DC Motors for Automated Storage and Retrieval System

Looking for the right motors to drive your automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS)?
Dunkermotoren delivers high-performance BLDC Gearmotors, Brushed DC Motors, and Linear Actuators engineered specifically for demanding ASRS environments.

  • Precision You Can Count On: Achieve smooth, accurate motion control for fast and reliable storage and retrieval. Our motors are built for precision, helping your system operate with minimal error and maximum consistency.
  • Boost Throughput and Efficiency:  Accelerate cycle times and increase system productivity with motors designed for high-speed operation and long-term reliability. Keep your ASRS running at peak performance with minimal downtime.
  • Built for Versatility: From warehouse logistics and manufacturing to retail inventory and pharmaceutical storage, our motors are proven across a wide range of ASRS applications. Whatever your environment, we’ve got a solution that fits.
  • Engineered for Reliability: Our motors are optimized for energy efficiency and low maintenance, helping you reduce operating costs while maintaining continuous uptime - even in tough industrial conditions.
Shuttle System powered with dunkermotoren

Customization and Support

At Dunkermotoren, we know that no two automation systems are alike. That’s why we offer flexible customization and expert support to help you get the most out of your motor technology. Whether you're building high-speed ASRS systems or precision robotic shuttles, our team is ready to help you configure motors that deliver peak performance and reliability.

  • Custom DC Motor Solutions for ASRS Applications: Our engineering team specializes in tailoring DC motors to meet the specific demands of automated storage and retrieval systems. From shaft modifications to custom cabling, connectors, and IP-rated protection, we ensure your motor integrates seamlessly into your design.

  • Precision Gearboxes for Scalable Performance: We offer a full range of planetary and right-angle gearboxes designed to match all motor sizes. These gearboxes are built for durability and precision, making them ideal for shuttle systems and other dynamic automation environments.

  • Smart Motors with Integrated Electronics: Boost your system’s intelligence with motors that feature built-in electronics for advanced control and high power density. Our integrated solutions simplify wiring and reduce footprint while enhancing overall system efficiency.

  • Plug-and-Play Interface Compatibility: Our motors support leading industrial protocols including Ethernet/IP, CANopen, EtherCAT, and PROFINETThis ensures fast, hassle-free integration into your existing automation architecture.
head set blue headphone
Talk to an Expert and Configure Your Perfect Motor Solution Today!
Get a free consultation to discuss your specific needs and find the best solution for your application.
Contact Us

Motors for Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS)

Our Motors in Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS)

At Dunkermotoren, we provide high-performance motors that power a wide range of robotic shuttle systems. Our motors deliver precision, reliability, and efficiency, ensuring optimal performance in various ASRS applications. Below, we explore different types of ASRS and how our motors play a crucial role in their operation.

Unit Load ASRS

Unit load ASRS systems are built to move large, heavy items like pallets and containers with speed and precision. Dunkermotoren motors are engineered to handle these demanding applications, delivering smooth, reliable motion that maximizes warehouse space utilization and streamlines inventory management. Our solutions are ideal for high-density storage environments where uptime, throughput, and accuracy are critical.


Talk To An Expert

Unit Load system powered by dunkermotoren bldc motors

Mini Load ASRS powerd by dunkermotoren

Mini Load ASRS

Mini load ASRS systems are designed to handle smaller items like boxes, totes, and bins with speed and accuracy. Dunkermotoren motors deliver the precision and responsiveness needed for high-efficiency picking and order fulfillment. Ideal for fast-paced environments such as e-commerce, retail distribution, and pharmaceutical logistics, our motion solutions help streamline operations, reduce errors, and keep inventory moving.


Talk To An Expert


Carousel-Based Systems ASRS

Carousel-based ASRS systems use rotating shelves or bins to maximize vertical and horizontal storage density while speeding up item retrieval. Dunkermotoren motors power these systems with high efficiency and precision, ensuring smooth rotation and dependable performance. Designed for continuous operation in space-constrained environments, our motors help optimize footprint, reduce retrieval times, and improve overall system uptime.


