Material handling equipment refers to a wide array of tools and vehicles that help warehouse workers move items safely and quickly. This includes the heavy machinery used to load and unload truckloads of cargo, along with conveyor systems that move raw materials around a manufacturing or storage facility. With the right tools, workers can perform strenuous tasks with minimal strain, reducing injuries and musculoskeletal problems that can arise from manual lifting. In addition to providing safety, material handling equipment helps prevent operational bottlenecks by ensuring that items arrive in the correct place at the right time.
The type of material handling equipment a company needs depends on its workflow and the type of goods it produces. For example, a facility that makes large car parts may require a conveyor system to efficiently move components and body frames through assembly lines. Meanwhile, a warehouse that stores and distributes small packaged products may benefit from a system that uses electric carts to move them around the facility.
Warehouses and manufacturing facilities must also consider space when deciding on the appropriate equipment. Confined warehouse spaces with narrow aisles may favor maneuverability, while larger facilities with more floor space might prefer a stationary solution like a conveyor system or automated guided vehicle (AGV). The size and shape of a unit load will also influence what type of handling equipment is needed. For instance, granular or boxed items can easily be stored on racks, while other types of goods might require a stacking frame, conveyor belts, silos or a hopper.
In order to keep the environment safe and ensure that all employees have a comfortable working experience, all material handling equipment must meet certain requirements. In the United States, these guidelines are established by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. This means that all machines and vehicles must have seat belts, protective structures and emergency access doors in case of an accident or disaster. Similarly, all workers must be trained and certified to operate or drive the machinery.
Aside from making warehouse operations more efficient, material handling equipment also increases productivity and lowers operating costs. By enabling workers to lift and transport loads with greater ease, these tools allow them to complete routine tasks faster, which frees up more time for other duties. In addition, well-designed systems ensure that raw materials reach assembly stations and distribution centers in the correct order, preventing delays and errors that can cost a company money. As a result, companies that use this equipment can deliver final goods to wholesalers and retailers much faster, which improves customer satisfaction. This is especially important in an age where e-commerce is increasingly common.