MHE Material Handling Equipment: Types, Uses and Importance

What Is MHE (Material Handling Equipment)?

MHE (Material Handling Equipment) refers to the mechanical tools, systems, and machines used to move, store, control, and protect materials throughout manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution processes.

Common examples of MHE include forklifts, conveyors, cranes, racks, hoists, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs).
These systems are essential in industries like logistics, e-commerce, and manufacturing to improve productivity, reduce manual effort, and ensure workplace safety.

In short, MHE is the backbone of industrial movement and material flow, ensuring goods reach the right place at the right time — safely and efficiently.

Why Is Material Handling Equipment (MHE) Important?

Improves Workflow Efficiency – Reduces manual labor and speeds up processes.
Enhances Safety – Minimizes the risk of injuries during heavy lifting.
Optimizes Space – Equipment like racks and mezzanines use vertical space efficiently.
Reduces Costs – Automation and mechanization reduce labor and time expenses.
Increases Productivity – Workers can focus on value-added tasks instead of manual movement.
Ensures Product Protection – Minimizes material damage during transit and storage.

Classification of MHE (Material Handling Equipment)

Material Handling Equipment is classified into four main categories — each serving specific industrial functions.

1. Transport Equipment

Used for moving materials within a facility or between storage and production zones.

Common Types:

Forklifts:
The “engine of warehouses,” used for lifting, stacking, and transporting pallets.
- Pros: Powerful, versatile, and efficient.
- Cons: Needs trained operators.
Pallet Forklift:
A compact MHE tool for moving palletized goods across short distances.
Conveyor Systems:
Automate the movement of goods along fixed paths, reducing human intervention.
Cranes:
Used for vertical lifting of heavy loads — ideal for construction and industrial plants.
Electric Tuggers:
Battery-driven MHE for pulling heavy wheeled loads with precision.
BOPT Machine:
A Battery Operated Pallet Truck used for horizontal transport with minimal effort.

2. Storage and Handling Equipment

Used to store materials safely and efficiently, this category helps optimize floor and vertical space in warehouses.

Common Types:

Racks and Shelving:
Store items neatly, maximizing space vertically.
Mezzanines:
Elevated storage platforms that double warehouse capacity.
Bins and Drawers:
For organizing small components and parts.
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS):
High-tech storage MHE using robots and conveyors for automated item placement.

3. Bulk Material Handling Equipment

Designed for moving and storing loose materials like sand, grains, coal, or cement.

Common Types:

Conveyors:
For continuous transport of materials over long distances.
Bucket Elevators:
Lift bulk materials vertically to silos or hoppers.
Silos & Hoppers:
Store and dispense large quantities of loose materials.
Stackers & Reclaimers:
Build and retrieve bulk material stockpiles.

4. Engineered Systems (Automated MHE)

Engineered systems combine automation, robotics, and smart technology to manage materials with minimal human effort.

Common Types:

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs):
Self-driving vehicles that transport materials autonomously.
Robotic Palletizers:
Stack goods onto pallets automatically for packaging and shipping.
AS/RS Systems:
Fully automated storage and retrieval controlled by software.
Conveyor Automation:
Networked conveyors with sensors and logic-based control.

Key Components of MHE Systems

Lifting Components: Forks, hoists, hydraulic systems.
Control Systems: Electronic drives, safety locks, and automation sensors.
Power Units: Battery, electric, or diesel-powered motors.
Support Structures: Racks, mezzanines, and steel frames.
Mobility Parts: Wheels, rollers, and conveyor belts for smooth movement.

Advantages of Using MHE in Industries

Speed & Accuracy: Automation ensures precise and quick material movement.
Safety: Reduces human strain and fatigue.
Cost Efficiency: Lowers labor costs over time.
Flexibility: Adapts to multiple material types and layouts.
Sustainability: Battery-operated systems reduce carbon footprint.

MHE Equipment Price in India (2025 Estimate)

Equipment Type	Average Price Range (₹)
Forklift Truck	3,00,000 – 12,00,000
Battery Operated Pallet Truck (BOPT)	1,50,000 – 8,00,000
Conveyor Systems	2,00,000 – 10,00,000
Hydraulic Pallet Truck	20,000 – 60,000
AS/RS Systems	10,00,000 – 50,00,000+
Electric Hand Trucks	1,00,000 – 3,50,000

Latest Trends in MHE (Material Handling Equipment)

Electrification of MHE: Battery-driven trucks and forklifts replacing diesel systems.
Automation & Robotics: Smart machines like AGVs and robotic palletizers dominate warehouses.
IoT Integration: Real-time data monitoring for preventive maintenance.
AI-Powered Efficiency: Machine learning algorithms optimize routes and inventory.
Sustainability: Eco-friendly designs with energy-efficient motors.

Choosing the Right MHE for Your Business

Understand Material Type: Palletized, loose, or fragile.
Evaluate Space & Layout: Narrow aisles or open factory setups.
Determine Load Capacity: Match MHE strength to your heaviest loads.
Power Source: Electric for indoor use, diesel for outdoors.
Frequency of Use: Continuous operations need heavy-duty equipment.
Budget: Consider ROI — long-term efficiency over short-term savings.

Conclusion

MHE (Material Handling Equipment) plays a pivotal role in streamlining industrial operations — from lifting heavy loads with forklifts to organizing products using racks and conveyors.

With growing demand for speed and safety, modern warehouses rely on electric and automated MHE like BOPT Machines, Forklifts, and Battery Operated Pallet Trucks to stay competitive.

As industries evolve, embracing smarter, energy-efficient material handling systems will be key to optimizing productivity and building a sustainable, tech-driven future.

MHE Material Handling Equipment: Types, Uses and Importance