What does materials handling encompass?

Materials handling encompasses the comprehensive processes involved in the movement, protection, and control of stored items. This includes not just the relocation of items from one place to another within a facility, but also ensuring that these items are stored securely and managed effectively to meet operational needs.

This concept is critical for efficient supply chain management and includes various activities such as loading, unloading, transporting, and storing goods within a warehouse or distribution center. It plays a vital role in maintaining inventory accuracy, optimizing space utilization, and enabling timely access to materials when required for production or sales.

Understanding materials handling as a multifaceted system allows organizations to improve workflow, reduce costs, and enhance service levels by ensuring that materials are handled safely and efficiently throughout their lifecycle.