AutoStore

AutoStore is a warehouse automation system that combines cube storage with robotics and fulfillment software. It best suits large operations investing in goods-to-person automation, especially networks that need to coordinate multiple sites. Its configurable storage grid and software breadth are compelling, but the infrastructure investment and partner-led delivery make it a substantial commitment.

Overview

AutoStore brings together a Controller, Robots, an aluminum Grid, storage Bins and workstation Ports. The Grid can be laid out around a warehouse’s available floor space, including corners and obstacles such as pillars, pipes and walls. That flexibility can help fit automation into an existing building, though it does not make the system a lightweight software-only purchase: fixed infrastructure and a configured project are central to the offering.

AutoStore says it has more than 2,000 systems in nearly 68 countries. Systems are distributed, designed, installed and serviced through qualified system integrator partners, so buyers should expect a partner-led project rather than direct, self-service deployment.

Key features

Robot coordination and analytics

CubeControl coordinates system operations and robot traffic, while AutoStore Intelligence uses historical and operational data to optimize routing. CubeAnalytics adds system-status monitoring, predictive outlier information, module performance trends and dashboards. Together, these tools address both day-to-day coordination and operational visibility; the value will be greatest for sites with enough system activity to make monitoring and routing optimization consequential.

Integrations and multi-site fulfillment

Open APIs and standard interfaces are intended to connect AutoStore with existing WMS, ERP and order-management systems, as well as third-party hardware. Qubit Fulfillment Platform extends the offer to complex, large-scale enterprise networks, with multi-site order management, order batching, pick-and-pack workflows, replenishment and inventory tracking that includes lot and expiration control. That scope makes Qubit relevant to organizations managing fulfillment across sites, rather than buyers seeking only a standalone storage installation.

AutoStore says its Intelligence software trains on aggregated operational and simulation data, not customer inventory data. It also says independent organizations evaluate and certify its devices, and its product approval process covers 19 areas. Ports have safety features that vary by model and are intended for trained personnel, so site teams must account for model-specific safety procedures.

Pricing

AutoStore is paid, with custom pricing. The two buying models differ in how the investment is structured:

• AutoStore system: A custom warehouse automation system with fixed infrastructure and project configuration, sold, designed, installed and serviced through system integrator partners. This fits buyers prepared to scope and fund a configured infrastructure project; it is not a published-price software subscription.
• Performance per Pick (PPP): A recurring fee per pick, with monthly fees adjusting to volume. It still requires upfront investment in fixed Grid infrastructure and typically has a 3–5 year minimum term, plus a flat monthly minimum fee based on operating Robots and Ports. The volume-linked fee may suit buyers seeking charges tied to throughput, but the minimum commitment and infrastructure spend limit flexibility.

Neither model has a published price, so buyers should compare a custom project quote with the PPP minimums and term before choosing.

Platforms

AutoStore lists API access and cloud deployment. It supports goods-to-person orchestration, multi-site management and simulation tools. Those capabilities suit operations integrating automation into a broader warehouse technology stack, rather than teams seeking a conventional standalone desktop or mobile app.

Who it's for

AutoStore is best for warehouse operators with substantial fulfillment needs, the appetite to invest in fixed storage infrastructure and access to an integrator partner. Qubit makes the broader package particularly relevant to enterprise networks coordinating several fulfillment sites. A smaller operation, a buyer seeking a quick software-only deployment or a business unwilling to accept a multi-year PPP commitment should look elsewhere.

Pros and cons

• Pros: The Grid can be configured around warehouse obstacles, offering flexibility within existing floor plans.
• Pros: Robot coordination, routing optimization and operational analytics cover both system execution and monitoring.
• Pros: Qubit includes multi-site workflows and inventory controls for complex enterprise fulfillment.
• Cons: Fixed Grid infrastructure requires upfront investment, including under PPP.
• Cons: PPP typically commits buyers for 3–5 years and carries a monthly minimum fee tied to operating Robots and Ports.
• Cons: Deployment and service depend on qualified system integrator partners, not a direct self-managed rollout.

Alternatives

Browse Warehouse Robotics Software for more options in the category. InOrbit Space Intelligence is worth considering when a free plan matters; its Premium Support is $3,000 a month with a 1-year commitment. Geek+ RMS is another paid option, with API and self-hosted platforms. Rologi Automation Suite is a paid web-based alternative.

LocusONE may suit buyers who prefer a Robots-as-a-Service subscription that includes robot technology, software, support, updates, maintenance and operational optimization. GreyMatter offers paid Pro, Premium and Power plans with custom pricing. HaiQ is another paid alternative. Exotec Skypod System is a paid warehouse automation option with pricing available by contacting Exotec. inVia Logic offers a paid software-only subscription, making it a point of comparison for buyers considering software without AutoStore’s fixed Grid infrastructure.

Verdict

Choose AutoStore if you need configurable cube storage, coordinated goods-to-person robotics and fulfillment software for a high-volume warehouse or multi-site enterprise network. Its strongest case is the combination of adaptable infrastructure and operational software, including Qubit’s multi-site capabilities. Look elsewhere if fixed-infrastructure investment, partner-led implementation or PPP’s typical 3–5 year minimum term does not fit your operation.