Discover how today’s lift trucks and batteries are revolutionizing the way companies operate for tomorrow.

Self-driving forklifts, blockchain technology, ergonomic designs, virtual reality and lithium-ion batteries are all components of today’s material handling equipment. But, it’s these machine’s ability to handle multiple SKUs at a faster pace that make them ideal for tomorrow’s ever-changing environment.

This special report uncovers the trends and innovation driving the future of lift trucks and battery chargers.

Technology trends drive industry forward

Recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionizing the way warehouses operate.

“For many warehouse executives, AI is an important technology to consider because it will allow for the automation of tasks within the warehouse,” says Jim Gaskell, director of global technology and business development for Crown Equipment Corp., New Bremen, Ohio. “One type of AI called machine learning explores ways to enable computer programs to improve their output based on learning from data inputs. Consider how this could be applied to equipment utilization. The input data would be available data that could impact equipment requirements.”

Another trend set to impact supply chains is blockchain technology.

“Given the ease with which blockchain can be updated and the security it offers, imagine how useful this could be for traceability initiatives that require record of each step a product takes in the supply chain?” says Shelley Bell, industry marketing manager for Yale Materials Handling Corp., Greenville, N.C.

Other trends include operations management programs that drive efficiency at every level.

“Focusing on efficiency targets for vehicle power systems and power sources will enable significant gains,” says Lynda Stephens, senior manager, information solutions, EnerSys, Reading, Pa. “All of this will be made possible by integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) with electric vehicle, battery and charger analytics and reporting technologies under development today.”

And, as e-commerce continues to grow, cold storage warehouses are building up, not out, to maximize space of existing buildings, according to Susan Comfort, product manager, narrow aisle products, The Raymond Corp., Greene, N.Y.

Read the entire article in RefrigeratedFrozenFood.com here.