A system for storage and retrieval of items includes a shelving rack configured to store the items. The shelving rack has a plurality of vertical levels. The system includes at least one robotic carriage operable to move horizontally. The robotic carriage includes an extendable arm that extends horizontally and vertically to lift the items from an input slot and to carry and place the items on the shelving rack. The robotic carriage is also operable to lift the items from the shelving rack and to carry and place the items on a workstation. The workstation is positioned in close proximity to the shelving rack. By locating the workstation in close proximity to the shelving rack, the items may be transferred from the shelving rack to the workstation without requiring conveyors and ram drives.