Talk To An Expert

Carousel based store system powered with bldc motors from dunkermotoren

Vertical Lift Module powered by dunkermotoren bldc

Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs)

Vertical lift modules are designed to maximize vertical space by storing items in stacked trays that move up and down for fast, ergonomic access. Dunkermotoren motors deliver smooth, precise tray movement to support high-speed, high-accuracy storage and retrieval. Ideal for manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution centers, our motion solutions help improve throughput, reduce labor strain, and optimize facility layout.


Talk To An Expert



Two-Way/ Four-Way Shuttles ASRS

Four-way shuttle systems offer flexible, multidirectional movement within ASRS environments, enabling fast, adaptive storage and retrieval across complex warehouse layouts. Dunkermotoren motors deliver the power, precision, and control needed to drive these shuttles reliably - supporting high-speed navigation, tight positioning, and scalable system performance. Perfect for facilities that demand agility and space optimization, our motors help future-proof your automation infrastructure.


Talk To An Expert

Four Way Shuttles utilizing dunkermotoren bldc motors

Cube Storage System with dunkermotoren bldc motors

Robotic Cube Storage ASRS

Robotic cube storage ASRS systems are built for rapid bin handling within dense, grid-based layouts. Dunkermotoren motors power key robotic functions - including wheel drives, lift mechanisms, grippers, and directional controls - delivering precise navigation, smooth lifting, and secure container handling. Designed for high-throughput automated warehouses, our motion solutions help maximize storage density, accelerate order fulfillment, and support scalable, space-efficient operations.


More Details

Why Dunker Motors Are the Smart Choice for ASRS

Dunkermotoren motors are engineered to elevate the performance of automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), especially in robotic shuttle applications. With advanced features designed for demanding industrial environments, our motors deliver measurable benefits across efficiency, reliability, and scalability.

  • Precision and Reliability: Achieve accurate, repeatable motion in high-speed operations. Our motors provide tight control and dependable performance, minimizing errors and maximizing uptime.
  • Energy Efficiency: Built for continuous operation, our motors reduce energy consumption and lower operating costs—without compromising on power or speed.
  • Low Maintenance Design: Robust construction and advanced engineering mean fewer service interruptions. Our motors are built to last, helping you cut maintenance costs and keep operations running smoothly.
  • Seamless System Integration: With support for industrial protocols like Ethernet/IP, CANopen, EtherCAT, and PROFINET, our motors integrate easily into existing ASRS architectures - saving time and simplifying deployment.
  • Scalable Architecture: Our modular motor systems grow with your needs. Whether you're expanding capacity or adding new devices, Dunkermotoren makes it easy to scale your ASRS infrastructure.
  • Real-Time Monitoring: Gain visibility into motor performance with built-in monitoring capabilities. Access operational data to support proactive decision-making and system optimization.
  • Predictive Maintenance: Stay ahead of potential issues with predictive diagnostics. Our motors help identify wear and performance trends before they impact productivity.
  • Built-In Safety Functions: Features like Safe Torque Off (STO) support compliance with safety standards and enable use in safety-critical environments - protecting both equipment and personnel.

nexoLink: Smart Connectivity for Smarter Motion

nexoLink transforms Dunkermotoren motors into intelligent, connected components of your industrial IoT ecosystem. With built-in connectivity, monitoring, and control capabilities, nexoLink empowers engineers and factory managers to optimize motor performance, reduce downtime, and streamline operations - all from a centralized, user-friendly interface.

Key Benefits of nexoLink

  • Zero Downtime: Real-time monitoring and predictive diagnostics help identify issues before they impact operations - keeping your ASRS systems running without interruption.
  • Max Productivity: Centralized control and streamlined cabling simplify motor integration and improve motion precision, boosting overall system efficiency.
  • Greater Value for Your Customers: Remote access and seamless integration enhance system flexibility, scalability, and responsiveness - delivering smarter automation solutions.
  • Operational Efficiency from Anywhere: Engineers can remotely monitor, adjust, and optimize motor parameters - reducing on-site service needs and speeding up troubleshooting.
  • Lower Integration Costs: nexoLink promotes interoperability and simplifies system upgrades, helping reduce engineering time and integration expenses.

