While there is no way to determine the origin of material handling as a concept, the industry of material handling goes hand-in-hand with commercial trade. As long as trade has been occurring, there has been a need to somehow handle the goods being exchanged. It is the movement, protection, storage and control of materials and products throughout the process of their manufacture and distribution, consumption and disposal.

The material handling sector has grown increasingly competitive over recent years due to worldwide competition, excess capacity and eroding profit margins. To thrive in the current conditions, today’s material handling businesses need to minimize staff and equipment downtime to stay lean and competitive. Material handling equipment is the mechanical equipment involved in the complete system. Material handling equipment is used to increase output, control costs, and maximize productivity