Internal transport
The movement of raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods within a single industrial or warehouse facility.
Detailed definition & explanation
Internal transport (also called material handling or intralogistics) encompasses all processes related to moving goods within the boundaries of a facility. It integrates receiving, storage, production, and shipping, using a wide range of auxiliary handling equipment.
The intralogistics infrastructure ranges from simple manual equipment (such as hand pallet jacks) to complex automated systems, including roller and belt conveyors, vertical lifts, and driverless vehicles (AGVs/AMRs) capable of autonomous navigation.
Applications and Role in B2B Processes
- •Transporting raw materials from receiving docks to manufacturing lines
- •Transferring picked orders to packing and consolidation zones
- •Automatic handling of pallets on multi-tier mezzanines using vertical lifts
- •Cross-docking and pallet staging in dock areas
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and traditional AGVs?
AMRs navigate independently using built-in maps and sensors, allowing them to dynamically bypass obstacles. Traditional AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) follow pre-defined tracks (like magnetic tape) and stop in front of obstacles until they are removed.
What are the primary benefits of automating internal material transport?
Automation enables a continuous 24/7 material flow, eliminates human error, significantly reduces workplace accidents, and lowers operational costs associated with manual material handling.