Systems and methods for lifting and descending payload shuttles with high throughput and a reduced footprint

Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed for shuttle lift systems to facilitate simultaneous movement of multiple shuttles across a multi-level storage structure that stores packages. The shuttle lift system may include the multi-level storage structure and a tower lift system at each end of the multi-level storage structure. One tower lift system may raise shuttles to a level of the multi-level storage structure. The other tower lift system may lower shuttles to a level of the multi-level storage structure and/or to a delivery area. The tower lift system may include cables (e.g., tethers) that are supported by a bottom portion and an upper portion of the tower lift system. Shelves may be attached to the cables on either side of the tower lift system and may receive and move shuttles up/down the tower lift system. The tower lift system may have high shuttle throughput and a reduced footprint.