Material Handling Equipment (MHE) encompasses a range of tools, machines,

and vehicles that help in the movement, storage, protection, and control of materials throughout
the supply chain. Efficient material handling improves productivity, safety, and reduces
operational costs. Here’s an in-depth look at the importance, objectives, principles, factors
affecting equipment selection, and types of material handling equipment.

1. Importance of Material Handling Equipment

• Enhanced Efficiency: Reduces handling time, minimises idle time, and optimises workflow,
leading to better productivity.
• Cost Reduction: Streamlines processes, reducing labor costs, and enhancing operational
efficiency.
• Improved Safety: Reduces manual lifting and handling, lowering the risk of accidents and
injuries.
• Product Protection: Proper equipment minimises damage to goods during transport and storage.
• Space Utilisation: Efficient use of storage equipment and systems enables better use of
available space.

2. Objectives of Material Handling Equipment

• Minimise Material Handling Costs: Reduce the costs associated with moving, storing, and
controlling materials.
• Increase Production Efficiency: Streamline material flow and optimise production processes.
• Enhance Worker Safety: Improve workplace safety by reducing manual handling and
automating repetitive tasks.
• Improve Space Utilisation: Make efficient use of available space for storage and movement.
• Optimise Material Flow: Ensure smooth and continuous flow of materials from receiving to
shipping.
• Reduce Lead Time: Minimise the time required for materials to move through different stages
of production.

3. Principles of Material Handling Equipment

• Planning Principle: Planning the entire material handling process to maximise efficiency and
minimise costs.
• System Principle: Treating material handling as an integrated system that considers movement,
storage, control, and protection.
• Space Utilisation Principle: Effective use of all available space, particularly vertical storage, to
minimise clutter and maximise efficiency.
• Standardisation Principle: Using standardised equipment and practices to streamline operations
and reduce training time.
• Ergonomics Principle: Designing systems to reduce strain on workers, improving safety, and
reducing injury risks.
• Automation Principle: Implementing automation where feasible to enhance speed, accuracy,
and reduce labor costs.
• Flexibility Principle: Selecting equipment that can adapt to changes in processes or product
types.
• Life Cycle Cost Principle: Considering the total cost of equipment over its life, including
acquisition, operation, maintenance, and disposal.

• Gravity Principle :Wherever possible, gravity should be used to move materials, as this
minimises the need for powered equipment. For example, using inclined planes or slides can take
advantage of natural forces to reduce energy consumption.

4. Factors Affecting Selection of Material Handling Equipment

• Nature of Material: Characteristics like weight, size, shape, and fragility affect equipment
choice.

• Type of Operation: Specific needs of production, storage, and distribution impact equipment
requirements.

• Distance: The distance materials need to travel influences the type of equipment (e.g.,
conveyors for short distances, trucks for longer).

• Flexibility: Equipment should be adaptable to changes in product or process requirements.

• Cost: Total life cycle cost, including purchase, operation, and maintenance, should be
considered.
• Space Constraints: Available space for storage and movement affects equipment
choice (e.g., forklifts in warehouses).
• Safety Requirements: Safety standards may dictate the type and design of
handling equipment.
• Speed and Efficiency: Desired speed and productivity levels influence equipment
choice (e.g., automation for high-speed requirements).
• Environmental Factors: Temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors
can impact equipment operation and durability.

5. Types of Material Handling Equipment

Material handling equipment is categorised into four major types:

A. Transport Equipment

• Used to move materials from one location to another within a facility or between facilities.
• Examples:
 •Conveyors: Belt, roller, and screw conveyors are used for continuous transport of goods.
• Forklifts: Powered vehicles that lift and move pallets and heavy items.
• Hand Trucks and Trolleys: Manually operated for moving smaller loads.
• Industrial Trucks: Includes pallet jacks, order pickers, and tow tractors.
•Cranes and Hoists: Used for lifting and moving heavy or bulky materials, often vertically.

B. Positioning Equipment

• Used to handle materials at a single location to improve the ergonomics and ease of handling.
• Examples:
• Lift Tables: Adjustable tables that help position materials at a convenient height.
• Rotary Turntables: Allow materials to be rotated, providing easier access during handling.
• Manipulator Arms: Mechanised arms that can handle materials in different orientations.
• Dock Levellers: Bridge the gap between truck beds and loading docks to ease loading/
unloading.

C. Unit Load Formation Equipment

• Equipment that helps form a load so that it can be efficiently handled as a single unit.
• Examples:
• Pallets: Wooden, plastic, or metal platforms used to group and stack materials.
• Skids: Similar to pallets but without bottom boards, often used in warehousing.
• Containers: Bins, crates, and shipping containers for transporting and storing grouped items.
• Intermodal Containers: Large containers that can be easily transferred between modes of
transport (e.g., ship to rail).
• Shrink Wrapping Machines: Used to bundle items together for stability during movement.

D. Storage and Retrieval Equipment

• These systems aid in the efficient storage, retrieval, and movement of materials within a
facility.
•Examples:
•Racks and Shelving: Used to store materials vertically, maximising warehouse space.
•Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS): Computer-controlled systems for
automated storage and retrieval, ideal for high-volume warehouses.
•Bins and Baskets: Used for storing smaller items or components.
•Carousels: Rotating storage units that bring items to the picker.
•Stacker Cranes: Vertical lift machines for high-density storage areas.

Conclusion

Material handling equipment is essential for efficient and safe management of materials within
industrial and commercial settings. Its selection and deployment are influenced by principles,
operational requirements, and facility constraints. Each type of equipment has distinct
applications and benefits, allowing businesses to streamline operations, improve worker safety,
and optimise resource utilisation.