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Setting the Stage: Why 2026 Feels DifferentAccording to a recent study cited by a robotics-provider blog, “at least 76% of supply chainand logistics operations are experiencing notable workforce shortages,” with more thanhalf of warehouses reporting shortages. Additionally, a 2025 survey of warehouseoperators notes that “e-commerce demands, labor shortages and the need for spaceoptimization are driving demand for more warehouse automation.” Another articlesummarizing 2025 trends emphasizes how labor uncertainty, aging workforce, and highturnover make hiring/retention a persistent challenge for warehouses — pushing firmstoward automation & robotics adoption.There is clear, recent evidence that labor challenges and rising demand are fuelingautomation investments.Key Takeaways:• Persistent labor shortages that aren’t easing• Unpredictable demand patterns• E-commerce fulfillment still accelerating• Sustainability showing up in RFPs and purchasing criteria• A push toward flexibility rather than fixed infrastructureThe Automation Wave: What’s Actually Changing on the Floor.The global market for warehouse automation is estimated at USD 29.9 billion in 2025, withforecasts projecting ~USD 63.4 billion by 2030 (CAGR ~16.2%). Also, a closely relatedmarket — “material handling robotics” — is valued at USD 26.8 billion in 2025, with aprojected increase to USD 55.0 billion by 2032. A forecast for “AI robotics inwarehousing” reports a 2025 value of USD 15.3 billion and projects a huge expansion to~USD 100 billion by 2034 (CAGR ~23.2%). Industry sources describe a shift in 2025: whatonce was a “competitive advantage” is becoming a “critical necessity”. In a study byPMMI, 25% of warehouses are projected to have “some form of automation” by 2027 — upfrom 14% in 2017 and 18% at the end of 2021.The scale and growth rate of automation investments and the automation adoption — inconveyors, robotics, AMRs/AGVs, AS/RS, sortation systems, etc. — is accelerating sharply.Key takeaways:• AMRs/AGVs replacing long walking routes• Robotic pick stations and assisted picking• Conveyor upgrades and smarter sortation• Sensors, software, and data-driven flow decisionsThe Overlooked Piece: Mobility HardwareCasters may not headline budget meetings, but they shape everything from safety tothroughput. They determine how smoothly mobile workstations hand off to AMRs. Whethercarts track straight during autonomous towing. How vibration affects sensors, weld robots,or precision assembly. Whether floors wear prematurely under heavy dynamic loads. Inenvironments where robots and people coexist, even small mobility issues compound:Misalignment becomes a collision risk. Drift becomes a lost load. Vibration becomesa cycle-time penalty.It’s no exaggeration to say: automation works only as well as its mechanical interface withthe floor.Key Take aways:• Why mobile workstations, carts, fixtures, and tooling still need reliable casters• Where automation increases stress on wheels: directional shifts, dynamic loading,floor imperfections• How small mobility issues can derail a large automation investment (alignment,noise, vibration, drift, safety)Looking for the right caster solution for your application?ICWM connects you with the expertise, standards, and member companies to get it right.Explore more: https://www.mhi.org/icwm
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Before the Gorbel Easy Arm® was installed, it took two to three employees to move and stack the large 100 pound rolls of diaper material.
The Challenge: Upgrading a Legacy System for Modern DemandsDAMBACH's previous shuttle system, a successful 10-year veteran, was reaching its limits. They needed to overcome spare parts issues, enhance performance, and increase flexibility and storage density to meet evolving intralogistics demands. This necessitated a complete upgrade to a new-generation shuttle.
During annual process improvement initiatives, Tiffin decided to overhaul their material handling strategy so that workers no longer had to manually place components. Often, workers would also have to wait upwards of 45 minutes on components to be placed by forklift operators. Tiffin knew Gorbel® offered a wide variety of systems and chose to invest in our overhead solutions.
Jet Stream, a leading supplier of plastic pipe for irrigation and sewer systems was looking to improve inefficiencies in their production processes. They wanted to gain better control of their pipe loading and binding process by reducing the manual tasks and integrating material handling equipment that would do the hard work for them. No, small task due to the enormity in size of the pipes and the reorienting requirements coming out of fabrication to get them ready for stacking and binding.
