Material handling is a central process for the efficiency of any logistics operation. If poorly planned, it can lead to delays, additional costs, and wasted resources.
When structured with appropriate storage and internal transport systems, it promotes fluidity, safety, and productivity gains.
In this content you will learn the main techniques for handling and storing materials, as well as best practices and... How automation can ensure efficiency at every stage of the operation..
What is materials handling?
Material handling encompasses all processes involved in moving products within a company. This includes everything from receiving to... storage, picking and shipping.
An efficient system must consider not only the physical space, but also the entire integration between equipment, storage structures, and internal flows.
What is the difference between logistics and intralogistics?
The most common question when discussing materials handling is the distinction between logistics and intralogistics.
- Logistics: It encompasses the entire management of the product flow, from raw materials to the end consumer, including transportation, distribution, consumption, and recycling.
- IntralogisticsIt focuses on the internal flow of goods and information within distribution centers and industries. The goal is to integrate and automate processes, ensuring maximum operational efficiency.
Competitive logistics is only possible with intelligent, structured intralogistics supported by appropriate storage systems.
What are the principles of materials handling?
The fundamental principles of materials handling are:
- Planning – to develop a detailed plan aligned with the strategic objective;
- Standardization – to standardize methods, equipment and controls, while maintaining flexibility;
- Work/Efficiency – Reduce distance and effort without compromising productivity;
- Ergonomics/Safety – consider the human factor by reducing risks and fatigue;
- Unitization Moving unit loads facilitates the flow;
- Use of space – Maximize three-dimensional space while maintaining accessibility;
- Systemic – to integrate activities related to movement, storage, and operational flow;
- Automation – Apply automation whenever there is compatibility with loads and systems.
How to plan a material handling system?
Planning should begin with a detailed analysis of the operation. Some key points include:
- Order history (minimum of 6 months, ideally 12 months).
- Identifying seasonal patterns and peak demand.
- Product categories, taking into account restrictions such as medicines, food, or chemicals.
- ABC analysis and detailed item registration.
- Dimensions, weight, and units per order line.
This information guides the choice of the ideal system, whether Pallet Rack, Drive-in, Dynamic, Push Back, Cantilever, Mezzanine, Mobile Bases or automated structures such as Stacker Cranes and Satellite Cars.
What are the main solutions for material handling?
Solutions vary according to the operational profile and the needs of each company. Among the most commonly used are:
- Pallet Rackversatility for different stocks and high selectivity.
- Drive-In and Push BackHigh-density storage with efficient space utilization.
- Flow Rack and DynamicRecommended for fast product turnover and FIFO operations.
- Cantilever and MezzaninesIdeal for bulky loads and vertical storage.
- Mobile Bases: automated structures which reduce aisles and optimize space.
- Automation Systems: Stacker cranes, Satellite vehicles and industrial conveyors for continuous and integrated operations.
The choice should consider flexibility, costs, security, and the possibility of future automation.
What is the role of automation in material handling?
Automation is the next step for companies seeking high productivity. Systems such as Unit Load and Miniload stacker cranes, combined with industrial conveyors Warehouse management software (WMS) reduces travel, increases accuracy, and optimizes operational costs.
With the Bertolini Technological Center (CTB), Unique in Latin America, the company ensures tested and certified projects, prepared for the most diverse segments such as e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, automotive, food and logistics in general.
Click here to explore more details about automated storage systems..
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about material handling
- What is material handling in logistics?
It is the process of moving, storing, and organizing products within the logistics operation, ensuring efficiency and lower costs. - What equipment is used in material handling?
Forklifts, industrial conveyors, stacker cranes, satellite vehicles and storage structures such as pallet racks and mobile bases. - Why is automation important in material handling?
Because it reduces errors, increases productivity, and ensures real-time traceability, in addition to improving the use of physical space.
- What are the principles of materials handling?
The fundamental principles are: Planning, Standardization, Efficiency, Ergonomics/Safety, Unitization, Space Utilization, System Integration, Automation.
Integrated and intelligent intralogistics for material handling.
THE material handling It is a decisive factor for the competitiveness of companies in any sector. Solid planning, combined with appropriate structures and automation solutions, ensures cost reduction, agility, and security.
Bertolini Storage Systems offers integrated solutions to transform your company's intralogistics, combining innovation, reliability, and a real impact on results.
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