Effortless Connectivity with nexoLink

Factory managers can use nexoLink to monitor motor performance in real time, receive alerts for anomalies, and remotely fine-tune motor settings - all through a unified dashboard. Integration is simple and scalable, with support for nexofox digital tools like:

  • Digital Twin
  • Predictive Maintenance
  • Smart DriveManager
  • Smart Diagnostics

How to Select the Right Motor for Your ASRS System

Choosing the right motor for your automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) is critical to achieving optimal performance, reliability, and long-term efficiency. Follow these practical steps to ensure your motor selection aligns with your application needs.


Step 1: Define the Application Requirements

Start by identifying the key operational demands of your ASRS:

  • Load capacity: Consider the weight and size of totes, bins, or pallets.
  • Speed and throughput: Target fast, efficient storage and retrieval cycles.
  • Environmental conditions: Account for temperature, humidity, and dust levels.
  • Space constraints: Choose compact motors for tight installation areas.
  • Power supply and voltage: Match available voltage (12V / 24V / 48V DC).
Common Pitfall: Overlooking environmental or space limitations can lead to performance issues or installation challenges.

Step 2: Determine the Motor Specifications

Translate your application needs into technical motor specs:

  • Torque and power requirements: Ensure sufficient torque for heavy loads.
  • Speed and acceleration: Support rapid movement and positioning.
  • Duty cycle and load profile: Match motor to continuous or intermittent operation.
  • Control and feedback options: Use encoders for precise positioning.
  • Mounting and installation considerations: Opt for compact, easy-to-install designs.
Common Pitfall: Failing to match motor specifications with application requirements, leading to thermal overload or overdimensioned motors. 

Step 3: Evaluate Advanced Features

Enhance system performance with smart motor capabilities:

  • Real-time monitoring and diagnostics: Track motor health and performance.
  • Predictive maintenance capabilities: Prevent failures before they happen.
  • System Compatibility : Ensure seamless integration with existing infrastructure.
  • Remote control and access: Adjust motor parameters from anywhere.
  • Energy efficiency: Lower operating costs and reduce downtime.
Common Pitfall: Ignoring advanced features can limit long-term scalability and ROI. 

Step 4: Choose the Right Motor Type 

Select the motor type that best fits your ASRS application:

Common Pitfall: Choosing a motor type without aligning it to specific application needs. 
 

Step 5 (Optional): Leverage Smart Connectivity with nexoLink

Upgrade your motor systems with nexoLink for intelligent, connected motion:

  • Zero downtime with real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance: Ensuring continuous operation.
  • Enhanced productivity and operational efficiency: Optimizing motion control and reducing cabling.
  • Seamless integration and remote access capabilities: Enhancing system flexibility and scalability.
  • Improved safety and scalability: Identifying potential hazards early and supporting system growth.
Common Pitfall: Overlooking smart connectivity can limit system visibility and responsiveness. 

Step 6: Consult with Dunkermotoren Experts

Need help selecting the right motor? Our team is here to guide you. Whether you're optimizing a high-speed shuttle system or designing a compact VLM, Dunkermotoren experts can recommend the ideal motor solution tailored to your application.

Common Pitfall: Skipping expert consultation can lead to suboptimal performance and costly redesigns.

Talk To An Expert


By following these steps, you can select the right motor for Automated Storage & Retrieval System, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and reliability.

Your Experts at Dunkermotoren:

Michael Basler

Michael Basler

Key Account Manager Industrial Automation

Dunkermotoren GmbH
Allmendstraße 11
79848 Bonndorf, Germany

Matthias Tidelski

Matthias Tidelski

Key Account Manager Industrial Automation

Dunkermotoren GmbH
Allmendstraße 11
79848 Bonndorf, Germany

Mail Icon