This is a paid advertisement. Rehrig Pacific transforms beverage distribution by optimizing every step of direct store delivery to save time, reduce errors, and boost profitability. From innovative warehouse solutions and AI-powered pallet wrappers to specialized material handling tools like the Duo Lift and Duo Merch that streamline driver and merchandiser workflows, these innovations deliver a better way for customers to succeed in this fast-paced industry.
Material handling is an essential part of supply chains around the world and is a vital part of our growing digital economy. This is why MHI worked with Oxford Economics to produce the first-ever Economic Impact Report. CLICK HERE to download the report today.
This is a paid advertisement. Move more. Strain less.Amigo Mobility’s battery-powered cart tuggers, burden carriers, and custom trailers help keep people and products moving without forklifts or fatigue.Designed for tight aisles and busy facilities, Amigo material handling solutions help reduce strain and improve safety while freeing up larger equipment for higher-value tasks.If our standard trailers don’t fit your operation, we’ll build one that does.Explore how Amigo Mobility can help streamline your business with a fully custom material handling trailer.Amigo Mobility is built for the way you work.Try Amigo free for 14 days at myamigo.com/trial
This is a paid advertisement. Discover how cutting-edge AI and sensor-fusion technologies are transforming forklift safety and operational efficiency. This video highlights real-world solutions that reduce incidents, improve asset utilization, and deliver measurable ROI for warehouses and distribution centers.
Linköping, Sweden, Feb. 14 – Configura, a leading provider of innovative software solutions, announces the launch of CET 14.5 Minor, introducing significant updates and improvements to its Material Handling offerings. With a focus on enhancing efficiency and versatility in warehouse design, Configura's latest release empowers users with advanced tools and features tailored to their unique needs. MODEX attendees can visit booth #B7853 to learn more about Configura's warehouse design solutions and discover how they can revolutionize their workspace design process. Configura’s product, CET Material Handling, has been named one of three finalists for Best IT Innovation for the 2024 MHI Innovation Awards. Key Highlights of CET 14.5 Minor: Material Handling Library Extension: The Material Handling Library Extension enriches CET with an extensive catalog of high-quality products from renowned manufacturers like Kardex, FMH, SICK, Universal Robots, and more. Users gain easy access to a wide range of products, streamlined browsing, and direct insertion of products with current pricing and specifications. Instant updates inform users about the latest trends, enhancing their design capabilities. The Material Handling Library is available as a beta version for anyone with a CET license. Essential Cantilever Racking Extension: Designed to streamline warehouse space design, the Essential Cantilever Racking Extension offers an intuitive platform for efficiently visualizing and designing warehouse spaces. This Extension accelerates the design and sales process while providing photorealistic 3D renderings for enhanced visualization, featuring realistic product placeholders and tools for handling specifications, orders, and schematics. It is a natural piece of the puzzle that makes up CET Material Handling and CET Essentials for Material Handling. Essential Shelving Extension: Transitioning from beta to full availability on the Configura Marketplace, the Essential Shelving Extension provides users with access to multiple shelving types, such as slab, mesh, perforated, grid and tire beams to help quickly lay out entire, customized shelving systems. With a focus on versatility and ease of use, this extension lays the foundation for new shelving features and possibilities within CET. “We're excited to showcase our newest Material Handling products at MODEX 2024, and are honored to be a finalist in the Best IT Innovation category. Our latest enhancements elevate warehouse design efficiency and offer a holistic solution for all warehouse creation needs,” said Configura CEO Stefan Persson. “With intuitive product placement, precise pricing, and enhanced collaboration features, CET 14.5 Minor is poised to revolutionize the warehouse design experience.” CET 14.5 Minor introduces various enhancements to refine the user experience, including improved tools in the Essential Pallet Racking Extension, better precision in PDF creation, and adjustments in the Essential Guarding Extension for more realistic scenarios. Configura’s Essentials Extensions for Material Handling boost warehouse design efficiency, provide a comprehensive solution for all warehouse creation needs, accurate pricing specifications, and orders, the ability to create a bill of materials and schematics, reduce user training time, and enhance 