How Quickly Can Unexpected Racking Trouble Happen With AGVs?
Advancements in technology frequently render older items no longer necessary. Must of have seen that with 8-tracks, Betamax, and landline telephones. Currently, warehouse installations are experiencing this phenomenon.
Our Warehouse racks were made for people and forklift trucks, not these automated guided vehicles (AGVs). As more warehouses use AGVs, they're finding it hard to make them work with old racks. Old racks often aren't spaced or laid out precisely enough for AGVs . Forklifts can handle uneven rows and spaces, but AGVs need everything to be consistent.
AGVs require unobstructed pathways and designated pick-up locations. Previous shelves were not constructed with this in consideration. AGVs may encounter obstacles, cause harm to products, or experience malfunctions while utilizing these shelves. This hinders productivity and results in expenses to address.
Ancient shelves are frequently constructed from materials that are not compatible with AGVs. They could have bulky or irregularly shaped supports that are easy for forklifts to navigate around, but difficult for AGVs. Adapting outdated racks for AGV use can be both costly and labor-intensive.
Another issue that is of concern is safety. Individuals have the ability to adapt to slightly tilted pallets or uneven racks, whereas automated guided vehicles (AGVs) do not have this capability. If surfaces are not completely flat, AGVs may struggle to transport items without risks. Using AGVs becomes more challenging and poses potential safety risks.
Finally, the cost of updating or replacing old racks for AGVs is high. Although AGVs can be cost-effective in the long run, the initial expense for implementation is substantial. Warehouse managers must determine if the investment is worthwhile.
In brief, it is difficult to use AGVs with old warehouse racks. Outdated shelves are not accurate or consistent, they are constructed from different materials, they do not have essential safety elements, and they are costly to renew. Warehouses considering the implementation of AGVs should carefully consider these factors prior to making any modifications.
We would enjoy hearing from you; let’s start a dialog!
For more information, insights, or conversations regarding your forklift or material handling needs. You can visit our online contact form, call us at 763-425-9066, or email [email protected] . We are also on Twitter, @ToyotaEquipment or @KyleThill on X/Twitter. And now BlueSky @toyotaforklift.bsky.social
We would welcome the opportunity to address your material handling questions or concerns. Toyota Lift of Minnesota works extremely hard to be your partner and material handling consultant. Remember this: "you have a guy" in the forklift and material handling businesses.
Are you located outside of Minnesota or Wisconsin? Find your local authorized Toyota Forklift Dealer through their dealer locator .
If you enjoyed this post, I’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread by emailing it to a friend, or sharing it on X (Twitter) or Facebook .
Did our post generate any ideas for you? What are your thoughts or plans? What are your next steps? Give us some insights [or feedback] through comments! Thank you!
Kyle Thill - How Quickly Can Unexpected Racking Trouble Happen With AGVs?