Global Material Handling Equipment Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

The global material handling equipment market is segmented based on product, equipment type, industry, and geography. By product, the market is categorized into Cranes & Lifting Equipment and Racking & Storage Equipment. Cranes and lifting equipment play a crucial role in industries requiring heavy lifting, such as construction, shipping, and warehousing. Meanwhile, racking and storage equipment contribute to efficient space utilization in warehouses and retail centers, driven by the growth of e-commerce and logistics industries. The increasing adoption of automated storage solutions further enhances the demand for these products.

By equipment type, the market is segmented into Transport Equipment, Positioning Equipment, Storage Equipment, and Others. Transport equipment, including conveyors, forklifts, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), is essential for the seamless movement of goods within manufacturing and logistics hubs. Positioning equipment, such as hoists and robotic arms, enhances precision in material handling, reducing human effort and increasing efficiency. Storage equipment, including shelving systems and automated warehouses, is witnessing a surge in adoption due to the rising need for space optimization and inventory management in warehouses and distribution centers.

In terms of industry segmentation, the Consumer Goods & Electronics, Automotive, and Food & Beverages sectors are among the key adopters of material handling equipment. The consumer goods and electronics industry benefits from automated warehousing and sorting systems to manage high-volume inventory efficiently. The automotive sector relies on lifting equipment and automated transport systems to streamline production and logistics processes. Meanwhile, the food and beverage industry requires specialized material handling solutions for perishable goods, ensuring efficient cold storage and supply chain management to maintain product quality and safety.

Geographically, the market spans North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America. Asia Pacific dominates the market due to rapid industrialization, growing e-commerce penetration, and increased investments in logistics and automation, particularly in countries like China and India. North America and Europe follow closely, driven by technological advancements and stringent regulations promoting workplace safety and efficiency. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are emerging markets, with increasing infrastructure development and industrial expansion fueling demand for advanced material handling solutions.

Global Material Handling Equipment Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Material Handling Equipment Market has been segmented by Product and Geography.

Global Material Handling Equipment Market, Segmentation by Product

The Global Material Handling Equipment Market has been segmented by Product into Cranes & Lifting Equipment, and Racking & Storage Equipment.

Cranes & Lifting Equipment comprise a diverse range of machinery designed for lifting, moving, and positioning heavy loads in industrial settings. This category encompasses various types of cranes such as overhead cranes, gantry cranes, tower cranes, and jib cranes, each offering unique capabilities and applications. Lifting equipment, including hoists, lifts, and winches, complements crane systems, providing additional lifting and handling functionalities. These solutions play a critical role in construction, manufacturing, and logistics operations, facilitating efficient material movement, assembly, and loading/unloading processes.

Racking & Storage Equipment focuses on solutions dedicated to organizing, storing, and retrieving goods within warehouses, distribution centers, and industrial facilities. This category includes pallet racks, shelving systems, mezzanine floors, and storage containers, designed to maximize storage space, optimize inventory management, and enhance accessibility. By efficiently utilizing vertical space and implementing systematic storage solutions, businesses can streamline inventory handling, minimize clutter, and improve operational efficiency.

Global Material Handling Equipment Market, Segmentation by Equipment Type

The Global Material Handling Equipment Market has been segmented by Equipment Type into Transport Equipment, Positioning Equipment, Storage Equipment, and Others.

The Global Material Handling Equipment Market is segmented by Equipment Type into Transport Equipment, Positioning Equipment, Storage Equipment, and Others, each catering to different aspects of material movement and management in industries. Transport Equipment includes conveyors, cranes, industrial trucks, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), which are used to move materials across short or long distances within warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers. The increasing adoption of automation in logistics and e-commerce has driven the demand for AGVs and robotic transport systems, enhancing efficiency and reducing human intervention.

Positioning Equipment focuses on handling materials at a specific location to improve accuracy and productivity. This segment includes hoists, lifts, turntables, and manipulators, which help in aligning, orienting, or placing materials accurately in production lines or storage systems. With the rise in manufacturing automation and the need for ergonomic workplace solutions, demand for positioning equipment has grown significantly, particularly in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics. The integration of sensors and IoT-enabled controls further enhances precision and safety in these applications.

The Storage Equipment segment comprises racking systems, shelving, pallets, and automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) that optimize warehouse space and streamline inventory management. Growing warehousing needs, particularly in retail, e-commerce, and third-party logistics (3PL), have fueled the demand for efficient storage solutions. Lastly, the Others category includes miscellaneous material handling tools and accessories that do not fit into the primary segments but play a crucial role in various industries. With the increasing focus on smart warehouses and supply chain optimization, innovations in material handling equipment continue to shape the market landscape.

Global Material Handling Equipment Market, Segmentation by Industry

The Global Material Handling Equipment Market has been segmented by Industry into Consumer Goods & Electronics, Automotive, and Food & Beverages.

The Consumer Goods & Electronics segment plays a crucial role in the global material handling equipment market, driven by the increasing demand for efficient logistics and automation solutions. With the rise of e-commerce and omnichannel retailing, companies require advanced material handling systems to ensure seamless inventory management and faster order fulfillment. Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), conveyor belts, and robotic picking systems are extensively used in warehouses and distribution centers to enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, the need for safe handling of fragile electronic products has led to the adoption of precision-oriented material handling solutions, boosting the segment's growth.

The Automotive segment significantly contributes to the market, propelled by advancements in manufacturing and the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies. Automotive manufacturers and suppliers rely on material handling equipment such as automated guided vehicles (AGVs), forklifts, and overhead cranes to streamline production lines and manage heavy components with precision. The increasing shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) and the complexity of automotive supply chains necessitate efficient handling and storage solutions to maintain productivity and reduce operational costs. Moreover, the growing trend of smart factories and lean manufacturing has intensified the demand for robotics and automation in automotive material handling processes.

The Food & Beverages segment benefits from the rising need for hygiene, efficiency, and compliance with food safety regulations. Material handling equipment in this industry must adhere to strict sanitation standards, leading to the widespread use of stainless steel conveyors, automated packaging systems, and palletizing robots. The perishable nature of food products necessitates efficient cold storage handling and temperature-controlled transportation solutions. Additionally, the increasing preference for packaged and processed food, driven by urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles, has accelerated the adoption of automated material handling systems in food production and distribution facilities.

Global Material Handling Equipment Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Material Handling Equipment Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Material Handling Equipment Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America, as a mature market, showcases steady demand for material handling equipment driven by robust industrial infrastructure, technological advancements, and stringent regulations governing workplace safety and efficiency. Europe, similarly, represents a mature market characterized by a strong emphasis on sustainability, automation, and innovation in material handling solutions. The region's focus on eco-friendly practices and digitalization fuels the adoption of advanced equipment and systems.

Asia Pacific emerges as a pivotal region in the global material handling equipment landscape, propelled by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and infrastructure development. The region's burgeoning manufacturing sector, coupled with increasing investments in logistics and warehousing infrastructure, drives substantial demand for material handling equipment. Moreover, the presence of key manufacturing hubs and the rise of e-commerce platforms contribute to the region's significant market growth potential.

In the Middle East and Africa, economic diversification initiatives, infrastructure development projects, and investments in logistics infrastructure stimulate demand for material handling equipment. The region's strategic location as a global trade hub further amplifies the need for efficient handling and transportation of goods, fostering market growth opportunities.

Latin America exhibits promising growth prospects driven by expanding industrial sectors, urbanization trends, and increasing investments in logistics and supply chain infrastructure. Government initiatives aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and improving connectivity further boost demand for material handling equipment across the region.