![[Buying Guide] How to Choose the Right AMR?](/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/AMR-1000x625.jpg)
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are revolutionizing logistics, warehousing, and manufacturing operations by automating material transport safely and efficiently. Choosing the right AMR is not just about technology: it’s about matching the robot to your operational needs, navigation environment, payload requirements, and integration with existing systems. This guide helps you identify the most suitable AMR for your business.
An Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) is a type of robot designed to navigate and operate independently within dynamic environments without requiring fixed paths or direct human control.
Unlike traditional automated guided vehicles (AGVs), which rely on tracks, wires, or predefined routes, AMRs use advanced sensors, cameras, and algorithms to perceive their surroundings, avoid obstacles, and plan optimal paths in real time.
They are commonly used in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers to transport materials, streamline workflows, and increase operational efficiency while working safely alongside humans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an AMR?
An AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) is a robot capable of navigating and operating independently in dynamic environments. Using sensors, cameras, and advanced algorithms, it detects obstacles, plans optimal paths, and transports goods or materials without human intervention. AMRs are widely used in warehouses, manufacturing, and logistics to improve efficiency and safety.
How is an AMR different from an AGV?
Unlike Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) that follow fixed paths such as magnetic strips or tracks, AMRs are fully autonomous. They can navigate around obstacles, adjust routes in real time, and work in dynamic environments without pre-installed infrastructure, offering greater flexibility and scalability.
What tasks can AMRs perform?
AMRs are commonly used for transporting pallets, bins, or small items within warehouses, factories, and distribution centers. They can also handle sorting, picking, and delivery tasks, reducing manual labor, improving throughput, and ensuring consistent operational efficiency.
How do I choose the right AMR for my operation?
Consider the type of material you need to transport, load capacity, operational environment, navigation requirements, fleet size, software integration, and safety standards. Evaluate battery life, charging options, and scalability for future growth to ensure the AMR meets both current and future needs.
Are AMRs safe to work alongside humans?
Yes. Most modern AMRs are equipped with lidar, cameras, and safety sensors to detect and avoid obstacles, including people. They comply with industrial safety standards, allowing them to operate safely in shared workspaces without compromising human safety.
What software integration is required for AMRs?
AMRs often integrate with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, or fleet management platforms. Proper integration ensures optimized routing, real-time monitoring, and coordination between multiple robots for maximum efficiency.
Autonomous Mobile Robots – Quick Comparison
| Model / Brand | Main Strengths | Payload / Capacity | Navigation & Safety Features | Typical Use / Environment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TUG (Aethon) | Highly customizable, proven reliability, integrates with hospital logistics | Up to 450 kg | Lidar, obstacle avoidance, floor mapping | Hospitals, laboratories, warehouses |
| MiR100 / MiR500 (Mobile Industrial Robots) | Flexible fleet management, scalable, fast deployment | 100–500 kg depending on model | Lidar, SLAM navigation, human detection sensors | Manufacturing, warehouse automation, material transport |
| OTTO 1500 (Clearpath Robotics) | Heavy-duty, robust design, modular platforms | Up to 1500 kg | Lidar, 3D vision, emergency stop, safety-rated sensors | Automotive factories, logistics hubs, production floors |
| Keenon Robotics T10 | Compact, cost-effective, easy integration with enterprise systems | 50 kg | Lidar + cameras, collision avoidance, path planning software | Restaurants, hotels, light industrial transport |
| KMP 1500P (KUKA) | High payload, robust for production logistics, scalable fleet integration | 1500 kg | Lidar, 3D cameras, SLAM navigation, safety-rated sensors | Automotive, heavy manufacturing, warehouse logistics |
Checklist: Key Considerations Before Buying an AMR
- Define operational needs: load type, weight, frequency, environment.
- Assess navigation requirements: dynamic environment vs fixed paths.
- Check payload capacity and size compatibility with your workspace.
- Evaluate safety features: lidar, cameras, emergency stops, human detection.
- Ensure software integration: WMS, ERP, fleet management platforms.
- Consider fleet scalability and future expansion needs.
- Check battery life, charging options, and maintenance requirements.
- Review vendor support, warranty, and deployment assistance.
What Experts Told Us
To better understand the practical applications and future trends of AMRs, we consulted leading industry experts.
These pioneers share firsthand insights on how autonomous mobile robots are reshaping logistics, manufacturing, and warehouse management, offering unique perspectives on design, integration, and operational efficiency. Their experience provides valuable guidance for companies looking to adopt or optimize AMR technology.
— Josip Ćesić, co‑founder and CEO of robotics company Gideon
— Sheldon Zimmerman, Director of the Automotive Team at Otto Motors
Our List of AMRs
In 2024, we went to Global Industrie Paris, where we discovered a fascinating lineup of new autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). From nimble logistics assistants to collaborative humanoids, these innovations are already transforming the way factories and warehouses operate.
In this article, we share our hand-picked selection of the most exciting AMRs, highlighting their capabilities, practical applications, and the ways they could boost efficiency on the shop floor.