3D renderings for decision-makers and designers. For more information on Configura's latest updates, visit Configura Support. About Configura Configura creates intelligent space-planning software for manufacturers, dealers and designers in the contract furniture, kitchen and bath, material handling, industrial machinery, and laboratory and healthcare industries. The company’s software products are used worldwide. Configura Sverige AB, the parent company, is headquartered in Linköping, Sweden, with commercial operations in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Shenzhen, China; Tokyo, Japan; and Berlin, Germany. Founded in 1990, Configura is privately owned with 300 employees worldwide and annual sales of more than $25 million USD. More information at www.configura.com. Contact Juan Sanchez Business Developer juan.sanchez@configura.com
[Linköping, 25th of February 2025] – Configura, a global leader in parametric design software solutions for material handling, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with BEUMER Group, a leading provider of intralogistics solutions. This collaboration will integrate BEUMER Group’s Pallet Conveyor Portfolio into CET Material Handling, enhancing the digital planning and configuration capabilities available to material handling professionals worldwide.BEUMER Group is a renowned authority in material handling and intralogistics solutions, specializing in high-performance conveyor systems, palletizing technology, packaging solutions, and sortation systems. With a strong reputation for engineering excellence and customer-centric innovation, BEUMER Group serves a diverse range of industries including logistics, airport baggage handling, and bulk material handling. The company is a global leader in airport baggage handling systems, offering advanced automation solutions to enhance efficiency and streamline operations at major airports worldwide.CET Material Handling enables users to efficiently design, configure, and visualize complex material handling solutions in a highly intuitive 3D environment. By incorporating BEUMER Group’s Pallet Conveyor Portfolio, users will gain access to a comprehensive range of industry-leading conveyor solutions, ensuring seamless design, improved efficiency, and greater accuracy in project planning."We are thrilled to partner with Configura to implement a significant part of our product portfolio to CET Material Handling. With the high integration to further processes and tools, we will increase quality and efficiency, which is a key factor to be the partner of choice for our customers. — Alexander Huber, BEUMER Group]"This partnership underscores Configura’s commitment to expanding its ecosystem with top-tier industry partners, ensuring that material handling professionals have access to the best tools and components for their projects. The integration of BEUMER Group’s advanced conveyor solutions will streamline workflows, minimize errors, and provide customers with a more efficient and reliable planning experience."Our collaboration with BEUMER Group represents a significant step forward for CET Material Handling. By integrating their innovative conveyor systems into our platform, we empower users with the tools they need to design, plan, and execute projects with exceptional precision and efficiency." — Stefan Persson, CEO of ConfiguraBy joining forces, Configura and BEUMER Group are set to revolutionize how pallet conveyor systems are designed and implemented, offering customers a powerful and flexible digital solution for their intralogistics needs.For more information about CET Material Handling and the new BEUMER Group integration, please visit www.configura.com.About ConfiguraConfigura creates intelligent space-planning software for manufacturers, dealers and designers in the contract furniture, kitchen and bath, material handling, industrial machinery, and laboratory and healthcare industries. The company’s software products are used worldwide. Configura Sverige AB, the parent company, is headquartered in Linköping, Sweden, with commercial operations in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Shenzhen, China; Tokyo, Japan; and Berlin, Germany. Founded in 1990, Configura is privately owned, with 300 employees worldwide and annual sales of more than $25 million USD. More information at www.configura.com.ContactJuan SanchezBusiness Developerjuan.sanchez@configura.com
