Introduction
When automating your warehouse, choosing between Four-Way Shuttles and Stacker Cranes is critical. Both handle material movement but differ fundamentally. Tianjin Master compares their technology, ideal use cases, and ROI to guide your decision.
1. Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Four-Way Shuttle | Stacker Crane |
|---|---|---|
| Mobility | Moves bidirectionally on X/Y axes within rack channels | Travels on fixed X/Y tracks |
| System Design | Multiple shuttles + lifts | Single machine operation |
| Max Load | 500kg~1500kg (standard pallets) | 500kg~2000kg+ (heavy pallets) |
| Rack Height | Optimal for ≤15m medium-height racks | Designed for 10m~45m+ AS/RS |
| Flexibility | Scale by adding shuttles, dynamic routing | Single point of failure |
2. Which Solution Fits Your Needs?
▸ Choose Four-Way Shuttles If You Need:
High Scalability: Handle SKU variety & order peaks (e.g., e-commerce)
Dense Storage: 85%+ space utilization with narrow aisles
"Goods-to-Person" Picking: Integrate with workstations (pharma, books)
Our Case: 40 shuttles boosted picking efficiency by 220% in a medical warehouse
▸ Choose Stacker Cranes If You Need:
Ultra-High Speed: 60+ pallets/hour at 5m/s line speed
Maximize Cube Storage: 25m+ high bays storing 10,000+ pallets
Heavy Load Handling: Automotive parts, raw materials
*Tianjin Master Project: 32m AS/RS with 2-ton cranes for an auto plant*
3. Hybrid Systems: The Best of Both Worlds
❗ Not an either-or choice! Large facilities combine both:
High Bay Zone: Stacker cranes for bulk pallet handling
Mid/Low Zone: Shuttles for case picking & buffering
Tianjin Master hybrid system tripled throughput for a global 3PL
4. Why Partner with Tianjin Master?
We deliver scenario-optimized solutions:
Shuttle Range: Standard/Cold Chain/Explosion-proof, ±1mm positioning
Crane Series: Single/Double Mast, speed 1~5m/s configurable
AI Scheduling: Real-time multi-equipment coordination
→ Get a Free Warehouse Layout Analysis
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