Vertical lift modules (VLMs) are a significant investment. Keeping them running smoothly takes more than smart design. It takes smart maintenance.
Like any high-performance equipment in your warehouse, VLMs need regular attention to perform at their best. Vertical lift module maintenance isn't just about preventing breakdowns. It's also about maximizing uptime, maintaining accuracy, and protecting your bottom line.
With 22 years of maintenance experience, Nathan brings a wealth of industry knowledge about how to get the most ROI from your machine through proper maintenance.
“Our goal is to keep every Kardex system performing like the day it was installed,” says St. Pierre. “That consistency is what our customers rely on.”
What sets Kardex apart is its partnership with its customers, ensuring their investment reaps benefits for years after purchase with regularly scheduled upkeep and support.
In this article, we’ll detail what vertical lift module maintenance entails and how to set your system up for decades of reliable performance.
Ready to dive in? Let's get started.
If you’re considering buying a vertical lift module, you are probably wondering about how often it requires regular maintenance. We have great news. When you purchase from Kardex, your role in VLM maintenance is minimal.
Your local Kardex service team keeps track of your service history and schedules visits with you. You don't need to remember when service is due. It's all managed for you.
But how often will your VLM need maintenance? The answer is: it depends.
Your usage intensity does affect your maintenance needs. For light-duty, single-shift operations, bi-annual visits may be all you need.
If you're running three shifts or operating around the clock, Kardex typically suggests a 24/7 after-hours support contract.
Many high-intensity operations also purchase a spare parts package to keep on-site, which significantly reduces downtime when a quick fix is needed.
A key advantage of the Kardex Shuttle design is that when maintenance is up to date and the machine is used within specification, there are few wear items. The components that do require regular inspection include tray shoes and door glides, far fewer than you'd see with traditional storage systems.
"Provided maintenance is up to date and the machine is used within specification, wear parts are minimal," notes St. Pierre "That's one of the big advantages of our design."
Keeping your vertical lift module running well means taking a proactive approach. It helps you catch potential issues during scheduled maintenance rather than discovering them when a system stops working during your busiest shift.
Our service visits are designed with your specific operations in mind, whether you run around the clock, or have unique operational requirements.
"Every visit is about prevention," explains St. Pierre. "We're looking for the small signs of wear before they turn into downtime."
During a typical VLM service visit, a Kardex Lifecycle Services technician performs a comprehensive check that includes:
Not all VLMs are created equal when it comes to serviceability.
The Kardex Shuttle VLM features several design elements that make vertical lift module maintenance simpler.
"The belt-driven design isn't just quieter, it's cleaner and easier to maintain than a traditional chain," explains St. Pierre. "That means faster service visits and less downtime."
Our VLM maintenance packages were designed to maximize your system’s longevity and provide help when needed. Plus, you’ll have access to Kardex’s global network of highly skilled technicians, ready to support you 24/7.
“Our service plans are about flexibility,” notes St. Pierre. “Customers can choose the level of coverage that fits their workload, budget, and operational demands.”
Kardex offers two core service packages designed to match different operational needs and budgets.
This plan works well for operations with lighter usage patterns or in-house technical capabilities.
Full Care provides complete peace of mind for operations where downtime directly impacts revenue, or for teams that prefer predictable service costs.
For the most up-to-date service packages, visit our Service Portfolio page. Or, reach out to us via Chat.
Kardex Life Cycle Services go beyond routine maintenance to provide an ongoing partnership. After each VLM maintenance visit is completed, you'll also receive the service ticket and completed checklist via email, documentation that's critical for facilities with quality certifications or audit requirements.
Between VLM maintenance visits, integration with Kardex Connect and Kardex Analytics gives you real-time system monitoring, performance data, and predictive maintenance insights. This means if any issues arise, they can be flagged before they cause downtime.
Optional lifecycle support, like spare parts kits, operator training, extended warranty coverage, and system upgrades helps you keep your system running efficiently as your operation evolves.
"Maintenance isn't just about fixing, it's about planning," says St. Pierre. "With tools like Kardex Connect, we can predict issues before they cause downtime."
From maintenance to modernization, Kardex Life Cycle Services can help you reach your operational goals.
A well-maintained VLM is an asset that performs like new for decades. With the right maintenance approach, you're not just preventing problems, you're ensuring consistency, safety, and operational efficiency year after year.
"A Kardex system is built to last. Our job is to make sure it stays that way. With the right maintenance, these machines can run efficiently for decades."
Ready to learn more about maintenance options for your operation?
Visit the Kardex Customer Care page or reach out to your local Kardex team to discuss service plans that fit your facility's needs.