Abstract: A system and method for increasing machine utilization and for minimizing tool changeover time comprising a storage and retrieval system located in near proximity to a press or a machine line for storing a plurality of dies or tooling fixtures, a pair of conveyors, one installed on each end of each machine bed so that a plurality of dies or tooling fixtures can be pre-staged thereon for utilization in machine or transferred thereto for inspection, cleaning and preparation for reuse and subsequent storage in the storage system. With respect to tooling, and the machines themselves, each machine is provided with at least two hydraulic actuated clamps, at least two locators, one having a locator post formed therein. Both the actuator clamps and the locators are positioned on a solid bed. Tooling modification includes the installation of sub-plates having a V-shaped slot which when used in conjunction with the locator post, provides for rapid and accurate positioning of each tooling fixture on the machine.