Rising labour costs, recruitment challenges and increasing order volumes are making it harder for warehouses to stay ahead using manual processes alone.
Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) give businesses the flexibility to respond, automating the movement of goods and repetitive tasks while adapting as your warehouse evolves.
Without the need for extensive fixed infrastructure, AMRs provide a practical and scalable way to introduce warehouse automation. The result is a more productive warehouse operation that can grow and evolve alongside your business.
Unlike fixed automation, autonomous warehouse robots are designed to adapt.
They can be redeployed as workflows change, navigate evolving warehouse layouts and scale alongside your business, giving you a flexible automation solution that continues to support your operation as it grows.
Our automation specialists are here to help.
From goods-in through to dispatch, AMRs can support multiple warehouse processes, helping improve efficiency wherever they’re needed most.
Using advanced sensors, AI and real-time mapping technology, they can safely navigate changing warehouse layouts and traffic, making them ideal for applications such as:
Whether you’re looking to improve productivity, support your existing workforce or prepare for future growth, warehouse robotics deliver practical benefits across every stage of your warehouse operation.
Improved Throughput
Automate repetitive transport tasks to keep goods moving efficiently and increase warehouse productivity.
Better Use of Existing Labour
Reduce time spent on manual transport, allowing your team to focus on higher-value activities.
Seamless Integration
Integrate with your existing warehouse management software with minimal disruption.
Enhanced Safety
Advanced sensors and intelligent navigation help AMRs operate safely alongside people and equipment.
Scalable Automation
Expand your warehouse robotics as your business grows without significant infrastructure changes.
What are AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) in a warehouse?
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are intelligent robots that move around a warehouse using onboard sensors and mapping software. They transport totes, cartons or pallets without fixed guide paths, adapting dynamically to the warehouse layout and working safely alongside people.
What is the difference between AMRs and AGVs?
AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) typically follow fixed routes using magnetic tape or reflectors. AMRs navigate more flexibly using sensors and real-time mapping, allowing them to reroute around obstacles and adapt to layout changes. This makes AMRs more suitable for dynamic warehouse environments.
What warehouse tasks can AMRs automate?
AMRs are commonly used to automate travel-heavy tasks such as:
They significantly reduce non-value-added walking time.
Do AMRs replace warehouse staff?
In most UK warehouse deployments, AMRs support staff rather than replace them. They remove repetitive transport tasks so operators can focus on higher-value activities such as picking, packing, quality control and exception management.
How do AMRs improve picking productivity?
AMRs reduce travel time between pick locations and workstations. By keeping operators supplied with work and eliminating unnecessary movement, warehouses often see major productivity improvements without increasing headcount.
Can AMRs integrate with our WMS and ERP systems?
Yes. AMRs are typically integrated via APIs or middleware into warehouse management systems (WMS), ERP platforms and automation software. This enables real-time task allocation, inventory updates and operational visibility.
Do we need to redesign our warehouse to deploy AMRs?
Usually not. AMRs are often selected because they require minimal infrastructure changes. Some layout optimisation may be recommended — such as defining safe travel lanes or pickup/drop points — but major structural changes are rarely necessary.
How safe are AMRs around people?
Modern AMRs are equipped with sensors and obstacle detection systems to operate safely in mixed human environments. A proper deployment includes risk assessment, speed zoning and operational testing to ensure compliance and safety.
How long does it take to deploy AMRs?
Deployment timelines depend on project scope, integration complexity and fleet size. Compared to fixed automation like conveyors, AMRs can often be implemented more quickly due to reduced infrastructure requirements.
What is a typical ROI for warehouse AMRs?
ROI varies based on labour costs, travel distances, order volumes and accuracy improvements. Many UK warehouses evaluate ROI based on labour reduction, productivity gains and scalability without proportionate headcount growth.
How many AMRs would we need?
Fleet sizing depends on:
Simulation or throughput modelling is typically used to determine the correct fleet size.
Can AMRs work alongside conveyors or sortation systems?
Yes. Many warehouses operate hybrid automation environments where AMRs feed conveyors, buffer zones or sortation systems. Proper integration ensures smooth handoffs and real-time tracking.
Every warehouse is different, which is why every robotics solution should be too. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, we take the time to understand your operation, challenges and long-term objectives before recommending the right AMR solution for your warehouse.
From planning and system integration through to implementation, ongoing monitoring and optimisation, our experienced team is on hand to help you maximise the value of your automation investment.
We can provide expert advice and bring our knowledge and experience to your project.
Contact us about your projectKeymas Ltd, Office 3 Wassell Grove Business Centre, Wassell Grove Lane, Hagley, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY9 9JH UK
Keymas Limited is company registered in England and Wales with Company No. 2029255