Raymond provides online tools that reinforce technician fundamentals, lean management principles and operator educationGREENE, N.Y., January 13, 2026 —The Raymond Corporation is introducing e-learning modules to further support material handling education by promoting efficiency and operator security. Raymond is releasing an extensive library of learning material focusing on technician fundamentals, lean management principles and operator education, all of which can be accessed electronically.Raymond’s latest e-learning tools will educate customers on: Forklift Operator Education — Raymond’s industry-leading forklift operator training program helps employers protect their people, equipment and material. This module introduces best practices for warehouse environments that help protect employees, equipment and material while complying with OSHA regulations. Forklift Technician Education — This development module educates technicians on the foundational knowledge necessary to learn forklift maintenance and repair. The content library is an accessible troubleshooting resource for on-site needs. Raymond Lean Management — Raymond Lean Management (RLM) is built on the proven foundation and principles of the world-renowned Toyota Production System (TPS). This program provides the first step in understanding RLM and TPS standard processes, ultimately guiding the integration of continuous improvement into daily work.“Raymond understands the importance of offering educational resources to ensure operations, including their technicians and forklift operators, have the proper knowledge and tools to confidently create and navigate a secure work environment,” said Todd Vick, director of customer experience, The Raymond Corporation. “By expanding our e-learning offerings, we are providing an accessible library of high-quality content that can be leveraged in almost any environment.”Raymond’s e-learning offerings are also available as a subscription-based model of resources.To learn more about Raymond’s current e-learning offerings, visit www.raymondcorp.com/service/training.For more information on Raymond or to locate an authorized Raymond Solutions and Support Center, visit raymondcorp.com or call 800-235-7200.About The Raymond CorporationThe Raymond Corporation, a member of the Toyota Industries family of companies, is a leading global provider of best-in-class material handling products and intelligent intralogistics solutions. Built on principles of innovation and continuous improvement for over 100 years, Raymond’s integrated automation, telematics, virtual reality and advanced energy solutions provide ways to optimize operations and bring warehouse and distribution operations to a new level of performance. Raymond® electric forklift trucks are engineered to achieve increased productivity and efficiency and are designed to provide ecological and economic benefits. Raymond delivers solutions to material handling and logistics markets in North America and globally. Combining operational excellence, award-winning innovation and world-class global customer support, we work together to run better, manage smarter and keep our customers always on. For more information, visit raymondcorp.com and follow us on Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.Raymond® is a U.S. trademark of The Raymond Corporation.©2026 The Raymond Corporation. All rights reserved.ContactElizabeth BuzaThe Raymond Corporationmediacomm@raymondcorp.com607-343-0845--Tanner Kersey-LopezBader Ruttertkerseylopez@bader-rutter.com559-676-5446
SUMMERVILLE, SC – Linde Material Handling (LMH) is set to make a notable presence at MODEX, taking place from March 11 to 14, 2024, at booths #B8011 and #C7495. The showcase will feature a diverse range of offerings, including recently launched products, popular warehouse solutions, engaging speaking sessions, and live demonstrations of cutting-edge Linde Automated Solutions. Attendees will have the chance to personally encounter innovative material handling solutions that include the following: Automated Solutions: View two demos live for the duration of the event. Booth #B8011 will display the K-MATIC (automated VNA turret truck) in action. Booth #C7495 showcases an automated counterbalance, the L-MATIC, driven by Linde MH’s easy-to-install AGV management system, PACS. Finally, Jack Kaumo, Intralogistics Sales Leader, will be hosting the keynote session “Getting the Most Out of Your Labor”, discussing insights and solutions struggling with personnel management and considering the switch to an automated fleet. Operation Enhancers: Demonstrations and subject-matter experts will be available on the event floor for two operation enhancing add-ons: Linde Guardian and Linde Li-ION Batteries. • Linde Guardian is a communication system used to minimize risk of forklift collision with infrastructure, pedestrians, or other trucks. The system includes various sensors and alerting devices which keep the operator aware of potential hazards, even around corners. • Linde Li-ION Batteries are Linde’s solution for miscommunication between lift truck and energy source. Receive an accurate state-of-charge display and improve the energy efficiencies between the forklift and its battery. Electric Forklifts: Embrace sustainability in every environment without sacrificing performance. Experience the Linde Series 5195, and the Series 1346, and the new Series 1254X in-person this year. • The 5195 is a narrow aisle reach truck built for your high-density warehouses. It’s accompanied by several ergonomic, efficiency, and easy access