Automated storage system (ASRS) consists of three-dimensional shelves, stacker cranes, automatic telescopic forks, automatic control system, computerized monitoring system, computerized management system and other auxiliary equipment. Using advanced integrated logistics concept, advanced control, bus, communication and information technology, through the coordinated action of the above equipment, according to the user's needs, to complete the automatic, orderly, fast, accurate and efficient warehousing and discharging operations of the designated goods.

In an automated three-dimensional warehouse system, stacker cranes are one of the core equipments, which are composed of frames (upper beams, lower beams and columns), horizontal traveling mechanisms, lifting mechanisms, loading platforms, automatic telescopic forks and electrical control systems.

As a very important lifting and handling equipment, stacker cranes can move goods from one place to another by fully automatic operation. For example, it runs along the track in the aisle of a high-rise racking warehouse, storing the goods at the entrance of the aisle into the cargo compartment; or removing the goods in the cargo compartment and transporting them to the entrance of the aisle to complete the warehousing operation.

Compared to other material handling equipment, stacker cranes have a lower initial cost. Battery-powered electrical equipment has very low operating costs compared to diesel, natural gas, and LPG-run electrical equipment. Traveling electric stacker cranes do not emit polluting fumes or any noise. This makes them suitable even for indoor material handling requirements. Low energy consumption is their next attraction. They produce very little carbon emissions. Stacker cranes are highly mobile by nature and most of them work well even in compact spaces, which helps in increasing warehouse capacity. They have a wide operator field of view because of the small size of the operator.

Stacker cranes are characterized by high efficiency, high warehouse utilization, high automation, and high equipment stability. It has been widely used in machinery manufacturing, textile industry, automobile manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and other fields.