Stacker/retriever with overhead rack entry vehicle for palletless storage

The present invention provides an improved stacking and retrieving warehouse system that eliminates the use of expensive pallets. A storage and retrieval machine moves along floor tracks and top guide tubes between the racks in a warehouse. A carriage platform moves vertically along vertical masts of the storage and retrieval machine until it is aligned with the rack to be entered. Rails within the carriage align with rails within the racks, allowing the wheels of the rack entry vehicle to pass from the storage and retrieval machine into the racks. Vertical arms suspended from a lifting/lowering horizontal support member pack up goods stored on a pedestal within the racks. The good are picked up from the racks by the vertical arms of the rack entry vehicle and deposited on a pedestal within the carriage. The storage and retrieval machine transports the goods to a location to be deposited, stored, retrieved or unloaded. The present invention eliminates the need for pallets and the attendant additional equipment required by the use of pallets, resulting in a more efficient and inexpensive storage system.