Abstract: A compact storage system, mountable for operation on a flat base platform, includes at least one guide rail having a roof and two legs depending from the roof thereby defining an inverted, generally U-shaped continuous channel. The guide rail is mounted in spaced generally mutually parallel relation to the base platform with its legs projecting toward the base platform so that the channel opens downwardly. The compact storage system further includes at least one movable storage unit that is supported for translational movement on the base platform. One or more guide rollers are mounted on the storage unit to be received in the channel of the guide rail with the guide roller being formed to engage either one of the legs of the rail for movement relative thereto. Accordingly, translational movement of the storage unit is confined to a path defined by the guide rail.