AMRs / AGVs
Autonomous mobile robots and AGVs for internal material transport between cells and warehouse.
Tell us about your process for AMRs / AGVs. If another approach fits your description better, we will say so.
Technology Overview
Autonomous mobile robots and AGVs for internal material transport between cells and warehouse.
Problems It Commonly Solves
- Forklift and cart congestion, WIP delays between warehouse and production, and unpredictable internal logistics.
- Common application: Warehouse tote delivery
- Common application: WIP transport between cells
- Common application: Kitting loops
Suitable Conditions
- Repeatable routes between defined pick and drop points
- WIP buffers benefit from predictable internal delivery
Constraints to Investigate
- Uncontrolled pedestrian/forklift traffic without separation plan
- Loads exceed AMR payload or require special handling
Project Readiness Check
These questions ask whether you already have the information. Answer yes, no, or not sure. A no means information to gather. It does not mean the automation opportunity failed.
1. Do you know the routes, distances, and handoff points?
Why it matters: Routes define the movement problem.
2. Do you know the load size, weight, and how it is picked up today?
Why it matters: Payload and pickup method change the vehicle choice.
3. Do you know the floor, doors, and traffic a vehicle would meet?
Why it matters: Site conditions are part of the scope, not a later detail.
4. Do you know how many moves happen in a typical shift?
Why it matters: Move count is needed before a fleet size means anything.
5. Do you know who would manage charging, exceptions, and map changes?
Why it matters: Operation of the system is part of the project.
Inputs required for preliminary assessment
Checklist of core and supporting inputs for AMRs / AGVs & Internal Material Movement. Copy, print, or save locally; open Studio to attach this Technology to an Automation Project.
Required core inputs
Optional supporting inputs
Evidence to gather
- Facility map with routes and aisles
- Load photos and weights
- Move volume by shift
- Wi-Fi heat map or coverage notes if available
This pathway is an early planning guide. It is not a final feasibility review, engineering design, safety certification, supplier quote, or statement of work.
Main Technical Variables
- Load type and weight
- Travel routes / distances
- Traffic and aisle constraints
- Pick/drop and handoff points
- Move volume / frequency
- Fleet size and charging infrastructure
- Route mapping and traffic zoning
- Pick/drop station hardware
Typical Solution Stack
- AMR/AGV fleet and charging
- Fleet manager and traffic rules
- Pick/drop stations and handoff points
- WMS or MES trigger integration
Required Delivery Roles
- AMR/AGV vendor
- Systems integrator
- WMS/MES liaison
Common Cost Drivers
- Fleet size and charging infrastructure
- Route mapping and traffic zoning
- Pick/drop station hardware
- WMS/MES integration
Cost and schedule usually move with: Fleet size and charging infrastructure; Route mapping and traffic zoning; Pick/drop station hardware; WMS/MES integration. Treat any public ranges as illustrative planning context only. They are not a quote.
Common Project Risks
- Wi-Fi dead zones interrupt fleet coordination.
- Forklift and AMR traffic conflicts without zoning rules.
Site-Readiness Considerations
- Floor condition suitable for AMR navigation
- Wi-Fi or fleet network coverage
- Pedestrian and forklift traffic separation plan
- Validate charging and emergency stop procedures for mixed traffic areas.
Validation Activities
- Route mapping and traffic rules validated
- Charging strategy confirmed under peak moves
- Handoff points defined with manual fallback
Scope to Confirm With Suppliers
- Confirm which equipment, tooling, and software are included in the proposal.
- Confirm whether installation, commissioning, and operator training are included.
- Confirm which utilities, guarding, fixtures, and site work stay with your team.
- Confirm spare parts, documentation, and the support period.
- Confirm how acceptance will be tested before handover.
Example Acceptance Criteria
- Agree the test parts, rate, and quality checks before installation.
- Agree who signs off and what happens if a test is not met.
Questions to Ask Suppliers
- What vehicle type, payload, and fleet size are you assuming?
- How will pickups and drop-offs work with our current racks, carts, or conveyors?
- What floor, door, and traffic conditions does the proposal assume?
- What maps, charging, software, and IT connections are included?
- Who handles installation, traffic rules, and operator training?
- How will we agree and test acceptance criteria on our routes?
Related Automation Use Cases
Related Listed Providers
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Tell us about your process for AMRs / AGVs. If another approach fits your description better, we will say so.