Abstract: Automated method of retrieving and replacing tote pans wherein the handle of the pan is engaged by a retractor comprising a computer controlled warehousing stacker system. A given tote pan is retrieved from storage onto an elevated platform of the stacker and displaced by the stacker to a picking station. The tote pan is automatically removed from the elevated platform of the stacker to a selected location at the picking station where some or all of the contents of the tote pan are removed. The methods provide for removing from any predetermined storage bin location on either side of a storage aisle any such tote pan, removal to a selected site at the picking station and replacement of the tote pan at the same or at another storage bin location.