Material handling equipment (MHE) is at the core of modern industrial and logistics operations. In a rapidly developing country like India, efficient handling, storage, and transportation of materials are vital for the growth of manufacturing, warehousing, and e-commerce sectors. This article explores the different types of material handling equipment in India, their benefits, top manufacturers, and how they contribute to increased productivity and workplace safety.
What is Material Handling Equipment (MHE)?
Material handling equipment refers to mechanical and automated systems designed for the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products throughout manufacturing, distribution, consumption, and disposal.
MHE is used in:
- Warehouses and distribution centers
- Manufacturing plants
- Construction sites
- Airports and seaports
- Logistics and transport companies
Types of Material Handling Equipment in India
India’s growing industrial sector has spurred demand for a variety of material handling equipment. Here are the main categories:
1. Storage and Handling Equipment
These include non-automated systems used to store or hold materials temporarily.
- Racks: Pallet racks, cantilever racks
- Shelving units: Adjustable and modular
- Bins and drawers
- Mezzanines
2. Industrial Trucks
Used for movement of materials within facilities.
- Forklifts
- Hand trucks and pallet jacks
- Order pickers
- Tow tractors
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
3. Bulk Material Handling Equipment
Designed to handle large volumes of loose materials such as grains, coal, sand, or minerals.
- Conveyor belts
- Stackers and reclaimers
- Bucket elevators
- Silos and hoppers
4. Engineered Systems
Automated systems for efficient material flow.
- Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS)
- Robotic delivery systems
- Automated conveyors
- Overhead hoists and cranes
Benefits of Using Material Handling Equipment
Efficient use of material handling systems provides several advantages:
1. Improved Productivity
Automation and mechanization reduce the time required to move materials, allowing workers to focus on higher-value tasks.
2. Enhanced Safety
Using proper equipment reduces the risk of manual handling injuries such as sprains, strains, or back injuries.
3. Cost Efficiency
By minimizing product damage, labor costs, and operational downtime, businesses see a significant reduction in overhead costs.
4. Space Optimization
Proper storage systems maximize space utilization in warehouses and facilities.
5. Scalability
Scalable systems support business growth without massive infrastructure changes.
Material Handling Equipment Market in India: An Overview
India’s MHE market is poised for significant growth, driven by rapid industrialization, the boom in e-commerce, and government initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. The logistics sector alone is projected to reach USD 500 billion by 2025, which will further drive the demand for high-quality material handling solutions.
Key trends shaping the Indian MHE market:
- Automation and Industry 4.0
- Warehouse modernization
- Growth in cold storage and pharma logistics
- Increased use of robotics and AI
Top Material Handling Equipment Manufacturers in India
Here are some of the leading MHE companies in India:
1. Godrej Material Handling
One of the oldest players in the Indian market, offering forklifts, stackers, and customized solutions.
2. Voltas Material Handling (KION Group)
Specializes in electric forklifts, diesel trucks, and automated systems.
3. Macpower CNC Machines Ltd
Known for high-performance pallet trucks and lifting platforms.
4. Maini Materials Movement
Offers a wide range of battery-operated equipment for warehouses and factories.
5. Toyota Material Handling India
Provides top-tier forklifts, reach trucks, and AGVs with a focus on efficiency and sustainability.
6. Ascendix MHE
A rising name in the industry offering end-to-end solutions in racking systems, conveyors, and custom MHE setups tailored for Indian warehouses.
Choosing the Right Material Handling Equipment in India
When selecting MHE for your facility, consider the following factors:
1. Nature of Materials
Are you handling pallets, bulk goods, liquids, or irregular shapes?
2. Volume and Frequency
Higher volumes and frequency call for automated or semi-automated systems.
3. Space Constraints
For tight warehouse spaces, vertical storage solutions like mezzanines or compact stackers are ideal.
4. Budget
While initial costs may seem high, long-term ROI is significant due to reduced operational costs.
5. Compliance
Ensure the equipment complies with safety standards and industrial certifications in India.
Applications of Material Handling Equipment in Key Sectors
1. Warehousing & Logistics
- Use of forklifts, pallet jacks, and racking systems for order fulfillment.
- AGVs and conveyors streamline e-commerce operations.
2. Manufacturing
- Cranes, hoists, and conveyors assist in assembly lines.
- Automated storage helps in just-in-time manufacturing.
3. Construction
- Bulk material systems and lifts reduce manual labor and enhance site productivity.
4. Pharmaceuticals
- Cleanroom-friendly MHE ensures contamination-free storage and transfer.
5. Retail & FMCG
- Quick movement of SKUs is essential for inventory turnover in retail warehouses.
Future of Material Handling Equipment in India
India is transitioning towards smart warehouses, and the integration of IoT, AI, and robotics is revolutionizing material handling.
Future trends include:
- Predictive maintenance using sensors
- Energy-efficient electric forklifts
- Cloud-connected MHE for real-time monitoring
- Collaborative robots (cobots) for warehousing tasks
Conclusion
Material handling equipment is a crucial pillar of India’s industrial and logistics infrastructure. As demand surges across sectors like e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, the need for efficient, automated, and reliable MHE is more critical than ever.
By understanding your operational requirements and choosing the right solutions from leading Indian suppliers, you can greatly improve efficiency, safety, and scalability.
Whether you run a warehouse, a manufacturing unit, or a retail distribution center, investing in the right material handling equipment in India is key to long-term success.
