November 2010

A material handling device where products are attached to device by creating a vacuum allowing product to be raised, lowered or manipulated.

A type of AS/RS designed to handle pallet loads or any other type of larger, heavier load.  Loads are usually over 750#.

The process of applying a load evenly over a shelf or rack level.  Storage systems are generally designed to support an even load and not point loading.  If point loading is required, engineering may be required.

An outsourced company hired to oversee some level of the supply chain.  A 3PL is independent from the company and handles logistics and often times warehousing of customer’s product.  3PL’s are experts in their field and are often contracted with

A company that analyzes a customer’s needs and designs, installs and implements an improved system utilizing multiple products and manufacturers into a complete “integrated” system.  A systems integrator assumes full financial responsibility of a project to free customer from liability. 

The management process of analyzing the operations, processes, and flows of products and material throughout the supply chain.  The goal of managing the supply chain is to improve efficiencies, productivity and reduce inventory and process costs throughout the entire network

The vertically integrated chain of processes designed to manage product movements completely from inbound into the facility all the way through the outbound process until the product is received at the customers.   Material Handing and Logistics are often used interchangeably

Racks made from hot rolled structural channels, angles or tubes based on AISC standards.

A storage system allowing pallets or other individual products to be stored vertically and increase the cube utilization within a facility.  Also known as rack or pallet rack.

A pallet rack beams with a ledge (or step) in it.  Steps are designed to allow decking to be supported.  The step of the beam can support wire deck, plywood or a 2 x 6 cut to fit inside the