Question 1

What are AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) in a warehouse?

Accepted Answer

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are robots that navigate a warehouse using sensors and mapping software to move items such as totes, cartons or pallets. Unlike fixed automation, AMRs can adapt routes in real time and work in dynamic environments alongside people.

Question 2

What is the difference between AMRs and AGVs?

Accepted Answer

AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) typically follow fixed routes using guides such as magnetic tape or reflectors. AMRs use onboard sensing and mapping to navigate more flexibly, avoid obstacles and reroute dynamically, which usually makes them better suited to changing warehouse layouts.

Question 3

What warehouse tasks can AMRs automate?

Accepted Answer

AMRs can automate travel-heavy tasks such as tote or carton transport, replenishment moves, putaway support, transfers between zones, and delivery of picked items to packing or shipping. They are commonly used to reduce walking time and improve throughput.

Question 4

Do AMRs replace warehouse staff?

Accepted Answer

Most AMR deployments are designed to support people rather than replace them. AMRs typically remove repetitive travel and transport tasks so operators can focus on higher value activities like picking, packing, quality checks and exception handling.

Question 5

How do AMRs improve picking productivity?

Accepted Answer

AMRs improve productivity by reducing travel time, smoothing workflow between zones and stations, and helping maintain a steady supply of work to operators. In many operations, the biggest gain comes from cutting non-value-added walking and waiting time.

Question 6

Can AMRs integrate with our WMS and ERP systems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. AMRs are typically integrated with warehouse systems through APIs or middleware so tasks like transport missions, inventory moves and status updates can be triggered automatically. Integration with WMS/ERP improves real-time visibility and operational control.

Question 7

Do we need to change our warehouse layout to use AMRs?

Accepted Answer

Usually not. AMRs are often selected because they can be deployed with minimal infrastructure changes. Some adjustments may be recommended, such as defining safe travel lanes, improving floor markings and ensuring clear access at pickup/drop points.

Question 8

How safe are AMRs to operate around people?

Accepted Answer

AMRs are designed to operate safely around people using sensors and collision avoidance. A proper deployment includes risk assessment, speed zoning, safe operating procedures and site testing to ensure the solution fits the environment.

Question 9

How long does it take to deploy AMRs in a warehouse?

Accepted Answer

Deployment time varies by scope, but AMR projects are often faster than fixed automation because they require less physical infrastructure. Typical stages include site assessment, integration design, configuration, testing and phased go-live.

Question 10

What is a typical ROI for AMRs and warehouse robots?

Accepted Answer

ROI depends on labour costs, travel time, volume and accuracy requirements. Many operations evaluate ROI based on reduced walking, improved throughput, reduced error rates and the ability to scale without adding proportionate headcount.

Question 11

How many AMRs do we need?

Accepted Answer

Fleet size depends on required transport missions per hour, distances, charging strategy, dwell times at pickup/drop points, and peak demand. A sizing model or simulation is typically used to estimate the number of robots needed for your throughput targets.

Question 12

Can AMRs work with conveyors and sortation systems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many modern warehouses run hybrid automation where AMRs feed conveyors, buffer zones or sortation systems. Integration and process design ensure smooth handoffs, reduce bottlenecks and maintain accurate tracking.

Question 13

What is the difference between goods-to-person and AMR-assisted picking?

Accepted Answer

Goods-to-person typically brings inventory to a fixed workstation, often using robots or shuttle systems, reducing walking dramatically. AMR-assisted picking can include goods-to-person or can support operators by moving totes/cartons between zones, pick faces and packing areas.

Question 14

Do AMRs require QR codes or markers on the floor?

Accepted Answer

Some AMR systems use floor markers or QR codes, while others rely primarily on natural feature navigation using sensors. The right approach depends on the robot platform, accuracy requirements and the environment.

Question 15

What maintenance and support do AMR systems need?

Accepted Answer

AMR systems typically require routine checks, battery and charging management, software updates and monitoring of fleet performance. Support models often include remote monitoring, on-site service options and continuous optimisation of routes and task allocation.

Question 16

Can AMRs support tote and container tracking?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When integrated with your WMS and scanning workflows, AMRs can support tote/container moves with full traceability, including pickup confirmation, drop confirmation and real-time location updates.

Question 17

What information do you need to assess an AMR project?

Accepted Answer

A good assessment typically includes order and line volumes, SKU profile, pick/putaway processes, travel distances, shift patterns, peak volumes, and any existing systems (WMS, ERP, automation). This enables realistic ROI modelling and fleet sizing.

AMRs and Robots

Warehouse AMRs & Autonomous Robot Systems UK Flexible Robotics Automation

Warehouse AMRs & Robot Systems UK | Flexible Robotics Automation

Frequently Asked Questions About Warehouse AMRs