Glossary
Vending Machine Glossary — Key Terms for Buyers
Quick answer
A plain-language glossary of vending terms: planogram, capacity, spiral, elevator, locker, micro market, cashless, telemetry and OEM.
At a glance
Overview
Vending projects involve a mix of retail, mechanical and software vocabulary. The definitions below are written for buyers who need to compare proposals, not for engineers.
If a supplier uses a term differently, ask for the specification behind it. A definition is only useful when it maps to a measurable requirement.
VendHarbor review · Updated November 4, 2026.
Buying and configuration questions
What is a planogram?
A planogram is the map of which product goes in which slot, shelf or door. It should be based on sales data, product dimensions and the customer journey.
What is capacity in vending?
Capacity is the number of items a cabinet can hold in a given configuration. It changes with product size, shelf pitch and packaging.
What is a spiral vending machine?
A spiral machine holds products between the turns of a coil and pushes the front item forward when the coil rotates.
What is an elevator vending machine?
An elevator machine uses a platform to carry the selected product to the pickup door instead of dropping it.
What is a vending locker?
A vending locker is a cabinet with independent doors; each door holds one item or order and is opened only for the assigned pickup.
What is a micro market?
A micro market is a small self-service retail space with open shelves, fridges, lockers and a payment kiosk. It is not a single vending machine.
What is cashless vending?
Cashless vending means accepting card, QR, account or other electronic payment instead of cash. Modules are selected by market.
What is telemetry in vending?
Telemetry is the machine-to-cloud connection that reports sales, stock, temperature and faults, and accepts remote configuration.
What is OEM and ODM?
OEM means building to the buyer’s specification under the buyer’s brand. ODM means the manufacturer develops the design and the buyer brands it.
What is a planogram reset?
A reset is a planned change to the product-to-slot map, usually after a sales review or a seasonal range change.
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