Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Single Level Delivery and Dual Level Delivery), By Application (Automotive, Industrial Manufacturing, Warehousing and Logistics, Aerospace and Others) and Regional Forecast to 2035

Last Updated: 10 November 2025
SKU ID: 21015831

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VERTICAL LIFT MODULE (VLM) MARKET OVERVIEW

The global Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Market is starting at an estimated value of USD 0.6 Billion in 2025 expected to grow to USD 0.65 Billion in 2026, ultimately reaching USD 0.742 Billion by 2035. This growth reflects a steady CAGR of 7.6% from 2025 through 2035.

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The Vertical Lift Module serves as a storage and retrieval automation system which optimizes workplace management alongside operational efficiency enhancement. A Vertical Lift Module consists of trays that get arranged vertically inside an enclosed storage system. User commands activate an extractor system which retrieves trays and provides them at ergonomic points throughout the operation.

KEY FINDINGS

  • Market Size and Growth: Global Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Market size was valued at USD 0.6 billion in 2025, expected to reach USD 0.742 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 7.6% from 2025 to 2035.
  • Key Market Driver: Around 64% of warehouses adopt VLMs to optimize storage density and improve 58% faster order picking efficiency.
  • Major Market Restraint: Nearly 41% of small enterprises report high initial investment and 37% cite maintenance complexity as adoption barriers.
  • Emerging Trends: About 59% of providers are integrating IoT and automated software controls, enhancing 52% operational accuracy and inventory management.
  • Regional Leadership: North America holds approximately 43% market share, driven by 61% higher adoption in automotive, electronics, and e-commerce sectors.
  • Competitive Landscape: The top 10 players account for around 48% of the market, emphasizing energy-efficient systems and modular VLM designs.
  • Market Segmentation: Single Level Delivery systems represent 56%, while Dual Level Delivery systems account for 44%, reflecting rising demand for multi-level automated storage.
  • Recent Development: Nearly 53% of key manufacturers launched AI-enabled predictive maintenance solutions and 47% enhanced modular design for flexible warehouse integration.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Industry Had a Negative Effect Due to Supply Chain Disruptions during COVID-19 Pandemic

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing higher-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The market first felt disruptions from lockdowns and restrictions which generated supply chain challenges as well as reduced manufacturing speeds. The automotive and retail sectors experienced reduced operations as well as operational closures which led to short-term declined VLM demand.

LATEST TRENDS

Integration of Advanced Technologies to Propel Market Growth

VLMs of today integrate robotics together with AI and IoT systems into their modern design. The installed systems provide dynamic product stock monitoring and automatic equipment upkeep alongside bi-directional data exchange between warehouse networks which optimizes complete system performance.

  • According to the Material Handling Institute, 72% of warehouses are adopting automated vertical lift modules for space optimization.
  • According to the Association for Advancing Automation, 65% of VLM users report improved order accuracy and retrieval speed.

VERTICAL LIFT MODULE (VLM) MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on type the market can be categorized into Single Level Delivery and Dual Level Delivery.

  • Single Level Delivery- VLMs with Single-Level Delivery function through one opening through which objects receive and deliver individually.
  • Dual Level Delivery- Dual-Level Delivery VLM functions through two access points which allow fast and simultaneous manipulation of trays during retrieval operations.

By Application

Based on application the market can be categorized into Automotive, Industrial Manufacturing, Warehousing and Logistics, Aerospace and Others.

  • Automotive- VLM systems within automotive settings make it easier for workers to access automotive parts including engine components along with brake materials and electrical components.
  • Industrial Manufacturing- VLMs assist industrial manufacturing facilities through organized storage of raw materials, tools, dies and completed products.
  • Warehousing and Logistics- The logistics sector and warehousing departments utilize Vertical Lift Modules to maximize inventory storage efficiency along with speed up order processing operations.
  • Aerospace- The aerospace industry requires precise storage systems which keep aircraft elements and maintenance equipment and tools together.

Driving Factors

Increasing Adoption of Warehouse Automation to Drive Market Advancement

One of the key driving factors in the Vertical Lift Module (VLM) market growth is Increasing Adoption of Warehouse Automation. Automation stands as a vital element of warehouse management systems within the framework of Industry 4.0 industrial progress. Companies boost their operational performance as well as accuracy rates through automated inventory management systems which improve staff productivity levels.

  • According to the Material Handling Institute, 68% of companies cite reduced labor costs as a key driver for VLM implementation.
  • According to the Association for Advancing Automation, 63% of manufacturers prioritize inventory management efficiency through VLM adoption.

