Vertical Lift Modules Help Midwest Manufacturers Recover Warehouse Space and Improve Efficiency

Tier 1 MRO Helps Companies Improve Inventory Control and Warehouse Automation Through Vertical Storage and Automated Storage Systems

OXFORD, Ohio, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As manufacturers across the Midwest continue to face labor shortages and rising warehouse costs, many are turning to automation technologies to increase efficiency without expanding their facilities. One solution gaining significant traction is the Vertical Lift Module (VLM)—a high-density automated storage system designed to dramatically improve space utilization and picking productivity.

Tier 1 MRO, an Ohio-based provider of custom inventory control and warehouse automation solutions, reports a growing number of manufacturers adopting VLM technology to streamline operations and maximize existing facility space.

Many companies assume they need to expand their building when they run out of storage, said Mike Sheff, Chief Executive Officer at Tier 1 MRO. In reality, most warehouses are only utilizing a fraction of their vertical space. VLM systems allow companies to recover thousands of square feet while improving picking speed and inventory control.

Vertical Lift Modules operate by automatically delivering trays of stored items to an ergonomic access window, eliminating the need for workers to walk long distances through shelving aisles. By utilizing vertical ceiling height rather than floor space, companies can reduce storage footprints while significantly increasing operational efficiency.

Manufacturers implementing VLM systems often report up to 90% reduction in storage footprint, 2–3x faster picking speeds, improved inventory accuracy and traceability, reduced worker fatigue, and better control of maintenance inventory.

Tier 1 MRO provides a range of advanced inventory control and warehouse automation solutions designed to improve operational efficiency and parts availability for manufacturers and maintenance organizations. These solutions include Vertical Lift Modules, smart vending machines, and RFID tracking technologies that help companies gain real-time visibility into critical spare parts, tooling, and maintenance inventory.

Demand for warehouse automation and vertical lift module systems continues to rise as manufacturers seek solutions to labor shortages and rising facility costs.

About Tier 1 MRO
Tier 1 MRO provides custom inventory control and warehouse automation solutions, including vertical lift modules, automated storage systems, smart vending machines, and RFID inventory tracking for manufacturers and distribution operations throughout the Midwest.

Media Contact:

Dana Bowling

5139245659

[email protected]

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SOURCE Tier1MRO