What is Material Handling?

Material handling refers to the movement, storage, and control of materials and products throughout the manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and logistics process. It involves the handling of raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods, as well as the equipment, vehicles, and systems used to facilitate these activities.

Material handling is a critical component of supply chain management, as it ensures the efficient movement of goods and products throughout the process, reducing costs, increasing productivity, and improving safety.

Examples of material handling equipment and systems include:

1. Conveyor Systems: These are used to move materials from one location to another, using a series of belts, chains, or rollers.
2. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): These are autonomous vehicles that are programmed to move materials and products throughout a facility without human intervention.
3. Pallet Jacks and Forklifts: These are vehicles used to move pallets of materials and products around a facility.
4. Storage Systems: These include racks, shelves, and bins used to store materials and products.
5. Robotics: These are used to automate material handling processes, including sorting, palletizing, and packaging.
6. Cranes and Hoists: These are used to lift and move heavy materials and products.
7. Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS): These are computer-controlled systems used to store and retrieve materials and products automatically.

Effective material handling is essential to reduce the risk of injury, damage to materials or products, and delays in the manufacturing process. Material handling also contributes to reducing the overall cost of the supply chain by optimizing the use of resources, improving efficiency and productivity, and ensuring the timely delivery of products.