Glossary: AGV - Automated Guided Vehicle

An Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) is a mobile vehicle that transports materials, products, or other loads along fixed, predefined routes within a factory, warehouse, distribution center, or other industrial facility. AGVs can use technologies such as magnetic tape, wires, reflectors, floor markers, digital guidance, or other fixed navigation methods to follow their routes.

The key distinction between an AGV and an Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) is how the vehicle navigates. An AGV generally follows an established path and may stop or wait when an obstacle blocks its route. An AMR, by contrast, uses onboard sensors, mapping, and software to dynamically plan and reroute its path.

AGVs are commonly used for repetitive material-transport applications where routes and workflows are relatively predictable.

Common Applications of AGVs include:

• Raw Material Handling: Transporting raw materials like paper, steel, rubber, metal, and plastic from receiving areas to storage or production lines.
• Work-in-Process Movement: Moving semi-finished products between different stages of manufacturing processes.
• Pallet Handling: Transferring palletized goods from production lines to storage or shipping areas.
• Finished Product Handling: Moving completed products to storage or directly to shipping docks.
• Trailer Loading: Automatically loading products into trailers for outbound shipping, enhancing efficiency and reducing manual labor.
• Roll Handling: Transporting large rolls, such as paper or steel coils, within manufacturing facilities.
• Container Handling: Moving shipping containers in port terminals, aiding in efficient loading and unloading of cargo ships.

Related terms: AMR, Fleet Management, Mobile Robot, AS/RS, WES