Material handling refers to the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products throughout manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, consumption, and disposal. It involves a wide range of activities and equipment designed to facilitate the efficient and safe handling of goods. Here are key aspects of material handling:

Activities in Material Handling

1. Loading and Unloading: Transferring goods from vehicles or containers to storage areas or production lines and vice versa.
2. Transportation: Moving materials within a facility, which can be done using conveyors, forklifts, trucks, or carts.
3. Storage and Warehousing: Organizing goods in warehouses or storage areas to facilitate easy access and inventory management.
4. Picking and Packing: Selecting specific quantities of goods for orders and preparing them for shipment or production.
5. Sorting and Sequencing: Organizing materials in a specific order or sequence to streamline processes or fulfill orders.

Objectives of Material Handling

• Efficiency: Improve the speed and ease of material movement, reducing processing time and costs.
• Safety: Protect workers and materials from damage or accidents during handling processes.
• Quality Control: Minimize the risk of damage to materials, thus maintaining product quality.
• Inventory Management: Ensure accurate tracking and placement of materials to prevent overstocking or stockouts.

• Manual Tools: Includes items like hand trucks, dollies, and carts for small-scale or short-distance movement.
• Mechanized Equipment: Forklifts, conveyor belts, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are used for large-scale operations.
• Storage Systems: Shelving, racks, bins, and automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) for organizing and holding materials.
• Packaging and Containers: Pallets, crates, and bins holding transport and storage materials.

Becoming a material handler typically involves a combination of education, training, and specific skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a material handler:

1. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED

Most material handler positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. This educational foundation is essential for understanding basic workplace safety, math, and communication skills.

2. Acquire Necessary Skills and Training

Material handlers should have physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic math skills. Training often includes safely operating machinery like forklifts, pallet jacks, and coneyor systems. This training can be obtained through:

• On-the-job training: Many employers provide hands-on training to teach new employees about safe material handling practices, equipment operation, and company-specific procedures.
• Vocational training programs: Some community colleges or vocational schools offer courses or certifications in material handling, logistics, or warehouse operations.

3. Obtain Certifications

While not always mandatory, obtaining certifications can improve job prospects and show competence in the field. For example:

• Forklift certification: Many material handling jobs require operating a forklift or other heavy machinery, and employers and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations often require certification.
• Safety and hazardous materials handling certifications: Depending on the industry, additional certifications related to workplace safety, hazardous materials handling, or specific equipment use may be beneficial.

4. Gain Work Experience

Experience in warehouse, logistics, or related fields can be advantageous. Even entry-level positions in these environments can provide relevant experience and skills development.

5. Advance with Additional Training and Education

For those looking to advance in their careers, further education in logistics, supply chain management, or business administration can open up opportunities for higher-level positions, such as material handling supervisor or logistics manager.

Key Skills for Material Handlers:

• Physical fitness and ability to lift heavy objects
• Familiarity with inventory management software and data entry
• Understanding of safety protocols and procedures
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively