The Types of Material Handling Material handling is the backbone of supply chain management. Whether you’re moving boxes in a retail warehouse or transporting raw materials in a manufacturing plant, how you handle goods determines your operational efficiency, safety, and bottom line. This guide will walk you through the different types of material handling, key equipment examples, and how to choose the right system for your needs.
Interlink suggestion: Also check our blog on material handling system for strategic implementation insights.
What Is Material Handling?
Material handling refers to the movement, storage, protection, and control of materials throughout the stages of manufacturing, distribution, consumption, and disposal. The goal? Reduce handling costs, prevent damage, improve safety, and boost productivity.
The 4 Main Types of Material Handling Equipment
1️⃣ Storage and Handling Equipment
Storage and handling equipment is utilized to store materials during various stages of processing or transportation.
Examples:
- Pallet racks and shelving
- Bins, drawers, and stacking frames
- Mezzanines (to optimize vertical space)
Interlink: Learn about pallet jack hand tools used for easy storage movement.
2️⃣ Industrial Trucks
Facilities use these powered or manual vehicles to move goods.
Examples:
- Forklifts
- Hand trucks and pallet jacks
- Platform trucks
- Walkie stackers and order pickers
3️⃣ Bulk Material Handling Equipment
Large quantities of unpackaged items are transported using bulk material handling equipment.
Examples:
- Conveyors and hoppers
- Bucket elevators
- Stackers and silos
- Dump trucks
Agriculture, construction, and mining commonly use these systems.
4️⃣ Engineered Systems
Engineers design fully automated solutions to optimize efficiency and reduce the need for manual intervention.
Examples:
- Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS)
- Conveyor belts and networks
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
- Robotic palletizers
Classification by Handling Method
Material handling can also be categorized based on the method used:
- Manual Handling—Involves human effort. This method works best for lightweight items and short distances.
- Mechanical Handling—Uses machines like conveyors and cranes for mid- to heavy-duty tasks.
- Automated Handling—Deploys robotics and AI systems to streamline tasks and reduce errors.
Industry Applications of Material Handling
- Warehousing & Logistics
- E-commerce Fulfillment
- Cold Storage
- Construction Sites
- Pharmaceuticals & Food Processing
Don’t miss our post on the stacking method used in warehouse organization.
Choosing the Right Material Handling Equipment
When selecting material handling equipment, consider:
- Type of materials (unit vs. bulk loads)
- Volume and frequency
- Distance of movement
- Budget and scalability
- Safety standards
Why Material Handling Efficiency Matters
- Improved Transport
- Reduced Operating Costs
- Streamlined Inventory Flow
- Enhanced Worker Safety
- Sustainable Warehousing Practices
Pro Tip: Incorporate ergonomic designs and automation to reduce strain and maximize space usage.
People Also Ask
Q: What are the four main types of material handling equipment?
The main types are storage and handling equipment, industrial trucks, bulk material handling equipment, and engineered systems.
Q: What is the purpose of material handling?
The purpose of material handling is to safely move, store, and control materials in manufacturing and logistics, thereby improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Q: Which industries use material handling?
Industries like logistics, manufacturing, retail, agriculture, and construction rely heavily on material handling systems.
Q: What’s the difference between manual and mechanical handling?
Manual relies on human effort, while mechanical uses machines like cranes and conveyor systems for heavy lifting.
Q: Can I use manual and automated systems together?
Yes! Many facilities blend both for cost-effectiveness and flexibility.
Q: Are AGVs better than forklifts?
AGVs offer automation, accuracy, and safety, while forklifts provide flexibility and are cheaper for smaller facilities.
Q: What’s the best way to organize bulk materials?
Use a combination of hoppers, stackers, and conveyor belts for efficient sorting and movement.
Conclusion: The Future of Material Handling
The world of material handling is evolving. With rising labor costs and increasing demand for faster deliveries, automation and engineered systems are becoming essential. But even basic tools like a pallet jack or hand pallet mover still play a vital role in day-to-day warehouse activities.
By understanding the types of material handling and choosing equipment wisely, you set the stage for safer, faster, and more cost-effective operations.
