Automated Material Handling Equipment Market Evolution From Manual To Automated

Automated Material Handling Equipment Industry Overview

The global automated material handling equipment market size was estimated at USD 61.04 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2024 to 2030. The growing need for automation in various industries drives the market growth. Companies want to automate manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce labor costs, and improve product quality. Material handling is a critical aspect of modern production systems, where the movement, storage, and protection of materials and products are essential for the efficient flow of operations.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Automated Material Handling Equipment Market

This process is integral to the manufacturing, distribution, consumption, and disposal of goods and impacts the system's overall performance. A well-designed material handling system can reduce labor costs, minimize equipment expenses, and improve product quality. Through correct equipment selection, manufacturers can ensure the smooth flow of materials and products throughout the production process, increase the speed of production, reduce the risk of damage to materials and products, and improve the safety of workers. Therefore, material handling equipment is an essential investment for any manufacturing or production business seeking to streamline operations and optimize efficiency.

The automated material handling industry is expected to benefit from the increasing trend toward smart factories. With advancements in motion control, robots have become more agile and precise, allowing them to creatively manipulate workpieces or products and perform a wide range of tasks. Monitoring the manufacturing process, including picking, sorting, and conveying systems, is necessary to improve efficiency and reduce waste. Smart factories integrated with automated systems enable real-time monitoring of every process.

The AMH industry is driven by intuitive technologies such as cloud-based software, IoT, and machine learning, which enable real-time data monitoring and analysis, identifying inefficiencies and optimizing operations. Cloud-based software can monitor equipment performance and detect issues, while IoT sensors can track the movement of materials and products throughout the supply chain. As a result, the material handling industry is expected to continue growing as manufacturers seek to improve efficiency and reduce waste by adopting smart technologies. Machine Learning (ML) algorithms can also be used to optimize material flow, reduce bottlenecks, and enhance the system's productivity.

Recent Developments

• In March 2024, OTTO Motors by Rockwell Automation, specializing in AMRs, unveiled its involvement in autonomous production logistics, a pioneering sector in manufacturing innovation. With the acquisition of OTTO Motors into its portfolio, Rockwell Automation broadened its material handling capabilities, offering a comprehensive solution for streamlining operations throughout entire facilities.

• In February 2023, ArcBest Corporation announced the launch of autonomous reach trucks and forklifts that can also be operated remotely. These AMR units are integrated with software, enabling remote control by human operators. They offer mode settings that accommodate both autonomous and manual operations. Utilizing sensors and cameras, the units navigate warehouse floors to handle tasks such as pallet loading, stacking, and moving goods. Supervision of autonomous operation is facilitated by a teleoperator control center, ensuring efficient monitoring of the units.

• In August 2023, ANYbotics AG expanded its footprint in Canada by appointing MicroWatt Controls as a reseller partner. This collaboration between ANYbotics AG and MicroWatt Controls highlights the growing need for industrial robotic inspection in the region, particularly within the chemical, oil & gas, energy, and mining sectors.

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Key Companies profiled:

• Daifuku Co., Ltd.

• KION GROUP AG

• Schaefer Systems International, Inc.

• Honeywell International Inc.

• Toyota Material Handling International

• Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc.

• Jungheinrich AG

• Hanwha Group

• JBT

• KUKA AG