Material Handling Equipment

Material handling equipment is equipment that is related to the movement, storage, control and protection of materials, goods and products throughout the process of manufacturing, distribution, consumption and disposal. 

The efficient handling and storing of products are vital to many types of industry.  Unfortunately, the improper handling and storing of products can result in costly injuries. Therefore, it is very important to find the proper type of material handling equipment for the specific job. When a load is so bulky that a person can’t properly grasp or lift it, material handling equipment is necessary.

Storage and Handling Equipment

Storage and handling equipment is a category within the material handling industry. The equipment that falls under this description is usually non-automated storage equipment. Products such as pallet racking, shelving and carts, among others, belong to storage and handling.

Engineered Systems

Engineered systems are typically custom engineered material handling systems. Engineered systems are often a combination of products integrated to one system. Many distribution centers will optimize storage and picking by utilizing engineered systems such as pick modules and sorting systems.

Industrial trucks 

Industrial trucks usually refer to operator driven motorized warehouse vehicles, powered manually, by gasoline, propane or electrically. Industrial trucks assist the material handling system with versatility; they can go where engineered systems cannot. Forklift trucks are the most common example of industrial trucks but certainly aren’t the extent of the category. The advantage of forklifts is that they are usually small enough to bring into different warehousing situations. Tow tractors and stock chasers are additional examples of industrial trucks. Their greatest advantage lies in the wide range of attachments available; these increase the truck ability to handle various types and shapes of material.

Conveyor 

Conveyor is another form of material handling. Conveyor can be used in a multitude of ways from warehouses to airport baggage handling systems. Types of conveyors available are power and free, chain, towline and roller conveyors.