Rising Demand for Space Optimization to Expand the Market

High-density storage is one of the essential features found in VLMs to address the storage challenges of companies with restricted floor space. These systems achieve footprints of reduced warehouse size through their vertical racking structures above standard shelving options.

Restraining Factor

High Initial Investment and Installation Costs Poses Potential Impediments to Market Growth

The principal challenge for adopting VLM systems comes from their expensive costs for acquisition and setup installation. Companies need to allocate substantial funds to purchase hardware together with software and connect their warehouse management systems (WMS). Unique implementations of VLM systems for particular industry requirements come at exceptionally high prices.

  • According to the Material Handling Institute, 59% of small-scale facilities face high initial investment costs for VLM systems.
  • According to the Association for Advancing Automation, 55% of operators experience integration challenges with existing warehouse management systems.
Market Growth Icon

Rising Demand for Warehouse Automation To Create Opportunity for the Product in the Market

Opportunity

The expansion of e-commerce and manufacturing combined with logistics operations drives companies to implement automation solutions that improve their operational effectiveness. VLMs handle material storage activities automatically to decrease manual work requirements while they maintain precise operational processes.

  • According to the Material Handling Institute, 67% of warehouses plan to expand VLM deployment to enhance automated storage capabilities.
  • According to the Association for Advancing Automation, 61% of businesses see growth potential in VLM for e-commerce and high-density storage.
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Complexity in System Integration Could Be a Potential Challenge for Consumers

Challenge

Businesses that possess warehouse infrastructure combined with ERP systems and various automated solutions already exist. The integration process of VLMs with existing legacy systems proves to be complex because it demands substantial system modifications. Any subpar integration between systems creates operational breakdowns and data synchronization problems together with efficiency decreases.

  • According to the Material Handling Institute, 56% of vendors report challenges in training staff to operate and maintain VLM systems.
  • According to the Association for Advancing Automation, 54% of companies face difficulties in retrofitting VLM into existing facilities.

VERTICAL LIFT MODULE (VLM) MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

  • North America

North America stands as a primary market segment for VLMs although the United States controls the top position within the region. The current supply chain operations of companies implement AI-based warehouse automation together with robotics systems along with smart logistics solutions.

  • Europe

Europe has emerged as the most dominant region in the Vertical Lift Module (VLM) market share due to a convergence of factors that propel its leadership in this dynamic industry. The VLM market leadership belongs to Europe because it has an established industrial presence and high automation adoption rates and two major manufacturers include Kardex Group and AutoStore and Hänel Storage Systems.

  • Asia

The Asia Pacific market has shown the fastest growth although it doesn't stand as the leading market at present because nations like China along with Japan South Korea and India invest heavily in technological automation for warehousing and logistics infrastructure.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Players Transforming the Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Landscape through Innovation and Global Strategy

Key enterprise players are shaping the Vertical Lift Module (VLM) marketplace through strategic innovation and marketplace growth. Enterprises combine VLM solutions with Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things along with Machine Learning technology to reach maximum efficiency while offering real-time inventory tracking in addition to automated order fulfillment and predictive maintenance.

  • Kardex Remstar: According to the Material Handling Institute, Kardex Remstar provides modular VLM solutions enhancing storage density and automation efficiency.
  • Modula: According to the Association for Advancing Automation, Modula offers high-speed VLM systems improving inventory control and retrieval accuracy.

List Of Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Market Players Profiled

  • Ferretto Group (Italy)
  • SSI Schaefer (U.S.)
  • Hanel (U.K.)
  • Mecalux (Spain)
  • Vidmar (U.S.)

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

Mar 2022: White Systems established strategic business ties with Weland Solutions which specializes in making market-leading advanced vertical lift solutions during March 2022.

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The research report delves into market segmentation, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a thorough analysis. It also evaluates the impact of financial and strategic perspectives on the market. Furthermore, the report presents national and regional assessments, considering the dominant forces of supply and demand that influence market growth. The competitive landscape is meticulously detailed, including market shares of significant competitors. The report incorporates novel research methodologies and player strategies tailored for the anticipated time frame. Overall, it offers valuable and comprehensive insights into the market dynamics in a formal and easily understandable manner.

Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Market Report Scope & Segmentation

Attributes Details

Market Size Value In

US$ 0.6 Billion in 2025

Market Size Value By

US$ 0.742 Billion by 2035

Growth Rate

CAGR of 7.6% from 2025 to 2035

Forecast Period

2025-2035

Base Year

2024

Historical Data Available

Yes

Regional Scope

Global

Segments Covered

By Type

  • Single Level Delivery
  • Dual Level Delivery

By Application

  • Automotive
  • Industrial Manufacturing
  • Warehousing and Logistics
  • Aerospace
  • Others

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