Material Handling Glossary | A
Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV)
A self‑driving vehicle that uses guidance technologies such as electromagnetic, optical, or laser‑based navigation to follow predefined paths. AGVs operate autonomously and are equipped with safety sensors and programmable controls to safely transport materials within a facility. AGVs are used to automate repeatable material transports within industrial environments like warehouses and factories.
Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS)
An automated system that stores and retrieves goods from defined storage locations. These systems also are referred to as dynamic storage systems, high density storage and retrieval systems and goods-to-person picking technology.
Automated Warehouse System (AWS)
A guidance system capable of automatically
routing storage and retrieval vehicles to
any position at any bin or rack located in an
automated warehouse.
Automation Integrator
A B2B service that plans, designs, engineers and manages system projects for a distribution facility or warehouse.
Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR)
A self‑navigating robot that uses sensors, cameras, and onboard intelligence to understand its surroundings, safely avoid obstacles, and complete assigned tasks without following fixed paths. Unlike AGVs, AMRs use dynamic path planning to adapt their routes in real time, though the terms are sometimes used interchangeably.