The Benefits of Material Handling Systems & How to Choose the Right Warehouse Equipment

Are you searching for comprehensive material handling solutions to increase your warehouse productivity and enhance your employees’ safety? With the right material handling system in place, you can accomplish all of these things and more.

Your warehouse has many moving parts, and your material handling system likely includes a combination of different warehouse equipment and manual processes. However, if your current setup isn’t fulfilling your company’s needs, it may be time to reevaluate.

Below, we’re discussing the main objectives and advantages of material handling, as well as the various types of warehouse equipment available that can enhance your procedures and increase your bottom line. Let’s take a look!

What Is Material Handling & How Does It Improve Your Productivity and Workflow?

Warehouses typically use manual, semi-automatic, or automatic processes and equipment (or a combination of all three) to keep their operations flowing. Your material handling system determines how you store, move, protect, and control your products and materials.

Without an effective material handling system in place, your business could suffer negative impacts on its productivity, leading to delays and errors. On the other hand, when warehouses have a good grasp on the importance of material handling and invest in the right equipment, they can fulfill orders in the most efficient way possible.

Different Types of Material Handling Products and Warehouse Equipment

Material processing is not one-size-fits-all – there are many ways to customize your material handling systems and procedures based on your specific needs. Therefore, you should take the time to determine which products will be most beneficial to your warehouse.

Here are just a few of the various types of material handling equipment you can choose to utilize at your company:

• Material Handling and Storage Equipment – This type of equipment is used to store products and materials until they are assembled or shipped out. It is crucial for keeping your warehouse organized, free of clutter, and safe for employees. Common examples include pallet racks, stacking frames, and shelving units.
• Automated Conveyor Systems – These automated conveyor systems are used to lift, transfer, and divert products throughout your warehouse and limit the need for manual intervention. Conveyors are often motorized and typically utilize rollers, skate wheels, or belts.
• Material Handling Equipment for Bulk Materials – Does your warehouse handle larger loads or oversized products? If so, it’s essential to invest in equipment that can handle bulk materials. Stackers, silos, and bucket elevators are all effective options.
• Industrial Trucks – These vehicles help you move materials and products throughout your warehouse. Examples of industrial trucks include forklifts, side loaders, pallet jacks, and hand trucks.

Using Material Handling Equipment to Your Advantage

Investing in the right types of material handling equipment, intelligently organizing your warehouse, and implementing an effective management system will help you streamline and enhance your warehouse operations. That way, you can keep production flowing, prevent workplace injuries, and enjoy higher profit margins.

Are you interested in adding new material handling equipment to your current warehouse setup? If so, A-Lined Handling Systems is here to help. We can work with you to develop a customized material handling plan designed to fit your company’s needs.

For more information about our products, or to schedule a consultation with our expert team, contact us today!