features to keep your operator, warehouse manager, and maintenance technician happy on the job. • The 1346 is a stand-up electric counterbalance, built to maneuver easily through heavy-traffic warehouses. Its small footprint, low height suspended platform, and robust frame are purposefully designed for highly challenging applications. • The 1254X pushes the performance of electric trucks to meet that of internal-combustion; it’s capable of operating shoulder-to-shoulder in the same environment, with the added benefit of more efficient energy solutions. Next Generation of Pallet Trucks: The MT15B and MT22 will debut for the first time in a public forum this March. These trucks are engineered for flexibility, with features to bring high-performance material handling to multi-shift workplaces. • The MT15B is equipped with a Li-ION battery and onboard charger, with the option to replace the charger with a second battery. • The MT22 combines higher capacity lifting with a small footprint for ease of use in confined spaces. About KION North America Corporation Headquartered in Summerville, S.C., KION North America Corporation is a member of the KION Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial trucks. Their brand companies, Linde Material Handling and Baoli, serve the specific industrial truck requirements of the US, Canadian and Mexican markets with a broad and complementary product portfolio. KION North America produces material handling equipment known for its innovative technologies, reduced energy consumption, and low operating costs. KION North America also works closely with its sister company, Dematic, a global leader in automated material handling that provides a broad range of intelligent supply chain and automation solutions. Contact Angus MacIver Marketing & Communications Specialist 843-531-1335 angus.maciver@kiongroup.com
MHI, in collaboration with Oxford Economics, has released an updated “Handling the US Economy: The Economic Impact of the Material Handling Industry” report. This in-depth analysis explores how the material handling sector contributes to the broader U.S. economy and supports the supply chain infrastructure.The report reveals that the industry’s economic impact reaches far beyond the facilities where equipment and technologies are manufactured or designed. Its influence spans multiple sectors, driving job creation, tax revenue, and GDP growth.To view the report, click here
Handling Applications with Conveyor and Sortation Systems
Robotics and Automation topped distributive technologies that would provide companies with competitive advantages in the next ten years since MHI started publishing its Industry Annual Reports, and the year 2024 was no different. We are on the verge of a significant increase in robotics adoption due to the increasing sophistication of robotic systems that can autonomously perform tasks such as picking, packing, and data-driven decision-making. Key technologies like sensors, vision systems, machine learning, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and edge/cloud computing are converging to enable more autonomous robotics. While such technological advances accelerate the adaptation of robotics in manufacturing and material handling systems, the recent social trends shape how and where robotics are used. By examining these dimensions, we aim to provide actionable insights into the transformative potential of robotics in the era of Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0.
THE ESSENTIALS OF MATERIAL HANDLING: MATERIAL HANDLING PLANNING AND DESIGN: CONCEPTS, TOOLS AND PRACTICES (Book) - An introductory four-chapter book covering the planning process, data gathering, graphical tools of the profession and analytical tools of the profession, including several model data gathering forms. (Also available as a binder, sku# 20108)
This handy one page document is an excellent primer to appreciate the basics of good ergonomics and what problems to look for.
MHI commissioned this report with Oxford Economics to quantify the economic impact that this vital industry has across all industries and regions of the United States. That impact in 2018 amounted to more than $173.2 billion in GDP, as well as $39.3 billion in taxes to local, state and federal governments. In addition, the report found that the material handling industry supported nearly 1.6 million jobs in 2018, and workers in the industry earn $73,900 annual income on average, placing them well above the median income earners.
The checklist presented below is from the book Kodak's Ergonomic Design for People at Work. It helps users to identify any job risk factors that my be present in the job. This checklist is applicable to jobs requiring the routine handling of objects of 10 pounds or more.
Material handling is an essential part of supply chains around the world and is a vital part of our growing digital economy. This is why MHI worked with Oxford Economics to produce the first-ever Economic Impact Report.
