A horizontal storage module (HSM) includes a body defining a plurality of compartments configured for receiving canisters, wherein the compartments are arranged in a first row at a first elevation and a second row at a second elevation higher than the first elevation, and wherein at least a portion of one compartment in the first row is in the same horizontal axis location as at least a portion of one compartment in the second row. A method of manufacturing the HSM includes positioning adjacent segments. A carriage assembly for the HSM includes a frame and an actuation means for lifting a cask containing a canister. A method of lifting includes receiving a cask and lifting a cask for delivery of the canister to the HSM.