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observers caution that overall costs can be very high,
because end-users must consider the costs of the entire
“package,” not just the new equipment. If automation
makes sense but cost is a concern, using partially automated
equipment or implementing in a limited area where automation will have the greatest benefit are options.
b Operating speed and efficiency. According to one OEM
executive, who spoke off the record, automated forklifts
are too slow and regimented for the fast pace and frequent
pivots necessary in many DCs today. There’s also potential
for traffic congestion if the travel speeds, number of trucks,
and traffic patterns aren’t calibrated perfectly. Furthermore,
the ANSI/ITDSF B56.5 safety standard for AGVs applies to
robotic forklifts. That means they require a larger “envelope”
of operating clearance than human-operated forklifts do,
says another executive, who also spoke off the record. In a
dense operating environment, smaller forklifts may be needed to maintain the minimum required clearance, he says.
b Equipment adaptability. Kenco’s Montgomery recom-
mends thinking about automated forklifts’ “conversion
also suggests considering whether the forklifts can adapt to
dynamic physical environments and product profiles.