Join in on the conversation of the International Material Handling Research Colloquium (IMHRC), a dynamic event where experts converge to drive innovation in materials handling and supply chain with David Porter.
One of the most recognizable images of the modern supply chain is the autonomous robot. Today’s solutions are often as simple as a robotic arm, designed to pick product quickly and efficiently. It is these innovations we’re here today to discuss.
Presented by: The Conveyor and Sortation Systems (CSS) MHI Industry Group As automation reshapes the modern supply chain, the integration between packaging and material handling is more important than ever. In this session, experts from the Conveyor and Sortation Systems (CSS) Industry Group will explore how automation technologies—such as conveyors, sorters, and smart controls—are creating seamless transitions from packaging lines to warehouse and distribution operations. Attendees will learn: The key touchpoints where packaging and material handling intersect How automation reduces bottlenecks, labor costs, and product damage Real-world examples of integrated systems across e-commerce, CPG, and food & beverage Best practices for evaluating and selecting automation solutions The role of data and software in connecting packaging equipment with material flow systems Whether you’re a packaging engineer, operations leader, or supply chain strategist, this session will help you better understand how collaboration between sectors is driving scalable, sustainable automation strategies. Session Presented by CSS Colin Cartwright Director of Industry Development – Packaging NA at Murrelektronik Dr. Helge Hornis Director of Technology, Americas at Pepperl+Fuchs Allison Myers Director of Marketing & Communications at Fives Intralogistics Corp. Chris Thompson Sr. Marketing Communications Manager at Duravant 📅 Tuesday, September 30 🕧 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM 📍 Industry Speaks Stage (W-4324) 🔗 View full session details on the PACK EXPO website
The handling of materials by hand or by using devices that are non-powered.
Material Handling is the movement, storage, control and protection of materials, goods and products throughout the process of manufacturing, distribution, consumption and disposal. The focus is on the methods, mechanical equipment, systems and related controls used to achieve these functions. See also, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Logistics and Third Party Logistics. Note that all of referenced terms are highly interrelated and their definitions are frequently intermingled.
A principle is a general rule, fundamental, or other statement of an observed truth. Over time certain fundamental truths of material handling have been found to exist. The "principles" of material handling are often useful in analyzing, planning and managing material handling activities and systems. At the very least they form a basic foundation upon which one can begin building expertise in material handling. These principles, that serve as a starting point to identifying potential problems and assessing need, are: 1. Planning 2. Standardization 3. Work 4. Ergonomic 5. Unit Load 6. Space Utilization 7. System 8. Automation 9. Environment 10. Life Cycle Cost To receive a complete explanation for each of these :"Principles", contact the Material Handling Institute at (704) 676-1190 and ask for the document, "The Ten Principles of Material Handling".
A management tool that calculates the income of a material handling investment or project and divides this income by the cost of the assets devoted to the investment or project. A valuable tool when calculating the " economic justification " of a material handling investment.
Free download.This standard applies to fixed stairways and ladders along with guarding for elevated platforms used in material handling structures. The stairways and ladders are attached to structures such as industrial racking pick modules, decked-over platforms, industrial shelving pick modules and decked-over platforms, and free-standing work platforms. These structures are described in the ANSI MH 16.X and ANSI MH28.X series of standards. This standard is intended to serve as a reference document for other material handling equipment standards or specifications.This standard was developed by a joint effort of both the Rack Manufacturers Institute (RMI) and Storage Manufacturers Association (SMA).
In 1990, 275,000 passengers passed through the Leipzig/Hall Airport in Germany, by 1995 that number had grown to 2 million and today more than 4.5 million passengers per year utilize this hub. A DEMAG ALU Enclosed Track Single Girder Crane with a High Speed Rocker Switch style hoist was installed along the sides of a 75’ long oval conveyer belt. The 13’ lightweight Aluminum Crane Girders allow the bags to be moved from conveyer to cart with minimum effort.
An automotive manufacturer in Canada needed a process for overhead material handling when their plant converted from a warehouse operation to a manufacturing operation. Learn how a freestanding bridge crane system provided their solution.