Integrated Vertical Transport Solutions for Dealership Parts and Showroom Operations

Two VRC systems optimize dealership operations and vehicle flow – Freight lite and Mechanical 4 Post

As part of a new state-of-the-art dealership in Long Beach, California, Fletcher Jones Porsche set out to create a facility that maximized space, efficiency, and customer experience.

This project was brought to Autoquip through our trusted dealer partner, McKinley Equipment Corporation, who worked closely with the dealership to identify and implement the right vertical lifting solutions.

To support both back-of-house operations and front-of-house presentation, the dealership required two distinct vertical lifting solutions:

• A reliable system for parts storage and inventory flow
• A high-capacity lift for vehicle transport to an elevated showroom

Autoquip delivered a coordinated solution using two tailored Vertical Reciprocating Conveyor (VRC) systems—each designed to meet the unique demands of its environment.

The Challenge

Designing a multi-level dealership introduced several key challenges:

• Efficiently moving parts inventory from receiving to upper-level storage
• Transporting vehicles safely and seamlessly into a second-level showroom
• Maintaining clean, accessible loading conditions for both staff and vehicles
• Ensuring high safety standards across two very different applications
• Integrating both systems into a new construction footprint with space constraints

Parts Department Lift – Freight Lite VRC (FLT-165-0015)

For the parts department, Autoquip installed a Freight Lite hydraulic VRC designed for efficient, day-to-day material handling.

Key Features:

• Travel: 144”
• Capacity: 1,500 lbs
• Platform Size: 72” x 72”
• Pit-mounted design for smooth cart and pallet jack loading
• Vertical bi-panel interlocked gate (lower level)
• Bi-swing interlocked gate (upper level)
• Upper-level back panel enclosure for added load protection

Application Impact:
This system allows staff to quickly transfer incoming parts to upper-level inventory, improving workflow while reducing manual handling and congestion on the main floor.

Showroom Vehicle Lift – 4-Post Mechanical VRC (FM4-144-0060)

To support the elevated showroom experience, Autoquip installed a 4-post mechanical VRC engineered for vehicle transport and display change out.

Key Features:

• Capacity: 6,000 lbs
• Platform Size: 120” x 240” (drive-on capable)
• Travel: 2-level system
• Pit-mounted configuration for seamless vehicle access
• Located in a dedicated shaft with powered roll-up doors
• Integrated door controls within lift control station
• Enclosure side panels + light curtain system for enhanced safety
• Illuminated pushbuttons with lift-present indicators
• Electric platform deck locks for added fall protection at upper level
• Overhead electro-mechanical gear drive with brake motor for synchronized lifting

Application Impact:
Positioned directly off the service driveway, this lift enables effortless vehicle transport to the upper showroom—supporting dynamic vehicle displays and efficient model change-outs.

AQ Project#

166661

Through collaboration between Fletcher Jones Porsche, McKinley Equipment Corporation, and Autoquip, the dealership now benefits from a fully integrated vertical transport solution that supports both operations and customer experience.

• Operational Efficiency: Streamlined parts handling and reduced manual transport
• Enhanced Customer Experience: Elevated showroom with flexible vehicle display capabilities
• Space Optimization: Maximized use of vertical real estate in a high-value footprint
• Safety & Reliability: Advanced safety features across both systems tailored to their specific use cases
• Future-Ready Design: Increased capacity to accommodate evolving inventory and vehicle models