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Understanding Advanced Handling Processes
Material handling involves the movement and storage of materials throughout the supply chain. This ensures products, equipment and other materials are delivered on time, to the correct place, and in the right condition.
Effective handling improves productivity, reduces operational costs, and improves safety. The most efficient handling processes focus on reducing the number of times products are moved, reducing wasted time and maximizing throughput.
The Role of Material Handling in Supply Chain Management
Material handling is an integral part of supply chain management. Processes such as inventory management, packaging, and transportation, rely on efficient material handling. Poor management of handling processes can cause delays - leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Efficient material handling is critical to maintaining agility and competitive advantage. Companies can gain a competitive advantage by efficiently managing their supply chain, enabling them to quickly respond to changing market conditions and customer demands.
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Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
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Robotic Material Handling Systems
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Conveyor Systems and Sorting Solutions
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Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
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Material Handling Equipment
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Electric Tuggers
Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
An Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) is a material handling system that travels autonomously without the need for an operator. They are able to navigate autonomously, either through natural navigation or by following a defined path on the floor. AGVs can handle tasks such as transportation, assembly, and packing, and improve efficiency and resource utilization.
Robotic Material Handling Systems
Robotic material handling systems are a type of automation. They employ robots to carry out material handling tasks, like picking, packing, and palletizing – typically carried out with robotic arms. Robotic material handling systems reduce the need for manual labor and can help provide a more consistent and efficient workflow.
Conveyor Systems and Sorting Solutions
Conveyor systems are designed to transport materials from one location to another. They help to reduce manual handling and improve operational efficiency by moving high volumes of materials at a constant rate.
Sortation solutions work alongside these systems to group loads based on their destination or delivery route, further streamlining the process. Conveyor systems and sortation solutions can handle large volumes of materials, making them ideal for busy logistics warehouses and distribution canters.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Warehouse Management Systems use automation software to optimize material handling processes. They reduce human error while providing real-time visibility and control of all material handling activities, from inventory management to order picking and packing. The system helps to manage and track inventory levels, maintain product quality, and eliminate delays caused by miscommunication or human error.
Material Handling Equipment
The market for material handling equipment is expansive, encompassing a range of different equipment. Various solutions exist for lifting loads, such as forklift trucks, overhead cranes and pallet trucks. Other types of mechanical handling equipment are available such as electric tugs, shunters and tow tractors. As technology across the industry continues to evolve, more advanced, autonomous solutions such as AGV forklifts and electric tuggers are becoming more popular.
Electric Tuggers
Electric tuggers are material handling equipment designed to move heavy-wheeled loads. Electric tuggers help businesses streamline their material handling processes and increase efficiency. They are available as pedestrian-operated or as more advanced solutions, such as remote control and automated guided vehicles (AGVs).
Key Considerations: Implementing Advanced Material Handling Systems
Implementing advanced handling systems can be challenging, but considering these factors early on will help:
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Integrating New Technologies with Existing Systems
The solution chosen should integrate seamlessly with existing processes and systems. This ensures that there is no disruption to the workflow, and efficiency is not compromised.
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Operator Training
Before implementing any new technology, it’s important to provide sufficient training to ensure staff can operate any equipment safely and efficiently.
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Maintaining Handling Equipment
Regular maintenance and servicing of an advanced material handling system will ensure it operates efficiently and reduces the risk of breakdowns. This will minimize downtime and ensure timely delivery of products.
