Dictionary Definition

A two-stage approach can be used to work out the best system of materials handling. First, the best or most likely range of units loads of incoming materials is determined: size, weight, frequency etc.. This will enable the equipment to be decided that is necessary to handle them, and the design of the receiving docks. Secondly, the unit loads required by the company's own customers are considered, so that the equipment needed at this end of the materials handling system can be determined. (For example, consider the requirements to fit out a supermarket ... receiving docks and fork lift trucks are necessary to deal with incoming cartons brought in from the retailer's depot, and wire trolleys and trolley parks are needed to deal with the carrying away of customers' weekly groceries to their cars.)