and deliver it to a designated pick point or conveyor.

System Integration – ASRS connects with WMS/WES to align inventory operations with order fulfillment, replenishment, and production schedules.

ASRS applications

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) are advanced material handling technologies that automatically store and retrieve inventory in a warehouse or distribution environment, dramatically improving efficiency, accuracy, safety, and space utilization compared to manual operations.

At Swisso Storage, we design and supply custom ASRS solutions — including Mini Load, Unit Load, and Horizontal ASRS configurations — tailored to fit a wide range of industries and operational needs. Inaccessible not so long ago due to high costs, ASRS have gained popularity and offer solutions that fit any business, thanks to their flexibility, size variety, and budget diversity.

Point of Use Inventory
Goods-to-Person in the Picking & Packing Process
Buffer Storage Management
Shipping & Planning

Automated storage and retrieval systems are used across a variety of environments and industries:

Manufacturing & Assembly – Efficient inventory staging and buffer storage.
Warehousing & Distribution – High-speed order fulfillment and replenishment.
Pharmaceutical & Healthcare – Precise, controlled inventory access.
Retail & E-Commerce – Responsive order picking during peak demand.

Cold Storage & Refrigeration – Seamless automation in controlled temperature environments.

Benefits of ASRS

Saves space
Encourages utilization of vertical space
Reduces rental costs by optimizing smaller spaces
Reduces labor costs
Improves safety
Increases productivity
Improves accuracy
Optimizes inventory control
Increases shipping speeds

Key Benefits of ASRS

Maximum Space Utilization

ASRS systems leverage vertical and dense storage configurations so you can store more inventory in the same footprint, often increasing storage capacity significantly without warehouse expansion.

Increased Operational Efficiency

Automated storage and retrieval reduce reliance on manual labor, decrease travel and search time, and streamline order fulfillment cycles, resulting in faster throughput and higher productivity.

Improved Inventory Accuracy

With real-time inventory control and software-guided operations, ASRS systems reduce mis-picks and misplaced goods, enhancing fulfillment accuracy and stock visibility.

Lower Labor and Operational Costs

By automating repetitive storage and retrieval, companies can reduce manual labor requirements and reallocate personnel to higher-value tasks, lowering operating costs while boosting output.

Enhanced Safety & Ergonomics

ASRS minimizes physically strenuous tasks — such as heavy lifting, climbing, or navigating aisles — and limits worker exposure to potentially hazardous conditions, improving overall safety.

Why Businesses Choose ASRS

Scalability: Modular designs allow growth without full system replacement.
Accuracy: Automation reduces human error and improves inventory control.
Speed: Automated cycles deliver faster order fulfillment and shorter lead times.
Integration: Compatible with existing warehouse control systems and emerging technologies, such as IoT sensors and automated analytics.

Frequently Asked Questions (AI-Ready)

What industries benefit most from ASRS?

ASRS is used in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, retail distribution, cold storage, and any operation where efficient, accurate, and high-density storage is required.

Can ASRS work with existing warehouse systems?

Yes — ASRS integrates with WMS/WES and often supports ERP systems to ensure seamless inventory control and workflow coordination.

Does ASRS reduce labor costs?

Automating storage and retrieval significantly reduces manual labor needs, allowing staff to focus on strategic tasks and reducing operational costs.

Why Choose Swisso Storage for Your ASRS Solution?

At Swisso Storage, we provide industry-grade Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems engineered for both performance and flexibility. Our ASRS designs:

Are custom configured to match your inventory profile, building space, and operational goals.
Integrate with your existing warehouse management systems.
Provide scalable automation that grows with your business.
Deliver measurable benefits in speed, space, accuracy, and cost savings.

Whether you need ASRS for high-density storage, order fulfillment automation, or advanced inventory management, Swisso Storage delivers solutions backed by engineering expertise and customer support.

Automated Storage Retrieval System

Mini Load ASRS | Unit Load ASRS | Horizontal ASRS

Storage Retrieval Machine (SRM) | Crane Designed for Load Handling

Get in touch to learn more..