Stacker cranes: A stacker crane is an automated storage machine that moves along an aisle to place and retrieve loads in high-bay racking.
How it works
A stacker crane runs on a rail along the floor of a storage aisle and is guided at the top by an upper rail. A mast carries a lifting carriage, and a load-handling device on the carriage moves a pallet or container between the rack and the crane.
A warehouse control system sends each task to the crane controller, which plans the travel and lift movements. The crane positions itself at the rack opening, transfers the load and returns to a handover point.
Types
Single-mast cranes suit lighter loads and moderate heights. Double-mast cranes carry heavier loads and higher lifts with greater rigidity. Cranes are also grouped by load unit, such as pallet, tote or long load, and by the load-handling device, such as telescopic forks or a shuttle.
Key specifications
| Parameter | What it affects | Value or range | Source and conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Load capacity (kg) | Sets the heaviest unit load the crane is rated to carry | Demo range: 500 to 2,500 | Demo data, not from a datasheet |
| Travel speed (m/s) | Affects cycle time along the aisle | Demo range: 1 to 4 | Demo data, not from a datasheet |
| Lift speed (m/s) | Affects cycle time at the rack face | Demo range: 0.3 to 1 | Demo data, not from a datasheet |
| Maximum rack height | Sets the storage height the crane can serve | Demo range: 12 to 40 | Demo data, not from a datasheet |
| Load-handling device (type) | Sets which load units and rack types can be served | Telescopic forks or shuttle (demo) | Demo data, not from a datasheet |
Selection criteria
- Load unit: dimensions, weight and condition of the pallet or container
- Required throughput: cycles per hour at the aisle length and rack height
- Rack height, aisle length and the limits of the building
- Single or double-deep storage and the handling device it needs
- Integration with the warehouse control system and safety systems
- Service coverage and spare parts availability in Australia
Sources and review
- References
- Demo reference: manufacturer datasheet (placeholder) (checked 2026-11-07)
- Demo reference: relevant standard (placeholder) (checked 2026-11-07)
- Last reviewed
- Not yet reviewed
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FAQ
What is the difference between a single-mast and a double-mast stacker crane?
A single-mast crane has one vertical mast and suits lighter loads and lower heights. A double-mast crane has two masts, which gives more stiffness for heavier loads and greater heights. Which one fits depends on the load, the height and the supplier’s design limits.
How is the load capacity of a stacker crane specified?
Capacity is the heaviest unit load the crane is rated to carry. Check the model, the load dimensions and centre of gravity, and the conditions the rating applies to, because the rating can depend on them.
What affects the cycle time of a stacker crane?
Travel and lift speed, acceleration, aisle length, rack height, the handling device and how tasks are sequenced all affect cycle time. Compare cycle times only when the aisle length, height and load are the same.
What should I ask a supplier before I decide?
Ask which model and revision the figures describe, the conditions they were measured under, which standards apply and for what scope, and what local support and spares are available.